The end of season 14 of Death in Paradise saw Commissioner Selwyn Patterson leave, and both fans and the characters on the show are feeling it. After many years of service to Saint Marie, Selwyn, played by Don Warrington, decided not to return as commissioner. He chose to take time for himself after a tough chapter in his life. The show has left the door open for him to come back, but his absence is already being felt.
Don Gilet, who plays DI Mervin Wilson, explained how important Selwyn was to the team and especially to Mervin. He said it’s a big change when someone who has been there for you suddenly steps away. Selwyn understood Mervin in a unique way and always seemed a step ahead. Losing him has left an emotional gap in the team.
DS Naomi Thomas, played by Shantol Jackson, agreed. She described Selwyn as more than just a boss. He was like a friend, sometimes an uncle, and sometimes even like a father. His wisdom was irreplaceable, and his departure leaves a big hole in the team.
Viewers last saw Selwyn leave Saint Marie after a heartfelt farewell with Catherine Bordey and encouraging Mervin to reconnect with his brother. The goodbye wasn’t final, and Warrington recently returned in the Beyond Paradise Christmas special, giving fans hope he may come back in the future.
Selwyn’s absence will be felt in the 2025 Christmas special. The team will face a tricky locked-room mystery when a stranger is found dead in a villa pool, and the murder weapon is mysteriously miles away in Swindon. The special stars Gilet, Jackson, Ginny Holder, Shaquille Ali-Yebuah, Élizabeth Bourgine, and guest stars Josie Lawrence, Kate Ashfield, and Pearl Mackie.
The 2025 Christmas special of Death in Paradise airs tonight at 8.30pm on BBC One.
