Death in Paradise newcomer Don Gilet addresses casting of first Black lead
"The roles I go up for, they're not Black parts, they're just parts."
This year's Death in Paradise Christmas special is set to introduce a brand new lead detective, after Ralf Little's Neville departed at the end of the last season.
The special will see Don Gilet join the series as new lead character DI Mervin Wilson, becoming the show's first Black lead, after the drama was previously fronted by Ben Miller, Kris Marshall, Ardal O'Hanlon and Little.
Some critics have previously argued that the detective show perpetuates the 'white saviour' trope, with Black supporting characters relying on a white male lead to solve the crimes.
Now, speaking with the Christmas double-issue of Radio Times magazine, which is on sale from Tuesday 10th December, Gilet has addressed being the show's first Black lead actor.
Gilet said: "There can be superficial ways one can be described and defined. If they were looking for the best actor to take on the mantle, a guy who can do a bit of comedy and a bit of serious, and fuse those together, then I’ll take that.
Read more:
- Death in Paradise's Joséphine Jobert in first look at new detective drama after Florence exit
- Return to Paradise stars react to Death in Paradise cameo in first episode
"The roles I go up for, they’re not Black parts, they’re just parts, and when I don’t get them, it’s because that job wasn’t right for me. I have to say to myself, ‘It’s your job – own it.’ And if your efforts bear fruit, then you have to enjoy that."
The Christmas special will be one of two trips to Paradise this festive season, with spin-off show Beyond Paradise also getting a Christmas outing.
The official synopsis for the Death in Paradise Christmas special says: "We’re back on the beautiful island of Saint Marie, and this time with a new detective inspector in tow. Londoner Mervin Wilson ruffles some feathers as he clashes with the island’s way of life.
By entering your details, you are agreeing to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.
"But he quickly sinks his teeth into one of the team's most puzzling murder cases yet: three men, all unconnected apart from the fact that they’re dressed as Santa Claus, are shot with the exact same gun at the exact same time.
"As Mervin wrangles with this impossible murder, his colleagues struggle with their new boss’s unusual working methods. And Dwayne’s Christmas with his father doesn’t exactly go to plan..."
The Christmas double issue of Radio Times is out on 10th December – order your copy here.
Death in Paradise will air at 8:30pm on Sunday 22nd December on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Season 1-13 are available to stream now on BBC iPlayer.
Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Authors
James Hibbs is a Drama Writer for Radio Times, covering programmes across both streaming platforms and linear channels. He previously worked in PR, first for a B2B agency and subsequently for international TV production company Fremantle. He possesses a BA in English and Theatre Studies and an NCTJ Level 5 Diploma in Journalism.
