Death in Paradise's Don Warrington to star in new project away from BBC show

The character of Commissioner Selwyn Patterson, portrayed by Don Warrington, is a mainstay in the Death In Paradise series, having been part of it since its inception. However, this hasn't deterred the 73 year old actor from diversifying his roles, with two short films featuring him set to be released.

The first film, titled Grandfather, sees Warrington playing an elderly man named Roger Compton who receives a visit from social services. They inform him that his estranged son and daughter-in-law have died in a car accident, leaving behind a granddaughter he's never met.

While Grandfather is listed as completed on IMDb, Warrington's second short film is currently in the post-production phase, reports the Express.

In the film Shelf, Warrington portrays a character named Grant who "takes on a new challenge" following some "unfortunate changes" in his life. The project is directed by Laurence Rowe, known for his work on Empire Coleman's Empire Light and the Apple TV+ series Slow Horses.

Warrington gave fans a sneak peek into the filming of Shelf on Instagram, sharing a behind-the-scenes photo with the caption: "A look #behindthescenes at the filming of my new short film Shelf, coming soon to the festival circuit."

Filming for the 14th series of Death in Paradise commenced in May on the picturesque island of Guadeloupe with all eyes on a significant casting change. Ralf Little, who played DI Neville Parker, made his exit back to London which paved the way for ex-EastEnders star Don Gilet to step into the limelight as the new DI Mervin Wilson.

Excited about his new role, Gilet enthused: "Being offered the new lead role in Death in Paradise feels like a deeply loved and incredibly precious jewel has been placed in my hands. This is a big show, with a big heart and the love continually grows for it."

Gilet also shared his dedication to the role, saying: "It is my intention to never lose sight of that and to remain grateful, humbled and dedicated. Even during those testing times when every sinew is screaming at me to run off the set and dive into the sea, swimming pool or an ice-cold beer whichever happens to be closer at the time!"