The ultimate Death in Paradise oral history: the creator and stars tell the whole story

In the opening episode of Death in Paradise, the soothing tones of reggae music serve as a gentle introduction, as the vibrant island of Saint Marie gradually unfolds, introducing its colorful cast one by one.

In no time at all, tranquility gives way to a baffling, homicidal chaos. The initial fatality and the precursor to numerous investigators specializing in stars: Charlie Hulme, portrayed by Hugo Speer.

Oh, right! Let me refresh your memory. The British crime drama “Death in Paradise” started off with the murder of Saint Marie’s lead detective. Later on, Ben Miller joined the cast as a peculiar replacement for the deceased detective, who was thrown into the hot tropical climate and tasked with solving Hulme’s case.

The beginning

The story that eventually blossomed into a cherished franchise originated from a 2007 news article about a tragic death in the Caribbean, which a British investigator was assigned to solve.

The tragic death of cricket coach Bob Woolmer sparked an idea in writer Robert Thorogood. Combined with his admiration and affinity for Agatha Christie’s work, this idea led to the creation of a show. However, its initial reception was not favorable; it even faced harsh criticism upon its debut.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but reflect on Bob Woolmer, whose unfortunate demise left an indelible mark. The authorities have since determined that it was an unforeseen and highly unusual accident. The manner in which he fell onto a minuscule bone in his neck, while standing by his basin, was the ultimate cause of his death. However, the circumstances surrounding his fall appeared strikingly similar to a strangulation, and it seemed like a classic locked-room mystery. In fact, they had to forcefully break through the door to gain entry after the incident.

You’re looking for a fresh television series. Remarkably, it made headlines in the newspapers, even gracing the front page. Amidst the buzz, there was only one person who thought, “Wait a minute, I can transform this into a TV show.” In truth, the idea seemed to materialize quite suddenly.

In 2008, CSI was the highly-acclaimed crime series dominating television screens, focusing on cutting-edge forensics. From bullets passing through to computers and DNA analysis, it was all about high tech and contemporary science. The challenge of creating a modern equivalent of traditional, comfortable mysteries with their lack of lab work, forensic psychology, and forensic entomology had always intrigued me. For years, I’ve pondered, wouldn’t it be wonderful if there was a way to blend a modern setting with the charm of a classic cozy crime?

Upon learning about the Bob Woolmer case, I mused, perhaps if we exile this individual to a remote island with no cellular service, all issues related to DNA testing, pathology, and other scientific investigations could be circumvented since these resources wouldn’t be available on the island. Instead, they would be sent off-island for analysis, allowing the science to progress elsewhere without any complications on the island itself.

In simpler terms, this passage means that at the next step, it became clear to them that they could conduct an investigation similar to a classic Agatha Christie murder mystery, by interacting with people and cleverly uncovering the identity of the culprit.

I remember at the time the press weren’t that interested in the show to start off with.

Ben Miller (as DI Richard Poole): Death in Paradise started off rather gradually. After wrapping up filming, we understood its essence and everyone was quite content with our production. We believed it had succeeded, but the initial reviews were rather negative, and I’m unsure about the viewership numbers for the first episode.

I believe they found it acceptable, although many didn’t fully grasp its humorous intent. As a result, they reviewed it as if it were a Scandinavian crime drama or similar genre.

I believe it’s reasonable since I didn’t grasp it initially when we began, as I too found it puzzling. However, I hadn’t fully appreciated its comedic aspect until we actually started working on it.

Striking the correct balance in tone can be tricky. If it’s too lighthearted, the narrative might lose its impact. If it’s too heavy, the emotional depth may become overwhelming.

As a dedicated viewer, let me share an exciting moment that still lingers in my memory – it wasn’t clear whether it was the third or the fourth installment, but what unfolded left us all stunned. To our surprise, we managed to draw a larger audience than the much-anticipated England match. Frankly, none of us had foreseen such a turnout.

“It’s a little bit of a glimmer of light, a glimmer of hope in an otherwise broken world.”

People seem to find something troubling about it, don’t they? Yet, it can be challenging to discern the specific reasons behind their reactions. Often, they mention that it’s set during a wintery season and yet, many other shows feature sunny locations as well.

It doesn’t really explain Death in Paradise.

Ardal O’Hanlon (DI Jack Mooney) expresses that it possesses a delightful, unpretentious feel to it. It avoids being overly dramatic and the riddles are exceptionally crafted. What more could one ask for than the satisfaction of solving a conundrum?

Approximately a few weeks following Christmas, it’s commonly recognized as the saddest day of the year – a time when many begin planning their summer vacations to lift their spirits. It’s during this period that the popular series Death in Paradise tends to make its appearance, bringing joy and entertainment to many.

In the midst of a world shattered into pieces, there’s a sparkle of optimism and solace – a feeling many find captivating in series like “Death in Paradise”. What makes these shows appealing is their ability to wrap up all loose ends in a tidy manner. Living in an unpredictable era, we often crave order and clarity amidst life’s chaos. Shows like “Death in Paradise” provide that sense of tranquility by neatly resolving everything – offering a much-needed comfort.

Casting the detectives

Following his video audition submission and subsequent role acquisition, Ben Miller spent two years portraying DI Poole before relinquishing the position in 2013, paving the way for Kris Marshall. This transition initiated a tradition within the series. Over time, as the lead role has been passed among different actors, the detectives’ personalities have ranged from distinctly unique to reassuringly familiar. When selecting each new lead actor, what specific qualities were the creators aiming to capture?

Ben Miller (DI Richard Poole): Back then, auditioning over video was quite unusual. Nowadays, you only audition on your phone or camera. However, at that time, it was last minute and I couldn’t make it back in time. So, I decided to record it on my mobile phone instead. Guess I was a trailblazer!

In simpler terms, when I first watched the series “The Wire”, I was captivated by its unique story. I thought to myself, ‘I’ve never experienced anything quite like this before.’ However, I didn’t initially understand that it was intended to be humorous. Instead, I believed it was a serious portrayal of life in the Caribbean, expecting it to be raw, intense, and intriguing.

After that, we went through several rehearsals, and many people chuckled as I delivered my lines. However, I was merely attempting to immerse myself in the role and the scenario.

“I remember loving the story and the script… But I didn’t realise that it was meant to be funny.”

As we commenced filming, I gradually realized that what I was involved in wasn’t intense drama as I initially thought. It wasn’t a comedy either, but rather something quite different from real life. We were shooting a scene where a bride is pushed off a balcony and lands on rocks. They filmed the shot from my vantage point at the top of the building, preparing to show the bride falling down. Instead, they dropped a mannequin in a wedding dress, which spun and bounced several times before finally falling onto the rocks below.

Initially, I stated, “Wow, that’s quite ingenious! You’ve arranged it like this so I can easily spot where the real effect will be,” to which they responded, “Actually, that’s exactly what we intended.” However, I later pointed out, “Clearly, that’s not a human. It’s evidently just a store mannequin dressed up with a wig and clothes on it.

And they said, “Yeah, yeah, we don’t want it to look too real.”

That was it. Out the window for you – I am not in The Wire.

Ardal O’Hanlon (DI Jack Mooney): I chuckled upon being approached since I recalled when Ben Miller first received the role, I was somewhat grudgingly thinking, “Why isn’t a role like that ever offered to me?” So, it took me by surprise a bit.

There were some challenges due to the lengthy climactic scenes in each episode, as they were roughly 10 pages of dialogue each. They wanted me to practice creating one to ensure I was capable of handling such extensive content.

Later, I recall that Josephine (Jobert, portraying Florence Cassell) was summoned from Paris for us to work on a few scenes jointly. This was to determine our suitability. The process took some time.

I hadn’t known Josephine prior, but I must admit I wasn’t deeply acquainted with the show either. I hadn’t watched much of it, so our initial meeting was quite enjoyable. We instantly clicked, as she’s a genuinely warm and pleasant individual. Our compatibility seemed effortless during the chemistry test, and I hope we carried that over to the show, both in rehearsals and recordings.

Don Gilet (previously Mervin Wilson): The audition experience was quite fundamental; it was distinct since it was my first one in a while where I was actually in the same room as other people. Earlier auditions had been conducted via Zoom calls. Additionally, Don Warrington was present and reading along too.

It struck me as quite notable since he didn’t need to attend readings; others were brought in instead. As a result, he was present along with the casting director, producer, director, and executives in the same room.

Meet the team

As a gamer immersed in this captivating virtual world, I can’t help but notice that the main characters steer the narrative, yet it’s the collective performance of the entire crew that truly defines the atmosphere. The way Gilet talks about Warrington underscores his significant role within our digital family, a significance that resonates with numerous other characters, old and new.

Don Warrington’s role in that series holds immense importance for both the viewers and the character itself. His performance on Saint Marie is just as crucial as a fresh detective’s. They require that additional vitality, that omniscient vibe. His presence is indispensable.

“People are going crazy left, right and centre but Don remains ever calm.”

Ardal O’Hanlon (DI Jack Mooney): Don (Warrington) and I share a strong bond of friendship and also worked well together. We’ve managed to keep in contact over the years. He’s simply an exceptional individual. Beyond his professional qualities, he serves as a beacon of reason. On top of that, Don is exceptionally steady during challenging times. While others grow agitated, Don maintains an unshakable composure.

Working alongside Josephine was equally enjoyable; she was simply fantastic. The duo of Tobi Bakare as Sergeant JP Hooper and Danny John-Jules as Dwayne Myers brought laughter galore. In fact, they were an exceptional pair. But then, the cast undergoes a change.

Audrey Legastelois-Bidé (the actress playing Madeleine Dumas) visited me in Paris for our chemistry reading session, which might have played a significant role in her casting. She infused the character with an invigorating energy and liveliness.

Amos, portraying Ruby Patterson, also delivered an exceptional performance. Upon her arrival, she introduced a unique vibe that added a fresh twist to the storyline. The setting is like a carnival, always dynamic and full of surprises.

Besides me, I was equally captivated by the ensemble cast. At times, it felt surreal to check the list of actors for the upcoming episodes. Actresses such as Rebecca Front, who I admired from her work in “The Day Today”, were among them. Similarly, there was Simon Callow, a renowned figure in both theater and film.

Among all, that moment stood out as my most cherished – engaging with the assorted attendees and proudly displaying my stunning island to them. I found immense joy in the social aspects. All in all, the experience left a profound impact on me.

Ben Miller (as DI Richard Poole): My Death in Paradise crew were all exceptional. Sara Martins, who portrayed Camille Bordey, was particularly hilarious and brilliant since she had to memorize those scripts in English, which she was only beginning to learn during filming, an absolutely remarkable feat.

Gary Carr (Fidel Best) has achieved great success since then. Danny John-Jules is truly legendary. It’s remarkable; I rarely saw him wear the same ensemble during my time in the Caribbean. On some occasions, he’d even switch outfits within a day. Where he stored all those clothes, I can’t say, but each day brought a new baseball cap, new sneakers, and an entirely new wardrobe.

Gary’s performance in the play was simply delightful, much like a thrilling debut for him as Fidel. His acting was spot-on, and Danny never failed to impress with his wit and humor, all delivered with just the right expressions. To top it off, he’s an amazing motorcycle rider, and I cherished our adventures together in the sidecar. I would join him, donning my funny glasses and helmet, a bit like Mr. Toad, while he expertly handled the bike. Oh, those were some unforgettable good times!

And don’t forget Harry the lizard…

Initially, the complete account of Harry unfolds with Polly Hill, currently serving as the Commissioner of Drama at ITV. She was our initial executive at the BBC, and just prior to filming, she provided me with the most valuable feedback I’ve ever received: “Everything is fine. Great job! You’ve put in a lot of effort. Could you please take another look and make it more enjoyable?

I stepped aside for a moment to ponder: She’s absolutely correct. We’ve been too narrow-minded in our approach, we should be more carefree and daring. We could use a fresh perspective, symbolized by a large brimmed hat.

In my opinion, it seems that every detective series features a distinctive means of transportation – like Morse driving his Jaguar – and I recently came across a blog post by a British police officer stationed in the Cayman Islands, who has an older Enfield Motorbike with a sidecar as his ride.

I had an idea, it struck me as clever! I plan to donate a motorcycle and sidecar to the police station, as it seems amusing. The image of someone riding in the sidecar is what tickles my funny bone. Additionally, I considered something else entertaining like a pet, but since he’s new here, we can’t give him one due to regulations.

In the Caribbean, instead of pets, they have house lizards. However, when we tried to capture one in Guadeloupe, we found out it’s illegal to relocate or force a lizard to move there. They are protected species. So, someone suggested we digitally create the lizard instead, which is what we ended up doing, possibly by Tony [Jordan the producer].

That’s how we ended up with this CGI lizard.

Becoming the detective

The character of a leading detective in a series like Death in Paradise can’t be portrayed in just one way. Each detective has added their own unique touch to the role, and these nuances have stemmed from the actors’ individual acting styles rather than solely from the creative team’s guidelines. This distinctive quality is also present in Anna Samson’s portrayal of the lead detective in Return to Paradise, which continues beyond the original show into the Paraverse.

It’s incredibly thrilling to work on a TV show that takes a while to film, because each day, you get to see the raw footage and swiftly adjust your writing to accommodate the new actors.

Initially, after creating the character, it undergoes development during its first season. As it performs, you might find yourself appreciating its comic timing or emotional depth. For instance, it could excel at both comedy and drama. However, in this case, it’s particularly skilled at portraying intense emotions while maintaining a reserved demeanor. This is when the writing process becomes exciting because the actor has taken ownership of the character, making it feel less like a creation of the writer.

As a dedicated gamer immersing myself into this virtual world, the character’s essence was neatly laid out in the game script. The developers had meticulously crafted this character with intricate details and depth, providing a roadmap for me to follow. However, mastering the perfect tone, that elusive balance between seriousness and humor, proved to be quite the challenge.

At the start of the production, we filmed multiple takes for every scene, ranging from comical to serious, and some blending both. The director of the premiere episode, Charlie Palmer, and I collaborated extensively to determine the appropriate tone. This allowed for a great deal of creative flexibility during the process.

“You’re not taking on a job as a puppet. It’s ‘What have you got to give?'”

Don Gillet (as said by Mervin Wilson): What stood out to me during the process of shaping you was its collaborative nature. It’s not about me directing you like a puppet. Instead, it’s about asking, ‘What unique skills and talents do you bring? What is your artistic contribution?’ I receive scripts from you, then make creative choices based on the character as described and what resonates from the script itself. Then, you, with your intuition, come in and contribute further to the character development.

The dialogue exhibited a unique charm, incorporating humor, emotion, and elements that felt deeply personal, making it a reflection of my own character.

I can’t pretend to be someone else during our encounter, as authenticity is essential from the outset; I must present myself as I truly am.

I continued the structure of “Death in Paradise,” but each character is unique, so I didn’t have to adhere to any specific patterns. It was wonderful. (or simply: I followed the format of “Death in Paradise” while making distinct characters, which was terrific.)

The denouement

Each episode of “Death in Paradise” reaches a climax where tense suspects confront the detectives, who reveal the method by which they identified the culprit. As Selwyn once told Mervin Wilson during his interview, this is an established tradition, and it’s crucial that it’s incorporated into the audition process, alongside the satisfying moment when all puzzle pieces fall into place.

Each time I perform the climax, it feels like starting over for me. I scrutinize the core elements that make up this production since, as an actor, I need to ensure every word is spot-on, as they reflect my character’s thoughts. It can be challenging, but I must avoid viewing it as a memory exercise.

The words have to mean something, the clues have to mean something.

To put it simply, I often work late into the night so that when it’s time to perform, those words flow easily for me, just as they do for Mervin when he speaks.

The information is readily available, easy to access now. The battle was the main part of the storyline; now it’s about sharing my knowledge, and I hope when we film, they won’t spot me, but rather Mervin. Assignment. (Homework can be replaced with ‘assignment’ for a more formal context)

In each episode, our producer Tony Jordan emphasized the importance of including a scene where character Richard Poole experiences an “aha” moment, when he finally pieces together everything that’s happened, a scene that isn’t always present in other shows.

I appreciate it particularly since this theme has been consistently present among other investigators too, as you can notice, that pivotal instance resonates with each one of them.

It was a clever thing to do. I think it’s quite cool.

According to Don Gillet (speaking about Mervin Wilson): Mervin doesn’t follow a traditional, step-by-step approach when connecting ideas. Details that appear insignificant to others often lead to an ‘aha’ moment for him.

When the breakthrough occurs prior to the final resolution, it’s significant since he’s spent the entire episode searching for this exact instance. It’s within grasp, but elusive. I need something to click for me to understand that I’ve found it.

According to Anna Samson (DI Mackenzie Clarke, Return to Paradise), the scene is meticulously detailed in the script since it’s not just me who needs to be mindful of it; the entire production team must also be aware. This means that the camera should be positioned at a precise instant to capture our actions and delve into her soul by focusing on her eyes.

This scene requires a particular focus reminiscent of Mackenzie, as it demands portraying her unique mental process – meticulously fitting together the puzzle’s various parts.

Filming in paradise

Saint Marie is just as integral a character within Death in Paradise as the detectives, the deceased, and the crooks stirring up chaos. The series’ creators have ensured that the island of Guadeloupe feels genuine and serves as a home for the show’s team.

Robert Thorogood: In around 2010, we were required to shoot scenes in the Caribbean. At that time, many shows set in warm locations preferred filming in South Africa due to its excellent time zone for the British and highly skilled production crews.

There was a strong feeling that if we wanted to pull off this venture, it would require us to travel to South Africa. Tony Jordan and I firmly refused to create a false scenario; we were determined for it to be genuine. The Caribbean plays a crucial role in the entire series.

“Tony Jordan and I just said, ‘Over our dead bodies are we going to make this fake.”

Through the years, characters and performers have changed, but the charm of the Caribbean remains constant. To ensure our show had longevity, we needed an authentic setting, which a fictional location couldn’t provide. That’s why filming in the Caribbean was essential to us. When France television agreed to help finance our production, they proposed shooting in Guadeloupe. Authenticity at its finest!

Ben Miller (DI Richard Poole): I believe Guadaloupe was an ingenious selection as it doesn’t fit the typical image of the Caribbean. The common perception of the Caribbean is characterized by white sand beaches, palm trees, and a deserted island-like atmosphere. However, Death in Paradise, being set in Guadaloupe where there’s more of a rainforest vibe, presents a distinctly different landscape.

It seems stunning how the island appears on-screen, as we shoot quite far from civilization. When we visited, the beaches were always deserted and void of people. It felt like an untouched paradise with no signs of human life. Instead, people preferred to reside in the mountainous regions, where it’s cooler.

Instead of having a studio set, every filming site is an authentic location, which can be found across Guadaloupe. I believe this lends a significant impact to the overall production.

Passing the baton

A moment arrives when every main character in a series like paradise must depart. Ben Miller was the one who started this trend back in 2014. Incredibly, the show continued even after its creator thought it would be the end for his murder-mystery drama. Contrary to his belief, this could not have been more untrue. Most recently, Ralf Little has become the latest lead to hand over the role, demonstrating the show’s remarkable resilience and long-lasting appeal, having survived for over a decade since Miller’s departure.

As I pass the controller to Don Gilet, I took a heartfelt moment to say goodbye to DI Neville Parker. On my Instagram, I expressed my gratitude to all the fans who’ve stood by me through my 4.5-year journey. I acknowledged that taking on this role in a series cherished by millions, including myself, was a massive responsibility.

Experiencing the warmth with which everyone embraced Neville has been an incredibly magical and heartfelt journey that I will cherish forever. Without your kindness, I wouldn’t have had this opportunity, so from the bottom of my heart, thank you more than words can express.

“It’s been the ride of a lifetime.”

Gilet joins Death in Paradise as its fifth detective, but his arrival wasn’t planned; it was a result of genuine off-screen events.

Ben Miller (as DI Richard Poole): I truly wished we could continue. There seemed to be plenty more depth yet to uncover in the character, and many untold stories waiting to be explored.

During that period, the situation proved challenging as I had to deal with my wife giving birth to our little one right between seasons one and two. Since he was born prematurely, I was occupied for several months, making it extremely difficult for me to manage both roles effectively. Consequently, things became quite tricky under those circumstances.

In a genuine manner, there was an authentic feel to my performance. I wasn’t pretending to be stranded on a desert island with no way home; instead, I truly am stranded here, unable to return home. This is what I conveyed.

It might not be immediately obvious to others, but there’s a genuine feeling of annoyance I had about being there. Despite it being challenging for me on a personal level, it turned out to be beneficial for the performance.

Initially, everyone assumed the show was doomed. We believed the main character, Ben, was irreplaceable. After Ben departed, our thought process shifted to, “How can we possibly write off DI Richard Poole as still alive and potentially returning to solve murders? This might hinder us from introducing a new detective that the audience will accept.

It turned out unexpectedly that Kris Marshall would be joining us. Therefore, there was no need to write off Richard Poole as he was replaced by another talented actor, who, like all our detectives, proved to be exceptional.

Ben Miller (DI Richard Poole): It’s quite fortunate, actually, as it resembles Doctor Who in a way. I appear to have established the rhythm. You complete three [seasons] and then depart. However, unlike others, there’s no murder involved for me.

It just seems to be me that gets murdered.

One thing that became clear early on was that the character Richard Poole is not someone who enjoys group activities. The humor lay in sending someone who disliked the Caribbean to the Caribbean, which meant we could never create a story involving sailing, swimming, paragliding, or any other activity related to the Caribbean, as the joke centered around him not engaging with the tropical environment.

When brainstorming Humphrey, we asked ourselves, “Who would be the polar opposite of Richard?” Who could participate enthusiastically in all things?” And who would bring chaos where he brought order?” We decided to flip the characteristics and it was during this process of creating Humphrey that we realized, “This is fun!

“This is not going to be a great look for me if I mess this up.”

As a devoted fan, I found it fascinating when Sara Martins, portraying Camille, realized after a couple of seasons that her character was the polar opposite of Richard Poole. With the introduction of a new lead who also didn’t fit the mold of Richard Poole, it meant that they were agreeing on everything, and the comedy, tension, and friction were lacking. She understood that what was needed in her place was someone who would clash, so she decided to depart, leaving a space for a character who could provide the necessary contrast.

She departed, and we acknowledged, “Indeed, she’s spot on,” as it was evident that within the police station, their relationship dynamics required them to be exceptional yet uniquely so. It’s an unspoken rule, but they needed characteristics that could irritate each other, adding a touch of tension to their interactions.

Kris Marshall (DI Humphrey Goodman): Initially, I was terrified when I took over from Ben because it was my first time taking charge from someone else and joining a show already in progress. It seemed daunting, like if I didn’t do well, it wouldn’t reflect positively on me.

Fortunately, it seems that a combination of good fortune and skill played a part in the growth of this show. When I passed it on to Ardal, I was delighted to find that it remained unbroken and in good condition for him to continue with.

After wrapping up this project, there’s a sense of satisfaction that fills me, knowing I gave it my best. Just like Ben did for me, I can step back now and say, “I did well.” I fulfilled my responsibilities, and that’s a fantastic feeling to experience. And guess what? The show is still thriving! It’s a testament to the work we all put in together.

Ardal O’Hanlon (DI Jack Mooney) mentioned that he was somewhat sneaked into the series. It didn’t seem like anyone anticipated the partnership between Humphrey and Jack in London.

It wasn’t widely known that Kris Marshall was departing from the series, but I don’t believe anyone anticipated my character – a London-based detective collaborating with Humphrey – would replace him. I find that quite cleverly done. We shared a farewell scene where Humphrey initiated it and I contributed, which I think added an element of amusement for the viewers.

The series exhibits such resilience that it manages to endure even these significant shifts in its cast. It bravely faces each alteration and continues to thrive somehow. Truly, it’s quite astonishing.

Kris Marshall (DI Humphrey Goodman): I departed in 2017, which means we now have more than just Ardal stepping into the lead role; we’ve also had Ralf, and currently Don Gilet is on board. I think he’s terrific, and I believe this is the perfect direction for the show to take.

As a gamer, when it comes to crafting my character and playing the game, I believe the key is not to mimic what others have done or what characters like Ben or Kris created. Instead, I need to find my unique path and make my mark in the game by being true to myself.

You lean on your gut feelings quite a bit. From my perspective, Jack Mooney, as I’ve portrayed him, carries a somewhat lower social standing. Often overlooked by others, this is a part of his persona. He intentionally gives off an air of being less capable, which people often mistake. However, doing so at their own risk, as he can turn out to be quite formidable when necessary.

“You just know in your bones that it’s time to go.”

It turned out that I spent more time in Guadeloupe than expected, as I got involved midway through one television series and departed midway through another, resulting in four consecutive summers there. That’s a substantial amount of time to dedicate to anything. Regardless, my job requires a great deal of effort and time, which is something most people can confirm. It’s quite a distance from home, the work is intense, the hours are long, and the conditions can be tough.

I hold it in deep affection but I’m relieved that I no longer need to do it. It feels like the right moment to move on. My role in this hasn’t got much more room to grow, and considering my personal life, spending entire summers away isn’t fair to my family. We were gone for up to six months each year.

I deeply valued making a comeback to stand-up comedy, as it opened up opportunities for additional acting roles, rekindled my passion for scriptwriting, and allowed me to experience various aspects of life that one often overlooks.

Ralf Little (DI Neville Parker) : Was I stepping into big shoes? Absolutely, greatly. I had previously appeared in an episode alongside Ben [Miller], and I watched him excel as a detective, way back when. Incredibly, Don [Warrington] didn’t recall that encounter – he didn’t recognize me! There have been quite a few cast members over the years.

That was surprisingly useful. I already had an idea about the location of the island and the mechanics of the show. It took away some of the enigma and discomfort associated with it.

1. Option A: Ben is fantastic. Both Kris and Ardal are fantastic too. It’s clear they have things under control when it comes to reviving a show that was starting to lose some steam.

2. Option B: Ben is simply outstanding. Similarly, Kris and Ardal impress me as well. They don’t seem to be struggling with the task of rejuvenating a show that had begun to falter a bit. It’s evident they know their stuff.

3. Option C: Ben is terrific. Both Kris and Ardal are terrific too. They don’t come off as though they’re grappling with the challenge of revamping a show that was showing signs of slowing down. Instead, it appears they have a firm grasp on what they’re doing.

Choose one that best fits your writing style and tone.

“20 minutes before my episode came out all of the worry and anxiety arrived.”

I had an idea, ‘Let’s go, aim for a professional performance, memorize your lines, stick to your cues, and get everything correct.’ It was a bit nerve-wracking, but I didn’t spend too much time worrying about it because it wouldn’t have made a difference.

Just as I was about to unveil my latest gaming episode, a flood of doubts and apprehension about whether it would be well-received washed over me within a span of sixty seconds. Over the subsequent ten to fifteen minutes leading up to the stream’s start, these fears were tested and played out in my mind.

I worried people might dislike it so much that I couldn’t bear to watch it myself. My partner texted me 10 minutes in saying, “You can relax now, it’s a success.” She must have been keeping tabs on social media. It was a challenging task as the shoes were big to fill, but I chose not to think about it and give my best performance instead.

Don Gillet (previously Mervin Wilson): I didn’t delve deeply into extensive research [when assuming the role]. I selected specific episodes to watch because I enjoy observing how transitions occur and the narratives that unfold when a new character joins. This provides a general understanding of each character’s traits, and it makes you think, ‘If this wasn’t a different person, why would they replace him?’

This series doesn’t merely rely on individuals resolving crimes – it’s never as simple as that. Instead, the narrative is primarily character-focused, but in this case, they’ve delved even deeper into the character’s development, creating a captivating arc that unfolds progressively throughout the storyline.

As a gamer, I stepped away from the stage a few years back to immerse myself in the world of the Marlowe Murder Club. However, it was James Hall who picked up the reins and continued the story.

Leaving “Death in Paradise” was incredibly tough for me. I am deeply fond of the series and what makes it even harder is the fact that my colleagues on set have become more than just work associates, they’re friends. Over the years, we’ve been through a lot together, much like comrades in battle. We’ve come to know each other’s secrets well enough to say we know where all the proverbial bodies are buried.

I consider myself quite fortunate, for I knew “Death in Paradise” was under exceptionally capable management. Now they occasionally consult me out of politeness. The instant I laid eyes on our prospective Detective Don during his audition, I realized he was exceptional talent.

As I watched his performance, it struck me that he exudes an undeniable charm, possesses a wit so sharp it could cut through steel, and has a sense of humor that left me rolling with laughter. What truly sealed the deal for me was his ability to convince me, beyond any doubt, that he’s a seasoned detective in the Metropolitan Police force.

In simpler terms, the audition was exceptional. Ralf, much like all our detectives, is indispensable, yet everyone yearns for a life beyond spending nine months in the Caribbean.

Outside of work, there aren’t many leisure activities to engage in, and the time to do them is limited. You put in a great deal of effort – you work 11 day fortnights, which means six days one week, five days the next, and then have a two-week break in between. However, this schedule lasts for nearly nine months, and your family are at home during this time.

The performances are excellent and they aim to transport families there, however, it should be noted that the show is incredibly challenging.

The Paraverse

The popularity of Death in Paradise has fueled the expansion of its brand, resulting in the development of a book series and two spin-offs – Beyond Paradise starring Kris Marshall, and Return to Paradise by Anna Samson.

This quote, whose author I can’t recall, perfectly encapsulates the writer’s psyche – ‘Writers are individuals with inflated egos and low self-confidence.’ They possess grand aspirations, yet grapple with self-doubt.

Among the ambitions I’ve harbored for some time is seeing my name on a published work, specifically a murder-mystery novel. As the series Death in Paradise took off, I found myself pondering alternative settings to pen a murder mystery and potentially secure a book deal.

After reflecting, I pondered, ‘Since I enjoy watching Death in Paradise, perhaps I could transform it into a series of books.’ And so, I secured a publishing contract to pen some Death in Paradise novels. These books have been moderately successful; however, they haven’t exactly ignited global enthusiasm.

“I admire Humphrey. I’m married to a Humphrey, but I’m not Humphrey at all.”

I believe that those who discover and enjoy these books are genuinely fond of them, and I take great pleasure in having authored them, as well as feeling a sense of pride for them. They were inspired by Richard Poole, whom I consider my interpretation of the detective characters. I have deep admiration for Humphrey, yet I must clarify that while I appreciate him, I am not like him at all.

When composing the book, it was naturally Richard whom I would lean on for assistance, given that he is most similar to me and requires minimal thought to access due to our shared traits of being quite neurotic and rule-bound.

I may not be as visibly upset as him, but I can understand that I might seem a bit different due to my high-functioning autism, even if I’m not always showing it openly. However, I assure you, I’m here and very much present. On the other hand, Humphrey doesn’t fall under any spectrum.

As a devoted fan, I’m thrilled about Kris Marshall (DI Humphrey Goodman)‘s words on Beyond Paradise. We had an established fanbase for Death in Paradise to build upon, but our aim was to create a wholly unique show. Yet, we wanted to preserve the essence that made Death in Paradise special – its DNA.

Anna Samson: I absolutely love the murder-mystery genre, and secretly, I’ve always dreamt of being a detective on the BBC. Landing this role turned out to be quite fortunate for me.

The gender of our lead detective doesn’t fundamentally alter the essence of our series as much as one might assume. Instead, what truly distinguishes our show is its unique setting – Australia. This particular location adds a distinct flavor and twist to the story that wouldn’t be present otherwise. Additionally, the fact that the central character is returning to her hometown also plays a significant role in shaping the narrative in a way that’s unlike other detective shows.

As a gamer putting my thoughts into words, let me tell you, this game deviates quite a bit from the original series. Unlike the tropical setting of the Caribbean, we’re dropped into a town that feels eerily familiar yet oddly alien. The protagonist isn’t an outsider due to cultural differences, but because she’s known in a place where she doesn’t fit in anymore – it’s like she’s a fish out of water even in her own backyard. I believe this twist on the ‘fish out of water’ trope sets our game apart from others.

After Kris, we began discussing an idea right there on the spot, suggesting, “We’re in the Caribbean! Isn’t it exciting to consider casting a Black British actor or a woman here? That’s what Kris showed us: keeping the show fresh by regularly updating the cast.

Over the past seven to eight years, we’ve engaged with a broad spectrum of performers, using the term “acting community” inclusively. We’ve extended roles to various individuals, but interestingly, so far, we’ve received affirmative responses exclusively from white males.

With every white British man we had (all of whom were exceptionally talented, with Ardal and Ralf being no exceptions), we couldn’t help but feel as though another year had slipped by, and we seemed to be reiterating the same theme – ‘the adventure of a white British man abroad’. It’s amusing, yet we crave to share other tales. So, when Don consented to join us, our excitement knew no bounds! We were absolutely ecstatic! I can hardly believe we managed to secure him for our project.

I’m excited since I believe this adds long-term success to our show, as we need to bring variety. By variety, I mean in terms of characters, not any significant changes or transformations. Essentially, we want to tell different stories each week, rather than having the same group consistently resolving a humorous murder mystery.

Don Gilet (speaking of himself, played by Mervin Wilson): I prefer not to focus on being the ‘first Black detective’ as a significant aspect. It’s evident in my appearance, and people often try to interpret it politically. However, this isn’t a political matter. The narrative remains consistent. This character is an outsider, hailing from the UK. Essentially, that’s it.

In a more nuanced perspective, they aim to hire the most qualified candidate for the position. However, they do not prefer a candidate solely based on their ethnicity or race; they seek the best individual regardless of color.

The nature of this role should not revolve around our skin tones, as I often fear that excessive emphasis on it could lead to further segregation. I prefer for neither the character nor my position here to be stereotyped based on skin color.

In just a brief moment, you’ll no longer perceive colors. Instead, you’ll sense vibrations, immerse yourself in narratives, and find richness in these experiences. You’ll feel the emotions deeply.

A Black actor doesn’t desire to be solely characterized by their skin color, but rather aims for an equal opportunity where talent and hard work are valued above all. The entertainment industry can be challenging, and success isn’t determined solely by one’s abilities; it often depends on being in the right place at the right time, self-belief, and dedication to craft. It’s not their skin color they want to rely on, but rather their storytelling skills that have always been their focus.

The best storylines

In the thrilling crime series “Death in Paradise,” there have been several tense scenes, such as when Neville was accused of murder. The show’s creators and actors discuss which plotlines held the most significance for them.

As a devoted fan, I must say that among all the episodes I penned, it’s the third one from season one, set in a school, that I felt most proud of – and it seems many others share my sentiment!

Before the production of the show began, I had thought up a concept: what if a real body was disguised as a display skeleton? This idea appealed to me because you often see these skeletons in medical facilities, educational institutions, and I envisioned incorporating this skeleton into the entire episode. The climax would involve Richard Poole unveiling that the classroom’s “skeleton” was actually a dead body, revealing itself at the end of the episode.

The issue with this concept is that it lacked any connection to the Caribbean, despite being an excellent murder mystery. I felt that if we attempted to incorporate it into episode one, we wouldn’t have a show because it could easily have been filmed in Midsomer or the setting of Morse.

I encountered significant resistance as people questioned the Caribbean essence of the story, saying something along the lines of “This doesn’t seem like a typical Caribbean tale.” I responded by emphasizing its quality and eventually won them over, as it became clear that, given our location, the story was indeed set in the Caribbean. The Caribbean served not only as the scenic backdrop but also as the classroom, the cast, and essentially everything else involved in the production.

I was just pleased that I’d held onto it for long enough and delivered on it.

Ardal O’Hanlon (DI Jack Mooney): The series had a few more intense storylines, but nothing like “Happy Valley.” I’d specifically mention the incident with Florence getting shot. It was quite emotional and also had its fair share of action.

In my opinion, those few episodes seemed to be the moments that felt most authentic. It was during these instances that acting skills could truly shine.

“That’s where you could, as an actor, exercise your dramatic chops.”

On occasion, his situation mirrored that of a man mourning the loss of his wife who had passed away. His longing for his daughter residing in the United Kingdom added an undercurrent of sadness to him. This subtle sadness occasionally exposed a tender vulnerability.

One scene I’m particularly pleased with is the fact that, during the production of our first season, none of us had ever encountered a hurricane before.

My outlook is similar to, ‘What’s all the commotion? It’s just a little wind and rain, nothing to worry about.’ However, when you face a hurricane, you realize how wrong one can be about such things. I never imagined something like that could occur. And in the second season, they created an exceptional episode focusing on a hurricane, forcing us all to spend the night at a university campus. That episode was fantastic.

The legacy

In 2024, the crime drama series Death in Paradise marked a significant achievement by airing its 100th episode. For over a decade, this show has not only cultivated a dedicated fanbase spanning multiple generations but also left behind an impact that transcends the television screen.

Ben Miller (as DI Richard Poole): I frequently meet teenagers at book signings for my children’s books, and many of them are fans of Death in Paradise. I’m not sure why it has become popular among this age group. It seems to have a broad appeal across generations. When I ask them when they started watching Death in Paradise, most say it was during lockdown.

Sean Maguire, who appeared as recurring guest star Criminal Marlon Collins in the pilot and 100th episode, was contacted by a producer regarding a new show. The producer explained that it was a pilot they were trying to attract as many viewers as possible to. It was a small role, requiring minimal effort, but it would be beneficial for them. And, it happened to be shooting in the Caribbean.

In a more conversational manner, it could be rephrased as follows: “So, is it okay if I invite my partner to join us?”, they replied affirmatively, “Sure, sure, no problem.” To which you responded enthusiastically, “Excellent! I’m all set then!

When the 100th episode rolled around, they gave my agent a call, asking if I’d be keen to take on the role. It’s still set in Guadeloupe, and Don Warrington is still there. I replied, “Well, my girlfriend then has since become my wife, and we now have three kids. Can I bring my family along?” They responded, “Of course, of course, of course.” So, that’s settled, I thought to myself, “Fantastic!

Reaching 100 is truly a significant accomplishment. During our filming of the pilot, I recall having a conversation with Ben Miller where I asked, “How are you finding this experience?

At that point, it seemed like he was experiencing some tough personal challenges, which made him sound uncertain or unsure about things.

Initially, I exclaimed, “A murder mystery in the Caribbean? This has potential, buddy! It’s going to last a while.” He responded, “I’m not sure. I can’t see that far into the future.” In my mind, I thought, “You need to, as you’re indispensable here.

Robert Thorogood: At the beginning of Death in Paradise, there was absolutely no film infrastructure; no team, nothing at all. We had to send everything out in crates since we couldn’t find anything locally. Then a few years back, I went to the set and upon my arrival at the hotel, the person who greeted me said, ‘Ah, you’re Robert Thorogood! Thank you so much for creating the show. I’ve just graduated from Guadeloupe University with a focus on film studies.’

On Guadeloupe now, they capture scenes while you can fire off shots, as the team is well-trained and the necessary facilities are in place, with locals familiarizing them with prime shooting spots. When I reflect on this, I can’t help but feel a sense of satisfaction, thinking to myself, “That was pretty neat.

Death in Paradise and Beyond Paradise both air on BBC One and stream on BBC iPlayer.

Read more Beyond Paradise news on our dedicated homepage

2025-04-06 09:55

HIPPO PREDICTION. HIPPO cryptocurrency

LUCE PREDICTION. LUCE cryptocurrency

ALCX PREDICTION. ALCX cryptocurrency

PRQ PREDICTION. PRQ cryptocurrency

VIDT PREDICTION. VIDT cryptocurrency

CULT PREDICTION. CULT cryptocurrency

WOLF PREDICTION. WOLF cryptocurrency

GHST PREDICTION. GHST cryptocurrency

LUMIA PREDICTION. LUMIA cryptocurrency