Ardal O’Hanlon is going to be exiting from Death in Paradise next year when the show returns for its latest series. The actor recently announced he would be leaving the BBC ratings hit as DI Jack Mooney. In a statement, the Irish actor, 54, said he would be leaving mid-way through the series with his successor being introduced.
In a statement, O’Hanlon said: “I’ve spent the last four summers in Guadeloupe playing DI Jack Mooney (solving over 20 murder cases in my time there!).
“It’s been a hugely rewarding and unforgettable experience, working with incredibly talented actors, directors and crew while discovering a magical part of the world.
“However, it’s time to move on and explore other opportunities – preferably nearer the Arctic Circle.
“I’m confident that Death in Paradise will go from strength to strength and viewers will share my enthusiasm for Jack’s successor.”
READ MORE: Death in Paradise: Who will replace Ardal O’Hanlon? BBC teases actor
Not long after the news broke, the BBC shared a cryptic clue about his replacement after an image was released.
The photo featured a man sitting with his back to the camera on a beach hammock, looking out at the sea.
Death in Paradise fans were left baffled about who the person could be.
However, there have been subsequent reports suggesting Death in Paradise’s new lead detective will be portrayed by Ralf Little.
READ MORE: Death in Paradise: Why is Ardal O’Hanlon leaving Death in Paradise?
According to reports in the Mirror, Little has already started work on the new series.
Actress Shyko Amos, who is best known as Ruby Patterson, recently revealed on social media filming had wrapped up.
A source told the publication: “Ralf has already started work solving strange deaths on the show and we think fans will love him.”
Express.co.uk has approached representatives for Death in Paradise for comment.
READ MORE: Death in Paradise: Who is replacing Ardal O’Hanlon?
Who is Ralf Little?
The 39-year-old actor hails from Oldham, Manchester and had a number of roles in shows such as Elidor and Children’s Ward before his breakthrough.
Little is best known for his role in BBC sitcom The Royle Family which saw him become a household name at the age of 18. His other big show is Two Pints of Lager and Packet of Crisps.
Since then, Little has gone on to star in the likes of Our Zoo, Nativity, Borderline and The A Word.
IMDb also lists the star as appearing in an episode of Death in Paradise previously in 2013 as a character called William Teague.
Along with his acting career, Little has written a sitcom for Sky, treated the boards and is also a semi-professional footballer.
Little hasn’t spoken out on social media since the reports about him joining Death in Paradise started appearing with the BBC still yet to confirm who will be replacing O’Hanlon.
Death in Paradise will be returning to BBC One in 2020