The Reality of Filming Death in Paradise: Guy Henry’s Tough Experience in Guadeloupe
Death in Paradise is celebrated for its idyllic Caribbean setting, but behind the scenes, filming in Guadeloupe presents significant challenges. Recently, actor Guy Henry, best known for portraying Henrik Hanssen in Holby City, shared his difficulties while working on the show. His candid revelations provide a rare glimpse into the reality of shooting in paradise.
Guy Henry’s Experience: More Sweat Than Sunshine
Guy Henry played Ray Saunders in Death in Paradise, but his time on the show was anything but a tropical vacation. Despite the stunning backdrops, Henry described the filming conditions as grueling, citing extreme heat, relentless humidity, heavy rainfall, and an overwhelming mosquito problem.
In an interview, Henry remarked, “It was about 38 degrees, with 99.9 percent humidity, and the mosquitoes were unrelenting. At the same time, we had torrential downpours. It was a tough gig.”
Adding to the difficulty, the production was filmed out of season to cut costs. As a result, many local businesses were closed, leaving limited options for cast and crew members. Henry also recounted an unpleasant health scare when he overused DEET-heavy mosquito repellent, leading to trembling and severe headaches. Washing off the repellent provided immediate relief, but the experience left a lasting impression.
Despite the hardships, Henry praised the Death in Paradise cast and crew for their resilience, noting how they manage to produce high-quality television in such trying conditions.
Filming in Guadeloupe: The Hidden Challenges
Death in Paradise is filmed on the French Caribbean island of Guadeloupe, which stands in for the fictional Saint Marie. While the tropical scenery is breathtaking, actors and crew members must endure harsh conditions.
1. Intense Heat and Humidity
Ralf Little, who has played DI Neville Parker since 2019, spends nearly six months a year in Guadeloupe. While he has adapted over time, he acknowledges the physical toll of filming in extreme weather.
2. Mosquitoes and Tropical Hazards
Mosquitoes are a constant nuisance, requiring the cast to use repellents and protective clothing. However, as Guy Henry’s experience shows, even precautionary measures can have unintended side effects.
3. Seasonal Closures and Limited Amenities
The decision to film during the off-season means fewer tourists, but it also results in many local businesses shutting down, limiting options for food, entertainment, and leisure.
4. Long Working Hours Under Harsh Conditions
Actors spend hours in full costume under the scorching sun. For those playing detectives, wearing suits in 38-degree weather is particularly challenging.
Don Gilet Joins Death in Paradise as the New Lead
With Ralf Little departing the series, Don Gilet is set to take over as the new lead detective. Fans are eager to see how Gilet will bring his own style to the role and how he will handle the notorious challenges of filming in Guadeloupe.
Gilet, known for his roles in EastEnders and Silent Witness, is no stranger to demanding productions. However, stepping into Death in Paradise means adapting to the extreme Caribbean climate, just as his predecessors have done.
Despite Challenges, the Show’s Magic Endures
While Death in Paradise presents behind-the-scenes struggles, it remains one of the BBC’s most beloved dramas. The dedication of its cast and crew ensures that viewers continue to enjoy the show’s murder mysteries against the backdrop of paradise.
As Guy Henry’s experience illustrates, filming in an exotic location is not always glamorous. But for the actors who brave the elements, the reward is being part of a globally cherished series.
