New Death In Paradise detective Don Gilet appeared in huge Hollywood movie with A-lister – before replacing Ralf Little
DEATH in Paradise’s brand new detective Don Gilet has already got a Hollywood movie under his belt before joining the case of the popular BBC show.
The actor, famed for his role as Lucas Johnson in EastEnders, will be taking over from Ralf Little after an intense amount of speculation over who would be landing the coveted role.
Don will likely be all geared up to take on the role having just appeared in a huge Hollywood blockbuster alongside a major A-list name.
The star acted alongside Jason Statham in the action thriller The Beekeeper.
He was forced to adopt an American accent for his role as Deputy Director Prigg in the cinema hit.
It left soap fans open-mouthed when they caught a glimpse of him in the film earlier this year.
The Beekeeper follows a mans campaign for vengeance after it is exposed that he is a former operative of a powerful organisation, named the Beekeepers.
Earlier today, it was revealed that Don would be leading the next series of the BBC hit following Ralf’s departure.
Don will play Detective Inspector Mervin WiIson who arrives in Saint Marie from London.
The actor will be introduced onscreen to fans during Death in Paradise‘s Christmas special this year before the 14th series kicks off in 2025.
Speaking about joining the smash-hit Beeb series, Gilet said: “Being offered the new lead role in Death in Paradise feels like a deeply loved and incredibly precious jewel has been placed in my hands.
“This is a big show, with a big heart and the love continually grows for it. It is my intention to never lose sight of that and to remain grateful, humbled and dedicated.
“Even during those testing times when every sinew is screaming at me to run off the set and dive into the sea, swimming pool or an ice-cold beer – whichever happens to be closer at the time!”
Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, added: “We could not be happier to welcome Don to the series. Already known to BBC viewers from the likes of Sherwood, EastEnders, and Doctor Who, he’s long been one of the UK’s most exciting actors.
“Death in Paradise is in brilliant hands – roll on Christmas!”
Timeline of Death In Paradise Detectives
Death In Paradise started in 2011 and has welcomed four detectives so far to the island.
These are all of the actors who have played the lead detective in the hit BBC series so far:
Ben Miller as DI Richard Poole – Actor Ben played the first ever detective from seasons 1 to 2, and then returned as a guest star in the third and tenth series.
Kris Marshall as DI Humphrey Goodman. Next up My Family star took on the role for three years from series 3 to 6.
Ardal O’Hanlon as DI Jack Mooney. Father Ted star Ardal was a fan favourite and was the detective for three seasons from series 6 to 9.
Ralf Little as DI Neville Parker. The actor started in 2019 and is the longest-running star to have the detective role. He was on the show for four seasons from 9 to 13.