Death in Paradise: Is Ralf Little leaving the hit BBC drama?

BBC detective drama Death in Paradise has aired the conclusion to its latest series. Friday, February 24 saw fans treated to two instalments from the world of the show, with spin-off Beyond Paradise premiering an hour earlier. Read more about that here.

Ahead of the final episode of the main series, viewers were concerned that lead star Ralf Little, who plays DI Neville Parker, would be leaving the show. Recent episodes have seen the character wrongly imprisoned for a murder that he didn’t commit.

In a shocking turn of events, it was revealed that Neville’s girlfriend Sophie Chambers had framed him in an act of revenge. The news was devastating for the detective, who thought he’d finally found love after unrequited feelings for his former co-worker DS Florence Cassell (Josephine Jobert) last series.

Read more: Ralf Little’s long distance relationship with American playright fiancee and Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps reunion battle

A teaser for this series’ final episode showed Neville contemplating whether to stay on the island of Saint Marie. But did he stay or did he go? Here’s everything you need to know.

Is Ralf Little leaving Death in Paradise?

Ralf will return as DI Neville Parker (BBC / Red Panet Pictures / Denis Guyenon)

Death in Paradise fans, you can breathe a sigh of relief. Ralf Little has broken the ‘three series rule’ for detectives and will be staying on as the series lead.

Friday’s series final saw Neville contemplate moving back to the UK after having his heart broken by Sophie. After hearing some advice from Commissioner Selwyn Patterson (Don Warrington) and a final chat with Sophie, he ultimately decides to stay put.

Following the news, Death in Paradise fans took to social media to share their happiness. One viewer wrote: "NEVILLE STAYING BEST NEWS EVER."

A second added: "Nah, Neville Parker ain’t going anywhere!" and a third said: "Neville knows he belongs in Saint Marie… he’s a perfect fit! So glad he’s staying!!!"

Death in Paradise is available to watch in its entirety on BBC iPlayer. For more showbiz and television stories get our newsletter here.

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