DEATH in Paradise fans were in shock after discovering Don Gilet’s age.
The actor was announced yesterday as Ralf Little’s replacement as the hit BBC show’s leading man.
His announcement received mixed reactions as some fans wished a female character had been given the chance to shine.
But one of the things that took people by surprise was Don’s youthful looks.
A fan shared a tweet from Death in Paradise, which featured a photo of Don holding a filming marker.
The original post read: “There’s a new detective in Saint Marie! Please give a very warm welcome to Don Gilet who will play DI Mervin Wilson!”
The fan retweeted and wrote: “Don Gilet is 57, folks.”
It provoked a stunned reaction from other accounts, with one person writing: “Flipping heck!”
“I think it’s called GOOD GENES *cries*” another wrote.
“Alright for some, innit?” said a third.
“I know – young looking. He hasnt changed a bit since 55 Degrees North, very handsome,” chimed a fourth.
This comes after Don was spotted holding hands with Happy Valley star Siobhan Finneran after growing close on set.
Don was previously married to actress Tracy Whitwell – known for Peep Show and Soldier Soldier – who he shares a 17-year-old son with.
The actor is famously secretive about his private life and has never revealed why they broke up.
Don appeared to confirm a new romance with Siobhan – who played Clare Cartwright in Happy Valley – when they held hands on the red carpet at the TV Choice Awards this year.
Don and Siobhan met on The Loch in 2017.
She previously dated Emmerdale star Mark Jordon who is now with his co star Laura Norton.
Don is best know for his roles in EastEnders, Doctor Who and Holby City.
Don will be introduced onscreen to fans during Death in Paradise’s Christmas special this year before the 14th series kicks off in 2025.
He told the Mirror : “This is a big show, with a big heart and the love continually grows for it.
“It is my intention to never lose sight of that and to remain grateful, humbled and dedicated.”
