Death in Paradise Ralf Little's replacement 'confirmed' as 'most hated' co-star steps in

Death in Paradise fans are convinced they know who will replace Ralf Little. Viewers have been speculating who will step into the shoes of Saint Marie's lead detective ever since the 44-year-old quit the role of Neville Parker at the end of series 13.

Making his debut as Neville on the BBC crime show in 2020, Ralf is currently the longest-serving DI on the series following four years playing the role. Fans have been sharing their thoughts on who his replacement could be, with one suggesting DS Angela Young could become the show's first female lead DI.

Angela, played by Harry Potter star Shirley Henderson, appeared in one episode of the series in 2011. She was briefly loaned to the Saint Marie police force after being approached by the commissioner while on holiday.

The character didn't prove to be the best asset to the team as she was in the process of accusing an innocent man of a crime. Despite only appearing in one episode, a Death in Paradise fan put her name forward as Ralf's successor.

Sharing their theories in a Facebook group, the 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."

The idea didn't go down well with others as one declared: "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" as someone else echoed: "Definitely not".

Meanwhile, Inbetweeners star Simon Bird is currently the bookies' favourite to replace Ralf. Betfred's likelihood of the 39-year-old taking on the role is at 36.4 percent, with his odds at 3/1.

Close behind him is Doc Martin's leading man Martin Clunes who has odds of 6/1. Betfred’s Kayley Cornelius said: “While Simon Bird still remains the firm favourite to replace Ralf Little, we could expect to see his 3/1 odds shorten in the coming weeks after a new fan favourite, Martin Clunes, has emerged.

"As the Doc Martin star continues to be heavily backed by punters to be the next DI Neville Parker, we have witnessed him skyrocket in the betting markets and he now sits as a close second favourite with 6/1 odds. With these odds expected to change in Clunes’ favour, it’s likely only a matter of time before he becomes the new frontrunner.”