Death in Paradise's new DI makes debut as viewers left divided over 'rude' attitude

On Sunday night, former soap star Don Gilet took over from Ralf Little in Death in Paradise, becoming the latest detective on the show. DI Mervin was informed by his London boss that he'd be assisting the Saint Marie police in solving the murders of two men dressed as Santa.

However, after a less than enjoyable holiday on the island, the DI made it clear he wasn't thrilled to be pulled into an investigation. As he interacted with the Saint Marie team, viewers were quick to point out his condescending and rude behaviour.

One viewer took to to say: "Blunt and rude but why do I lowkey love it #DeathInParadise." Another commented: "Ok, I love how blunt the new detective is."

A different viewer shared: "I'm loving Mervin's bluntness, but I don't think his new colleagues are." While another posted: "Well, I like the new detective . Yes, he's rude but he's also interesting."

Another tweet read: "I really like Mervin, he's exactly the kind of character I hoped they'd get , to change up the show again. A Luther type to be mean and moody but gets his heart melted by the Island."

However, not everyone was fond of his attitude, as one person noted: "Mervin's a bit rude, especially to the ladies! #DeathInParadise." Another added: "Mervin really isn't making a good impression #DeathInParadise."

In the end, he figured out who was responsible for the deaths and was seen driving off the island, determined to return to London. However, as Don is slated to be the new detective in the upcoming series, it seems he won't be straying too far, reports .

Discussing his addition to the long-standing BBC programme, the actor admitted he was frightened, recognising the show's cherished status.

When questioned about how it felt to step into the Detective Inspector role for the first time, he 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?!" But it was exciting because I knew I was embarking on this new journey."

Upon learning he had landed the role, Don confessed it was a cocktail of emotions, from relief to astonishment. He added: "It's a feeling for an actor when you get any job, no matter what role it is, because they like your craft and what you did in the audition."

"When I was in the room, there were four people to impress, and I managed to do it. It was a great reminder to me that, yeah, you can still do this. It felt like a little personal air-punch-without-anyone-looking moment."

Death in Paradise is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.