As I delve into the life of Adrian Lester, a seasoned actor with an impressive career spanning over three decades, I am struck by his unwavering dedication and resilience. With a rich background that includes breakdancing in the streets of Walsall during the boom years, Lester’s journey to the lead role in Death in Paradise feels like the culmination of a lifetime of hard work and perseverance.
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Pete, it seems like you’re prying into my personal matters,” says Don Gillet, though there’s a hint of caution in his otherwise cheerful tone, as if to say, ‘Three times and that’s enough.’ The question that seemed to trigger this response was simply asking who will be preparing the Christmas dinner at the Gillet residence this year.
It’s refreshing to note that aside from certain aspects, the small-screen veteran appears more enthusiastic about other elements of the upcoming holiday. This Christmas season promises a unique opportunity to witness him portray Detective Inspector Mervin Wilson in an exclusive, full-length episode of Death in Paradise. He steps into the role previously held by Ralf Little as the new chief detective on the picturesque Caribbean island of Saint Marie. Here, puzzling murders seem to arrive with the predictable frequency of Japanese bullet trains.
For the accomplished actor who has graced both “EastEnders” and “Holby City”, there’s no denying his enthusiasm when it comes to this particular project. In fact, he openly admits that he once fantasized about leading the show after guest-starring alongside Kris Marshall in 2015. At the time, he played Andre Morgan, an employee of a slain rum distillery owner. Reflecting on his experience, he shared, “Of course, you can’t help but wonder, ‘How would I do that?’ as you watch Kris deliver the Poirot speech, piecing everything together. It’s a massive amount of information, and as an actor, you aim to reach a point where it’s no longer just memorization, but true character expression.
Despite the fact that every challenging mystery in Saint Marie is always resolved, it’s not much of a surprise that Gilet performs brilliantly as he solves his initial case, unraveling the intricate puzzle of how expat celebrity songwriter Tony Hurst (Steven Hartley), tourist Stuart (Marcus Brigstocke), and unfortunate local Tyrus (Michael Salami) could have all been shot by the same gun simultaneously.
However, unlike the actor who breathes life into him, Mervin Wilson isn’t optimistic about his future on Saint Marie. With Christmas approaching, his plane is ready to depart from the island following a short visit for personal matters. But as a murder case needs solving, an empty DI position and his superior’s stern instructions echo in his mind. This journey turns out to be a turbulent and eventually emotional trip of self-exploration.
One captivating feature of the “changeover” episodes in Death in Paradise lies in observing how the actors and their characters, in unison, acclimate to the scorching heat and brisk rhythm of life on the French Caribbean island of Guadeloupe, where the series is produced.
As a film enthusiast, I concur with your thoughts: this reminds me of what I like to call the “vacation warmth,” where one can decide between basking in the sun or seeking solace under the shade, opting for a refreshing cocktail or a peaceful nap. However, let’s not forget that it’s just another ordinary workday for both Gilet and Mervin, as it is for many of us.
It’s not coincidental that Gilet appears very similar to his character, as his audition with the show’s executive producer, Tim Key, influenced the development of the upcoming series. During this audition, Don Warrington, who plays Commissioner Selwyn Patterson, was also present. This made the moment even more significant for Gilet, who felt compelled to give his best performance since he knew Don was there watching him. As he put it, “If Don is here, taking the time to read with me, I don’t want to be constantly looking at the script. I need to bring my A-game.
It’s often assumed that because of their profession, actors must have large egos. However, one might argue that the audition process, filled with potential exposure and rejection, goes against this notion. Yet, Gilet is not convinced. “Egos do exist,” he remarks, “and they can take you a certain distance. Just like physical attractiveness does. But neither of them got me anywhere significant, which is why I’ve had to wait so long for a major leading role.
I want to make sure the execs don’t regret the choice they’ve made
Despite his attempts to stay calm, moments like these reveal hints of hidden frustration in Gilet, as a prominent role that matches his extensive experience has consistently slipped through his fingers. One single casting choice can catapult you from a celebrated character actor to the leading role in a ratings sensation. However, at 57 years old, it seems Gilet had come to terms with the possibility that it might never occur. Now that he’s unexpectedly in this position, it shapes the attitude he carried during his months on location.
Despite the stunning beauty of Basse-Terre Island in Guadeloupe being just a two-minute stroll from his apartment, Gilet never once ventured into the water. Instead, he prioritized studying the script meticulously to ensure he knew it like the back of his hand, saying, “I figured, ‘No, this is time for study so you can confidently deliver.'” Likewise, if any member of his family – his father, sister, or son from his former relationship with actress Tracy Whitwell – had hoped for an invitation to join him in the sunshine, none was received. Gilet explained that he felt he couldn’t divert energy towards caring for guests, as he wanted to focus solely on ensuring that those who had agreed to work with him wouldn’t regret their decision.
As a movie enthusiast, I’ve noticed some conversations about the series “Death in Paradise” that suggest it continues a pattern known as the “white savior” trope. This means that some viewers feel uncomfortable with the black supporting cast often relying on a white male lead to solve crimes. However, earlier this year, Tim Key acknowledged that the world has evolved significantly since the show began and promised that it will adapt to the times.

Gilet explains, “There are simple ways one might be characterized and categorized.” If they were searching for the ideal actor to play the role, someone capable of both comedy and drama, and blending those aspects seamlessly, I’d be their pick. The roles I audition for aren’t exclusively for black actors; they’re just roles. When I don’t land them, it’s because the position wasn’t suitable for me. I have to remind myself, ‘It’s your role – claim it.’ And if your hard work pays off, then savor that success.
At Christmas time, that’s precisely what Gilet plans to do. Just thinking about driving from London to Walsall, where he was raised, noticeably soothes him. The actor’s teenage years happened during the breakdancing craze. He shares that you might have run into the young Gilet and his friends – or as they called themselves, the Rock Sonic Crew – practicing their top rocks, crab freezes, and coffee grinders on Caldmore Green’s freshly paved urban landscape.
It appears he’s becoming more relaxed. I’m ready to take the risk. So, who will be preparing the Christmas dinner this year? “Well, alright if you insist, here’s the scoop. I’ll be handling the sprouts, following a Gordon Ramsay recipe that includes bacon and chestnuts. People often overlook sprouts, but they deserve some thoughtful preparation. It’s their time to shine at Christmas, and we can’t afford to mess it up.
The delivery is deadpan. As for the symbolism, it’s unclear whether it was intended. But either way, he’s got this.
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2024-12-13 20:36