Eager fans of the hit TV show Death in Paradise have spotted a conspicuous absence in the line-up for the upcoming series set to premiere on January 31. Danny John-Jules, who portrays the jovial officer Dwayne Myers, made a notable comeback for the Christmas special alongside his on-screen father, Nelson (played by Ram John Holder).
Yet, with glimpses into the new series shared by the television bosses, viewers were quick to remark upon Dwayne's disappearance from the ensemble. While the void left by the character leads to some disappointment, the rejoicing is palpable regarding the return of JP Hooper, played by Tobi Bakare.
Audiences turned to social media platforms to express their joy and dismay. One lamented, "Oh, is JP back? Shame about Dwayne."
Echoing a hopeful sentiment, another fan expressed a keen desire: "OMG, I hope we get JP for more than one episode," while another simply queried, "Where is Dwayne?"
Amidst various reactions, one viewer reluctantly accepted reality, stating: "Glad it is back, going to miss Dwayne - again," reports the Express.
Questions continued to bubble up as another fan asked, "Why are Dwayne and his dad not there?" This was closely followed by an appeal from another supporter: "Bring back Dwayne and Nelson; why is he missing?"
Intrigue was further fuelled by speculation hinting at changes in the detective team itself, posited by yet another fan: "I wonder if Naomi is leaving and JP is the new DS?"
Whispers of tantalising twists and turns abound for the veteran characters returning to Saint Marie's sandy shores, teasing entrancing drama ahead.
Don Warrington will be gracing screens once more as the Commissioner, Elizabeth Bourgine will captivate as Catherine, Shantol Jackson will portray Naomi, and Jinny Holder will return as Darlene.
The first episode's synopsis, set to air on January 31, reveals: "Elsewhere, Commissioner Selwyn Patterson (Don Warrington) must deal with momentous news from the Chief Commissioner in Jamaica that rocks the police department to its core.
"As an unexpected foe attempts to enforce the unfathomable, Catherine (Elizabeth Bourgine), as Mayor, acts as the last line of defence in a battle to save the team as we know it.
"In a surprising turn of events, Naomi (Shantol Jackson) finds herself at an emotional crossroads when an old flame from St Barnabas makes an unexpected appearance on the island, while Darlene (Ginny Holder) takes on a mentoring role when a new officer joins the force, but is left questioning whether she's the right person for the job.
"And with the chance to delve deeper into his mother's life, Mervin begins to realise that things in Saint Marie may not be as they appear. As everything he thought he knew starts to unravel, will his life ever be the same again?"
Death in Paradise returns on January 31 on BBC One.
