Don Warrington is one of the most respected and beloved actors in British television, known for his long and diverse career in both comedy and drama. With a career spanning more than five decades, Warrington has captivated audiences with his nuanced performances, whether as the wise and calm Commissioner Selwyn Patterson in Death in Paradise or as the charming and eccentric Philip Smith in Rising Damp. But beyond his television fame, Warrington’s work on stage and his role as a pioneering actor of Caribbean descent in the British entertainment industry has solidified his legacy as a significant cultural figure.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born Don Williams on May 23, 1951, in Trinidad and Tobago, Don Warrington’s early life was shaped by a love of the arts. He moved to the UK with his family at the age of seven, eventually settling in Newcastle upon Tyne. From a young age, Warrington showed an interest in acting, and his passion led him to pursue formal training at the Drama Centre London and Harris College (now part of the University of Central Lancashire).
As a young actor, Warrington honed his craft on the stage, and his deep understanding of the theatre set him up for a long career in both stage and screen acting. He adopted the stage name Don Warrington to avoid confusion with another actor named Don Williams. His early years in the industry focused on theatre, and he performed in a wide range of productions before transitioning to television and film.
Don Warrington Rising Damp: The Role That Defined a Generation
In 1974, Don Warrington found his first major breakthrough in the iconic British sitcom Rising Damp. The show, which ran until 1978, was a huge success and remains a classic of British comedy. Warrington’s role as Philip Smith, a self‑styled African prince living in a shabby boarding house, made him a household name. Despite his character’s pompous demeanor, Warrington brought depth to Philip, creating a character who was both humorous and tragically flawed.
Rising Damp marked a turning point for representation of Black actors in British television. Although Philip’s backstory was far from flattering, the role allowed Warrington to showcase his comedic timing and dramatic chops in a way that was rare for Black actors on television at the time. The show’s lasting impact on British comedy remains a testament to Warrington’s talents.
Death in Paradise: The Commissioner’s Legacy
One of Warrington’s most recognized and beloved roles has been Commissioner Selwyn Patterson in the BBC One crime drama Death in Paradise. The show, set on the fictional Caribbean island of Saint Marie, features Warrington as the head of the island’s police force. He first appeared in the series in 2011 and remained with the show for many years, becoming a staple character beloved by fans.
Commissioner Patterson’s calm, steady demeanor and wise leadership contrasted with the more impulsive detectives who came and went on the island. Warrington brought warmth and humor to the role, and his character’s wisdom often provided a counterpoint to the usual chaos of the crime‑solving antics on the show. His performance helped anchor the show, and his strong presence gave the show a foundation that was crucial to its success. Over the years, Death in Paradise became a major hit internationally, and Warrington’s role became one of the defining aspects of the series.
In 2025, as the show progressed, there were rumors and speculations about whether Don Warrington would be leaving the show. While his character took a reduced role in later seasons, fans continue to hope for his return in some capacity.
Don Warrington A Versatile Career Beyond the Screen
Though he’s perhaps best known for his television roles, Don Warrington’s work extends well beyond the small screen. He has also had an extensive and celebrated career in theatre, performing in a variety of classic and contemporary works. His theatre credits include performances with some of the most prestigious theatre companies in the UK, such as the Royal Shakespeare Company and National Theatre.
Warrington’s ability to seamlessly move between drama, comedy, and classical works makes him one of the most versatile actors of his generation. His stage work includes roles in productions like All My Sons and King Lear, demonstrating his skill in bringing complex, multi‑dimensional characters to life.
Don Warrington Personal Life: Family and Relationships
Don Warrington is a family man who keeps his personal life relatively private. He is married to Mary Maddocks, a well‑known actress and director. The couple has two children, and Warrington has often spoken fondly of his family and the importance of balancing his career with time spent at home.
His son, Archie, has followed in his father’s footsteps into the world of entertainment, with a growing career in stand‑up comedy and writing. While Don Warrington has largely kept his family life out of the public eye, it’s clear that his legacy in the entertainment industry has been passed on to the next generation.
Health and Wellbeing: Rumors and Speculations
Throughout his career, there have been occasional rumors surrounding Don Warrington’s health, including questions about whether he has experienced any serious illnesses, such as a stroke. However, there have been no public statements from Warrington himself confirming these rumors. Fans of the actor are always eager to hear updates about his health, but for the most part, he has maintained a relatively low profile in this regard.
Warrington’s dedication to his craft and his long career suggest a level of resilience and commitment to his work, despite any challenges that may have arisen over the years.
Why Did Don Warrington Leave Death in Paradise?
Don Warrington’s exit from Death in Paradise has been a subject of much speculation, but the reasons for his departure remain largely private. There were reports that Warrington’s character, Selwyn, would take a more limited role in later seasons, leading many to believe that the actor may have been shifting focus to other projects or choosing to take time off.
As with many long‑running television shows, the departure of beloved characters often marks a turning point in the show’s direction. It’s possible that Warrington’s exit was part of a natural evolution of his character’s storyline. Fans continue to express their appreciation for his work on the series and remain hopeful for his return in some capacity.
Don Warrington Net Worth and Legacy
As one of the most respected actors of his generation, Don Warrington’s net worth is estimated to be between £1.5 million and £3 million. This wealth has come from his extensive television career, theatrical performances, and occasional film appearances. However, it’s his longstanding contribution to British television and theatre that has earned him the most recognition.
Warrington’s legacy extends beyond the roles he’s played. As one of the few Black actors who broke through to prominence in the 1970s and beyond, he has paved the way for many future generations of actors, particularly in the realm of British television.
Conclusion
Don Warrington’s career in British television, theatre, and film is one marked by both versatility and consistency. From his unforgettable role in Rising Damp to his iconic portrayal of Commissioner Selwyn Patterson in Death in Paradise, Warrington has shown himself to be a performer of immense range and depth. His ongoing contributions to the arts, both on screen and on stage, ensure that his legacy as one of the most important actors in British entertainment remains secure.
Fans of Don Warrington continue to celebrate his work and eagerly await his next project, knowing that whatever role he takes on next, it will be one that showcases his exceptional talent and enduring presence in the world of performance.