26 March 2024 , 17:33
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Ralf Little left Death In Paradise fans in tears as DI Neville Parker decided to leave Saint Marie.
The actor departed his role as Neville during series 13 finale on Sunday night as the detective decided he needed to travel and explore the world. Ralf confirmed his exit after the episode aired as he said: "So, there you have it! The secret's out! My time on Saint Marie has come to an end. But, what an end!"
"New adventures await Neville and he got to sail off into the sunset with his best friend, and, you know, who knows what happens for them next! I just want to say, just an enormous thank you to everyone who watched and supported the show. When I arrived, four-and-a-half years ago, I knew I had big shoes to fill. Coming into a series beloved by millions, including me, was a huge responsibility."
Ralf shot to fame as a teenager on The Royle Family and went on to star in Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps, 24 Hour Party People, Doctor Who and The A Word. Death In Paradise was Ralf's first leading role in a primetime drama, which he held for four and a half years.
The 44-year-old has revealed what he plans to do next away from the drama as he teased he wants to "surprise himself and audiences". "I want to push myself out of my comfort zone and do more things that scare me or that I maybe feel a bit intimidated by," Ralf told the Big Issue. "And I’d love to play a villain. It would be so nice to just play someone horrible – I’ve spent my whole career playing nice guys."
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Ralf shared his exit news with fans after the show (Ralf Little / Instagram)
He played Neville Parker for four and a half years (BBC / Red Planet Pictures)When revealing his exit, Ralf told fans: "It has been an absolute privilege and pleasure to bring Neville Parker to all of you and to share his really quite profound journey with you. I can't thank you all enough for the support over the last four-and-a-half years and as Neville heads off for new challenges and adventures and I head off for new challenges and adventures.
"When I look back at the time I spent on Death In Paradise, the way everyone took Neville into their hearts, it really has been one of the most magical and profound experiences of my entire life. If it wasn't for all of you, I'd have never of got to do it. So thank you, so so much!
"What next for the show? Well, I couldn't even tell you if I did know but I don't! I don't know! But what I do know is that the team that makes it, the producers, the writers, directors, all the crew, guest cast and of course my absolutely magnificent co-stars. They know what they're doing and the future is in good hands! So I'll be watching series 14 along with you guys with the same excitement you all will. I can't wait to see what happens next!"
In Ralf's final scene, Neville decided to head away with Florence into the sunset for a new chapter, with a hint that the pair might start up a romantic relationship. The actor first joined the Saint Marie police team back in 2020, and took over from DI Jack Mooney, who was played by Father Ted actor, Ardal O’Hanlon.