Neville Parker from “Death in Paradise” will be “replaced by the most controversial character” after his exit

Following Ralf Little’s exit from Death in Paradise, fans of the BBC series continue to speculate about who might replace him as the lead. The actor played DI Neville Parker for five years after taking over the role in 2020 from Ardal O’Hanlon, who played DI Jack Rooney.

Fans saw Neville decide to leave his post in March to travel with DS Florence Cassell (Joséphine Jobert), and the pair left the Caribbean island together, much to fans’ delight. However, with Neville now gone, Death in Paradise must welcome a new lead investigator, and it is not yet known who will take on this important role.

Fans have voiced dozens of theories so far, with some wondering if an existing character will take on the role of lead investigator or if a brand new face will be welcomed to Saint Marie. The latest theory is that the series could welcome its first female lead investigator.

Some fans of Death in Paradise have wondered if DS Angela Young, played by actress Shirley Henderson, would be suitable for the role. The character appeared in an episode of the series in 2011 when she was briefly loaned to the Saint Marie Police Department.

Angela didn’t turn out to be the best addition to the team, but fans still threw her name out there as potential new lead investigators.

The new theories were shared in a Facebook group, with one fan writing: “I watch the classic episode with DS Angela Young and think she should be the new DI.” Another agreed: “She was my favorite but I also think Shirley Henderson is a great actress. I think she might become softer and more likable over time once we get to know her better.”

Others weren’t so keen on the idea. One said, “I think she was the most unpopular person on DIP, LOL.” Another fumed, “No. I did NOT like her at all. I don’t want a woman, DI. I don’t want the formula changed.”

A third agreed: “She has the most annoying voice and behavior in anything I’ve ever seen her do. If she was the new DI I wouldn’t watch.” A fourth simply said: “Oh my goodness NO.”

The BBC has not yet confirmed who will take on the role, but there are many actors that viewers believe could be the next detective. Doc Martin actor John Marquez has been suggested for the role, as has The Inbetweeners star Simon Bird and even comedian Diane Morgan.