Death in Paradise fans were previously saddened by what seemed to be Don Warrington’s exit as Commissioner Selwyn Patterson – only to celebrate his return
Death In Paradise fans believed the Commissioner had left the show(Image: BBC)
Death in Paradise star Don Warrington has explained why he appeared to depart the BBC drama last year – before an unexpected return. Fans were left disheartened at the end of the previous series when Commissioner Selwyn Patterson appeared to walk away from the fictional island of Saint Marie.
Moreover, his co-stars Don Gilet and Shantol Jackson subsequently revealed that his apparent departure had sparked an “emotional hole” among the cast.
In what seemed to be his final scenes, Selwyn encouraged Mervin (Don Gilet) to rebuild bridges with his brother and delivered a poignant goodbye to Catherine Bordey (Elizabeth Bourgine).
Nevertheless, hope of a return quickly emerged when Don reprised his role in the Beyond Paradise Christmas special.
With his return to Saint Marie now confirmed following the latest series’ comeback, the actor has urged fans to “assume nothing” regarding his character’s future.
Discussing the turnaround in a recent interview, Don maintained that the storyline was never a marketing tactic designed to reinvigorate the long-running programme.
“That was just the storyline,” he told The i Newspaper. “The producers thought it would be interesting to have Selwyn reach some kind of crisis and then, after dealing with it, return.
“There was no Machiavellian intent – but it was certainly very nice to know my character had penetrated people’s consciousness to that extent.”
Selwyn originally chose to depart the island following the loss of his position after being replaced. Though he was subsequently offered his role back, he opted instead to head back to the UK to see his daughter.
Don confessed he hadn’t expected the powerful response the storyline would provoke, telling Radio Times: “Well, it came as a shock to me, I have to say.
“I thought it would just pass by under the radar and we’d carry on. But apparently there has been an outcry. It’s flattering, and I would be dishonest if I said it wasn’t.”
When questioned whether the new series might provide Selwyn a quieter chapter, Don indicated otherwise.
“I wouldn’t think so at all. He can’t settle – that’s the nature of Selwyn,” he said.
Rather, he reckons viewers will witness the commissioner as “a new man” after a turbulent spell.
“He’s come back with renewed energy, and he’s going to deal with the island in a slightly different way,” he added.
The new series has also introduced a fresh face to the force, with Catherine Gorton arriving as Sergeant Mattie Fletcher.
The actress has characterised her role as “tenacious” and “sassy”, yet “really fun to play” and has revealed that viewers can “expect some action” in series 15.
Death In Paradise continues tonight at 9pm on BBC One