The shocking demise of young police officer Benjamin Brice in the recent episode of Death In Paradise left fans reeling, and his successor made his debut on the crime drama this week. Viewers were heartbroken on Friday 31 January when they met Benjamin, brimming with enthusiasm for his new role at Police Saint Marie, only to witness his untimely death before the opening credits rolled. The unfortunate newbie was discovered lifeless by the roadside, marking the latest murder mystery on the Caribbean island – a plot twist that viewers found “heartbreaking.”
One fan expressed their sorrow: “This might be the most emotionally devastating our theme song has ever felt. Never getting over this one. Fastest I’ve ever fallen for a character and had them ripped away… Fully broke my heart, poor Benjamin.” Another was taken aback: “I was not expecting that start to Death in Paradise. WHAAAAAAAT!?!” One viewer even compared the episode’s opening moments to the tear-jerking montage in Pixar’s Up. Another remarked: “Benjamin Brice was killed quicker than Charlie Hulme,” referencing Hugo Speer’s character who met his end in the very first episode of Death In Paradise back in 2011, reports the Mirror.
(Image: BBC / Red Planet Pictures / Philippe Virapin)
Fans haven’t been given much time to grieve for Benjamin, though. In the second episode of the new series, it’s revealed that Commissioner Selwyn Patterson has already found a replacement in the form of officer Sebastian Rose.
The squad is knee-deep in the investigation of a reality TV star’s murder, and Selwyn introduces DI Mervin Wilson to Sebastian at the beach, where he’s all smiles working at a fruit stall in a pineapple costume. “He won’t be dressed as a pineapple when he is on duty,” Selwyn promises Mervin, adding optimistically, “I think there is potential there,” despite the Detective Inspector’s scepticism.
Sebastian is brought to life by 29 year old Shaquille Ali-Yebuah, who first graced our screens as Scott Lambert in a 2013 episode of Casualty. The West London talent has since shone in The Children Act with Emma Thompson, popped up in the Star Wars spin-off Solo, and delved into the sci-fi realm with The Feed. Plus, you might just recognise him from O2 adverts that hit our screens in 2021.
(Image: Fudge Park/BBC)
The latest instalment of Death In Paradise welcomes Don Gilet as the new Detective Inspector on Saint Marie, stepping into the shoes left by Ralf Little’s DI Neville Parker. Don Gilet’s Mervin initially plans a brief three-month stint on the island to probe his mother’s death, but fans are betting the island’s charm will convince him to extend his stay. They’ve already taken a shine to him, even if Mervin isn’t the friendliest to his colleagues.
One viewer wrote: “I know Mervin is rude and blunt, but I just love him. Two episodes in, and he might move to 2nd on my favourites list.”
“Someone told me the new DI didn’t have a ‘thing… but he definitely does, he’s blunt. I love him,” one telly enthusiast posted about the latest addition to the show, while another admirer mentioned: “Early on, I think I’m going to like our new DI… Neville took a while but was probably my favourite… Let’s see how Mervin gets on.”
The excitement bubbled over as one more devotee said: “I love Mervin, he reminds me so much of Richard Poole. Sarcastic, with a good heart. Stern, but understanding and wants off the Island but he ain’t leaving.”
View news Source: https://www.ok.co.uk/tv/death-paradises-new-star-who-34639346
