Death in Paradise's Neville Parker 'replaced by most divisive character' after exit

Following Ralf Little's exit from Death in Paradise, fans of the BBC show are continuing to speculate over who could replace him as the series' lead. The actor played DI Neville Parker for five years, having taken over the role from Ardal O’Hanlon, who played DI Jack Rooney, in 2020.

Fans watched Neville decide to leave his post in March, in order to travel with DS Florence Cassell (Joséphine Jobert) and the pair left the Caribbean island together, much to the joy of fans. However, with Neville now gone, Death in Paradise must welcome a new lead detective, and it's yet to be revealed who will be taking on the important role.

Fans have shared dozens of theories so far, with some wondering if an already existing character will step up to the role of lead detective or if a brand new face will be welcomed to Saint Marie. The latest theory is that the show could welcome its first female lead DI.

Some Death in Paradise fans have wondered if DS Angela Young, played by actress Shirley Henderson, could be a good fit for the role. The character appeared in one episode of the series in 2011, when she was briefly loaned to the Saint Marie police force.

Angela didn't prove to be the best addition to the team, but fans have still thrown her name into the mix of potential new lead detectives.

The new theories were shared in a Facebook group as one fan wrote: "Watching classic episode with DS Angela young and think she should be the new DI." Another agreed: "She was my favourite but then I think Shirley Henderson is an amazing actress. I think she could mellow over time and become more likeable once we get to know her."

Others weren't so keen on the idea. One said: "I think she was the most disliked person on DIP LOL." Another fumed: "No. Did NOT like her at all. Don't want a woman DI. Don't want the formula changed."

A third agreed: "She has the most irritating voice and manner in everything I’ve ever seen her in. If she was the new DI I’d not be watching." A fourth simply said: "Gosh NO."

The BBC are yet to confirm who will take over the role, but there have been many actors that viewers believe could be the next detective. Doc Martin actor John Marquez has been suggested to take over the part, as well as The Inbetweeners star, Simon Bird, and even comedian Diane Morgan.