Death in Paradise's new detective announced as EastEnders star after Ralf Little exit

A former EastEnders star has been confirmed as Death in Paradise's new lead detective.

Fans of the long-running BBC crime drama had been speculating who would replace Detective Inspector Neville Parker following actor Ralf Little's departure. The 44-year old made his debut in 2020, becoming the fourth actor to take on the main role.

Ralf announced he was stepping down at the end of series 13 in March. Speaking about his exit on BBC Breakfast last month, he revealed: "This last series was always going to be my last series. I spoke to the BBC and Red Planet, the production company, and we all agreed.

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"If it was just a heart decision I would have wanted to do it for 20 more years. But just for the show and for my character Neville it just sort of felt like his story was finished and his journey deserved to be completed."

A new face will soon be leading Saint Marie's police force. The BBC confirmed on Thursday May 2 that former EastEnders star Don Gilet would be joining the cast as the new lead DI.

Don first stepped foot in Albert Square in 2008 as serial killer Lucas Johnson. He left the show for good in 2021, taking multiple breaks over the years. Don's other credits include Doctor Who, Holby City and The Loch.

The 57-year-old will make his Death in Paradise debut in a feature-length Christmas special later this year, before joining for a brand new series in 2025. Don will play Detective Inspector Mervin WiIson, who arrives on the idyllic island from London and isn’t overly pleased with his new surroundings.

Filming has already gotten underway on the French island of Guadeloupe, with Don joining returning Death in Paradise regulars Don Warrington, Shantol Jackson, Ginny Holder, Élizabeth Bourgine and Danny John-Jules.

Don said being offered the role of Detective Inspector Mervin WiIson 'feels like a deeply loved and incredibly precious jewel has been placed in my hands.' He added: "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."

Lindsay Salt, director of BBC drama, said: “We could not be happier to welcome Don to the series. Already known to BBC viewers from the likes of Sherwood, EastEnders, and Doctor Who, he’s long been one of the UK’s most exciting actors. Death in Paradise is in brilliant hands - roll on Christmas."

BBC Studios recently announced that following the successful launch of spin-off series Beyond Paradise last year, the Death in Paradise franchise will build on its international success with new Australian-set spin-off. Return to Paradise will air later this year on the BBC and on ABC in Australia.