Death in Paradise: Kris Marshall quits BBC show as Ardal O’Hanlon takes over lead role

The tropical murder mystery show is set to have a new main character
Leaving: Kris Marshall is quitting BBC detective show Death in Paradise
BBC/Red Planet Pictures/Denis Guyenon
Ben Travis2 February 2017

The BBC’s tropical murder mystery show Death in Paradise is set for a shake-up in its next series, as lead actor Kris Marshall has announced he is leaving the show.

The actor, also known for his role in BBC sitcom My Family, has starred in four series of Death in Paradise, taking over from original star Ben Miller.

“Death in Paradise has been an incredible experience, six months every year filming on a tropical island in the sunshine – what’s not to love,” Marshall said.

“Humphrey was socially awkward and clumsy but also brilliant, I’ll miss him but it’s time to hand over to someone new and spend more time with my family.”

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The show has already bagged a new lead in the form of My Hero star Ardal O’Hanlon – who made his debut appearance in the most recent episode of the comedy-drama as DI Jack Mooney.

“I am delighted to be joining Death in Paradise and exploring what’s made Mooney up and leave London for a life in the Caribbean,” he said. “I’ve already had a taste of filming in Guadeloupe and can’t wait to get back.”

Marshall’s final episode will be aired next week on Thursday, February 9 – and it’s currently unknown whether his character will be killed off.

Miller’s original character was killed off to make way for Marshall to become the new face of the show – so fans might want to brace for an unhappy ending in the next instalment.

Following the end of Series 6, Death in Paradise is confirmed to return for a seventh run in 2018.

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