Death in Paradise's schedule replacement confirmed as new BBC drama begins

Death in Paradise's replacement has been confirmed after the BBC series came to an end last Sunday. The BBC drama which usually airs at 9pm, has been replaced with a new series called This Town.

The new series has been created by Peaky Blinders writer Steve Knight and will follow young people drawn into the ska and two-tone scene in the Midlands during the early 1980s. The story begins in 1981, as Birmingham is thrown into political and social unrest.

Death in Paradise fans were left sobbing last Sunday as they bid farewell to Ralf Little, who played DI Neville Parker, and Josephine Jobert, who portrayed his love interest, Florence Cassell. It was a bittersweet ending as the couple sailed off into the sunset to go travelling together.

And while the BBC has not confirmed who will replace Ralf as the lead detective, the actor did address his departure in a moving video tribute to fans. He began: "My time on Saint Marie has come to an end – what an end! New adventures await Neville, and he got to sail away into the sunset with his best friend.

"Who knows what happens for them next! I want to say an enormous thank you to everyone who watched and supported the show when I arrived four and a half years ago.

"Coming into a series beloved by millions was a huge responsibility and I had no idea whether viewers would take to my interpretation of Neville’s character, and indeed to me."

Ralf looked emotional as he admitted the response and support he has received over his four and half years on the show has been "overwhelming".

He went on: "I can’t thank you all enough for the support over the last four and a half years. It’s been one of the most magical and profound experiences of my entire life.

"The team that makes Death in Paradise - the producers, writers, directors, crew, guest cast, and my magnificent co-stars - they know what they’re doing, and the future is in good hands."

He added: "I can’t wait to see what happens next. It’s been the ride of a lifetime."

The BBC's new drama This Town looks worlds away from Death in Paradise.

The drama set in Birmingham stars Downton Abbey actress Michelle Dockery, who plays alcoholic singer Estella.

Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk and other media about the role, Michelle said: "Estella at the beginning [of the show], she's kind of an outsider.

"She's been exiled from the estate for talking too much. She's a struggling alcoholic so she's not spending as much time with her son as she would like to.

"But gradually as the story goes on, she's integrated much more into the narrative and she's a singer. So that kind of gives you a clue as to how she gets involved.

"She's an amazing character, I just loved her. When I read the script for the first time, I just fell in love with all of the characters in this, it's just so beautiful and relatable."

This Town returns on Sunday at 9pm on BBC One.