Death in Paradise: New Series, Christmas Special and What’s Next for the Hit Crime Drama
Introduction: Why Death in Paradise Continues to Captivate Audiences
Death in Paradise has enjoyed high viewing figures and a generally positive critical reception, making it a staple of British television. The beloved crime drama, set on the fictional Caribbean island of Saint Marie, combines mystery, humour, and tropical escapism. With series 14 wrapping on 28 March 2025 and filming beginning in Guadeloupe for the brand-new series, the show’s enduring popularity shows no signs of waning. For viewers seeking cosy crime mysteries with sun-drenched backdrops, Death in Paradise remains essential viewing.
Series 14 and the New Detective Inspector
Death in Paradise season 14 began on Friday, 31 January 2025, on BBC One at 9pm, introducing ex-EastEnders star Don Gilet as the show’s new leading man, Detective Inspector Mervin Wilson. Series 14 marks the first full season with new lead Don Gilet, who replaced previous lead Ralf Little. The new DI has brought fresh energy to the series, though his character initially struggled to settle into island life. The whole season has now aired and is available to watch now on BBC iPlayer.
Christmas Special 2025: What to Expect
Fans have much to anticipate this festive season. The Death in Paradise Christmas Special 2025 will air on BBC One at 9pm on Sunday 28 December 2025. This year’s special sees DI Mervin Wilson and the team investigating after four co-workers wake up from the office Christmas party to find a stranger dead in the pool of their luxury Caribbean villa. The plot thickens as the murder weapon appears to have been locked in a drawer thousands of miles away in Swindon when the killing took place. Additionally, Mervin’s anxiously waiting to hear back from his newly discovered brother, which prevents him from embracing Saint Marie’s Christmas celebrations.
Series 15: Production Underway
The future looks bright for Death in Paradise enthusiasts. Filming has begun in Guadeloupe on the brand-new series, with Season 15 set to be out in 2026. The series is currently renewed for at least one more series, airing until 2026. This confirms that Don Gilet’s DI Mervin Wilson will continue solving crimes on Saint Marie, bringing stability to fans who have witnessed multiple lead changes over the years.
Conclusion: The Show’s Lasting Appeal
Death in Paradise continues to deliver what audiences crave: compelling mysteries, memorable characters, and stunning tropical scenery. Death in Paradise was the UK’s most watched returning drama in 2024 across all broadcasters, demonstrating its remarkable staying power. With a Christmas special approaching, series 15 in production, and BBC Studios licensing Death in Paradise to over 230 territories across the globe, the franchise’s international success shows the universal appeal of well-crafted detective fiction. For viewers, this means more Caribbean mysteries, more engaging storylines, and continued escapism for years to come.