After weeks of speculation, it has finally been revealed that Ralf Little will be replaced by former EastEnders actor Don Gilet. Ralf's final scenes aired during the series 13 finale which saw his character Neville Parker leave the island of Saint Marie with love interest Florence Cassell.
It was announced earlier today that Don, 57, will be stepping into his shoes as the new detective inspector Mervin Wilson. The official Death in Paradise Instagram account shared a picture of the actor as they penned: "We've got some really exciting news... there's a new detective in Saint Marie!
"Please give a very warm welcome to Don Gilet who will play DI Mervin Wilson." Now Ralf has extended his support for Don as he was quick to respond in the comments section.
Happy to hand the baton over, Ralf expressed: "Have a wonderful time Don! It's a magical experience," alongside red heart, palm tree and skull emojis.
Don is best known for his role as the evil serial killer Lucas Johnson on EastEnders but it looks like he's leaving behind the shades of grey for a much lighter role this time.
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His character will arrive on the island of Saint Marie after travelling from London, but he won't be "overly pleased".
Speaking about his new role, the BBC star expressed: "Being offered the new lead role in Death In Paradise feels like a deeply loved and incredibly precious jewel has been placed in my hands.
"This is a big show, with a big heart and the love continually grows for it. It is my intention to never lose sight of that and to remain grateful, humbled and dedicated.
"Even during those testing times when every sinew is screaming at me to run off the set and dive into the sea, swimming pool or an ice-cold beer – whichever happens to be closer at the time."
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Don previously made a guest appearance in an episode of Death in Paradise season four as Andre Morgan when Kris Marshall as DI Humphrey Goodman was the lead detective.
Ralf decided to bow out from the show after playing DI Neville for the past four years.
He took on the role for the ninth series after replacing Ardal O'Hanlon as DI Jack Mooney and was on the show for five successful series.
Death in Paradise is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
