The actor was the longest-running lead in the show’s 13-season history but has now bid farewell to the beloved series.
Is Ralf Little leaving Death in Paradise cast?
Ralf Little has quit the show after playing DI Neville Parker for five years.
The Mirror reports that he is on his way out, with a show insider telling the publication: “Ralf has been brilliant in the role and he’s given it a good long run.
“Fans are sure to be sad to see him go but they’ll also be happy for Neville.”
Ralf’s final episode aired on March 23, 2024, which saw DI Neville Parker finally sail into the sunset with DS Florence Cassell (Joséphine Jobert) after her epic return to the series.
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But with a 14th season confirmed, his exit leaves a void that will need to be filled, and some frontrunners are already emerging for the role.
Who is the new inspector in Death in Paradise?
Former The Inbetweeners’ Simon Bird is currently the bookies’ favourite.
According to bookmakers Betfred, Simon, 39, is the favourite to take over from Ralph, with odds of 5/4.
He would fit in with the series’ theme of casting actors known for their work in comedy.
Motherland star Diane Morgan, 48, is second favourite to take over so far, with odds of 7/1.
Other stars like Matthew Horne and Romesh Ranganathan have been thrown into the mix.
The show may even introduce its first female detective soon.
Jodie Whittaker from Doctor Who, and Jaye Griffiths from The Bill are all possible options.
Tim Key, who makes the show, said in 2021: “Our intention in having the detective solve the crimes [and] it’s to show that that’s sort of the only thing that character can do effectively.
“Because he’s an incredibly broken character, and socially inept.
“There’s no rule it always has to be a man.”
Why has Ralf Little quit Death in Paradise?
The exact reason for Ralf’s departure is not known.
However, he called joining the show his “dream role” when he was announced as the latest cast leading man in 2019.
He said at the time: “It took less than 0.005 seconds to say yes to playing the new DI! How could I not?
“It is a joy to play Neville and I can’t wait for viewers to see him in paradise.”
Ralf followed in the footsteps of Ben Miller, Kris Marshall and Ardal O’Hanlon by fronting the beloved show.
How to watch Death in Paradise?
The final episode of Death in Paradise season 13 aired on Sunday, March 24 at 9 pm on BBC One.
The season is now available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
A fourteenth series has already been confirmed and there is a Christmas special in the works with filming due to commence soon.