Death in Paradise’s Don Gilet: ‘I hope I’m not the one that messes it up’

As a movie critic who has been around long enough to witness the evolution of television, I must admit that Death in Paradise never disappoints when it comes to bringing fresh faces into its tropical paradise. The Christmas special this year introduced us to Mervin Wilson played by Don Gilet, and boy, does he fit right in!

In this holiday season, the Death in Paradise Christmas special has been broadcasted, unveiling Detective Mervin Wilson as the new main character, played by Don Gilet.

During the show, it’s clear that Mervin and the team didn’t quite mesh, leaving his future on Saint Marie in question. However, Gilet has mentioned that his behind-the-scenes experience, filled with warm welcomes from cast and crew, couldn’t have been more contrasting. He also expressed optimism regarding his upcoming tenure.

Indeed, it was quite thrilling, since I was viewing it primarily for amusement. Yet, at the same time, my mind was analytically preparing as if I were stepping onto the stage myself.

Experiencing an uncanny sensation, as I’ve only known them from the screen, yet now they’re physically present alongside me, during the script reading session. It feels almost unreal, like saying, “This is odd.

Suddenly, you find yourself on a familiar TV set. It feels as if you’ve won a grand competition in various aspects.

Indeed, there was an undeniable sense of invitation, as if saying “please come and be part of our group,” despite the fact that it’s typically not how Mervin and his team operate. From their perspective, they were incredibly welcoming.

My apprehensions eased when I realized you truly wanted me present. And I found myself thinking, ‘I hope I don’t ruin this,’ because the work done over the past 14 seasons with other detectives has been exceptional, and now it’s my turn to try and match their brilliance.

While speaking about her work with Gilet, Shantol Jackson (who plays Naomi Thomas) mentioned that she’s collaborated with just one other inspector before, namely Ralf Little’s character, Neville Parker.

Initially, when I joined in season 11, I was told that there was an existing camaraderie and harmony within the group, and my task was to seamlessly blend in with this pre-existing team dynamic.

In my thoughts, I’ve been considering how to make the newcomer, whether it’s Don or someone else, feel at ease and self-assured. That’s my primary focus.

I too yearn for a sense of comfort and self-assurance, yet I’m aware that I’m inviting someone into a space, a setting that I’ve grown accustomed to.

Since we’re working as a team, I believe it’s essential for everyone to feel at ease. This way, each member can perform optimally.

The selection process for Mervin’s role on Red Planet was extended as they were meticulous about finding the ideal candidate who would suit Mervin and seamlessly blend into the cast. They certainly succeeded in this endeavor, and upon Don’s arrival, he clicked instantly with the rest of the actors.

Absolutely, it’s natural to feel a bit jittery at first, given that we’re welcoming a stranger into our living space. Similarly, I can understand that he might be apprehensive too, as he’s about to interact with new people and share his life with us for an extended period.

Initially, a tinge of apprehension did surface, but it vanished swiftly, almost instantly. Sharing the set with him made me feel at ease, as I wholeheartedly believed in his competence. I trusted that he would guide me to shine and excel.

Although Mervin seemed destined to depart from Saint Marie at the conclusion of the special, it’s been confirmed that Gilet will indeed appear in the upcoming season, along with Jackson and Darlene Curtis’ co-star, Ginny Holder, who is also expected to make a comeback.

2024-12-24 19:34

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