DEATH in Paradise’s latest star Don Gilet has opened up on his origins with the BBC drama after signing up to play the leading role.
The former EastEnders actor made his debut in the show during the Christmas special but now he is back as the full-time leading detective, DI Mervin Wilson.
But before Don bagged the leading role, he had headed to Saint Marie in a forgotten role alongside lead show star Kris Marshall.
Speaking about his previous show cameo, he admitted he thought he’d never play the main man of the show.
Don said: “It was a long time ago now, but I certainly remember enjoying it!
“I remember thinking I’m here just playing the
villain.
“I’ll never have to play that character who speaks for seven pages nonstop.
“Cut to now, and I’m now playing the character who speaks for seven pages nonstop…”
Ahead of his first day in the role, Don admitted he was both “excited and terrified” to be returning full-time.
The actor said: “I’m sure it won’t be a surprise to say that it was both exciting and terrifying in equal measure.
“I liken it to one of those scary rides at a theme park. I’m going on it, and I know it’s going to be scary, but I’m going to do it.
“You’re daring yourself. Then you sit in the seat going, “What have I just let myself in for?!”
[bc_video account_id=”5067014667001″ application_id=”” aspect_ratio=”16:9″ autoplay=”” caption=”First look at Death In Paradise spin off Return To Paradise as start date for BBC drama is revealed” embed=”in-page” experience_id=”” height=”100%” language_detection=”” max_height=”360px” max_width=”640px” min_width=”0px” mute=”” padding_top=”56%” picture_in_picture=”” player_id=”default” playlist_id=”” playsinline=”” sizing=”responsive” video_id=”6364542459112″ video_ids=”” width=”640px”]“But it was exciting because I knew I was embarking on this new journey.”
But despite filming in the sunny climates of Guadeloupe, Don admitted he was all about work and less about play when it came to his stint on the island.
Don said: “I did get recommendations for some nice restaurants as well as places to go and visit from the cast.
“They wanted to take me out, but I really wanted to knuckle down while we were filming so I could look back and say that I put all my energy into this role.
“We’ve spent so much time together and there’s such a beautiful, warm bond between us.”
