Don Gilet speaks out on impact of BBC Death in Paradise co-star's exit from series: 'Irreplaceable!'

Each episode typically features a seemingly impossible locked-room murder, ending with the detective gathering all suspects to reveal the killer in a style reminiscent of Agatha Christie's Poirot.

Known for its 'cozy mystery' style and tropical setting, it has become a global phenomenon airing in over 230 territories.

Fans were left stunned at the end of series 14 when Selwyn, played by Don Warrington, chose not to return to his post as commissioner following his reinstatement, opting instead to step away after what had been an intensely turbulent period in his life.

While the door has been left open for a potential return, Selwyn’s absence will be keenly felt when the show continues, with cast members revealing just how deeply the character’s departure affects both the team and the wider fictional community of Saint Marie.

Speaking about the commissioner’s exit, Mr Gilet, who plays DI Mervin Wilson, explained how pivotal Selwyn had been to those around him, particularly his own character.

“You see how it impacts the characters, thinking that somebody who has employed them and has been there seemingly forever suddenly goes, ‘well, I’m off, I don’t want to do this anymore’,” Mr Gilet told the BBC.

He went on to describe the unique bond between Mervin and Selwyn, explaining: “Selwyn has been the only one that really gets Mervin from a paternal perspective. He’s the only one that he’s shared his demons and fears with and he’s always a step ahead.”

The actor added that Selwyn’s departure represents a profound shift in the dynamic of the show. “It’s certainly a great loss, that feeling that the person who you can always go to isn’t going to be there anymore,” Mr Gilet said.

“It’s left an emotional hole in the team and it’s going to be interesting for audiences to see how they survive without him.”

Selwyn’s calm authority and dry wit have been a cornerstone of Death in Paradise since its very first episode, making his decision to step away one of the most significant changes the long-running series has ever faced.

And it is not only Mervin who will struggle to adapt.

Shantol Jackson, who plays DS Naomi Thomas, echoed Mr Gilet’s sentiments, describing Selwyn as far more than a boss to the Honoré Police Department.

“Whenever someone leaves, like the previous Inspector, we just have to get on with things, but it’s obviously not the same,” Ms Jackson said.

She continued: “The town itself misses the Commissioner and his energy. There’s certainly a sense of loss – the Commissioner had become more than just a boss to us.”

Ms Jackson went on to describe Selwyn’s role within the team in deeply personal terms, adding: “He was like a friend, sometimes like an uncle, and sometimes even like a father.”

“That wisdom he offered is irreplaceable, he’s left a gap that cannot be filled.”

Viewers last saw Selwyn depart Saint Marie after encouraging Mervin to reconnect with his brother and sharing a touching farewell with Catherine Bordey, a goodbye that deliberately stopped short of finality.

With Mr Warrington recently reprising the role in the Beyond Paradise Christmas special, hope remains among fans that Selwyn could yet return in some capacity.

However, his absence will be strongly felt when Death in Paradise returns for its 2025 Christmas special, which sees Mervin and the team confronted with a baffling locked-room mystery after a stranger is found dead in a Caribbean villa pool, with the murder weapon somehow sealed in a drawer thousands of miles away in Swindon.

Alongside Mr Gilet and Ms Jackson, the festive episode will also star Ginny Holder, Shaquille Ali-Yebuah and Élizabeth Bourgine, with guest appearances from Josie Lawrence, Kate Ashfield and Pearl Mackie.