Have Death in Paradise fans rumbled 'annoying' co-star as Ralf Little's replacement?

Death in Paradise fans are on the edge of their seats as speculation mounts over who will take over from Ralf Little as Saint Marie's lead detective. After announcing his departure at the end of series 13, viewers are eager to see who will step into the role of Neville Parker, whom Ralf has portrayed since 2020, becoming the show's longest-serving DI.

Whispers among the fanbase suggest a familiar face might return to the sun-soaked shores of the fictional island. A post on a dedicated Facebook fan page sparked excitement with a photo of Ruby Pattison, who was played by Shyko Amos. Ruby joined the team as the Commissioner's (Don Warrington) niece and fans were gutted to see her leave after series nine.

The suggestion has sent waves of enthusiasm through the community, with numerous comments urging BBC chiefs to consider Ruby as the new DI. One fan shared: "I have enjoyed all the inspectors as I feel they have all brought something different to the show. I am not sure a female inspector would work as well but that may be because we haven't had one yet. I wish Ruby would come back, she was brilliant."

And while some fans agreed Ruby should replace Neville Parker, others branded her character as "annoying". One fan said: "Ruby was the most annoying character ever on DIP, thank god she didn't last long." A third fan echoed: "I am laughing because I am agreeing with you."

"The actress that played Ruby was brilliant," another praised. "So much so I disliked her character and was very glad she left." Someone else disagreed: "I loved Ruby and would love to see her back, maybe as the new DI?"

Other fans are hoping Ruby's former colleague Jack Mooney, portrayed by Ardal O'Hanlon, will make a return to Saint Marie.

Meanwhile, another intriguing theory has surfaced suggesting DS Angela Young, played by Shirley Henderson of Harry Potter fame, could make history as the first female lead DI after her memorable guest appearance in 2011.

Despite her character being mired in controversy for falsely accusing a man, a supporter in a Facebook group discussion championed her as the next Inspector, stating: "Watching classic episode with DS Angela young and think she should be the new DI."

Echoing this sentiment, another viewer lauded Shirley Henderson's acting skills: "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."

However, Inbetweeners stalwart Simon Bird is presently leading the pack to replace Ralf, according to betting house Betfred, offering a 36.4 percent chance at odds of 3/1.

Close behind is Martin Clunes of Doc Martin fame, listed at odds of 6/1. Betfred's spokesperson Kayley Cornelius observed: "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."

"With the Doc Martin star being increasingly backed by bettors to take over as DI Neville Parker, we've seen him surge in the betting markets, positioning him as a strong second favourite with 6/1 odds. As these odds continue to shift in favour of Clunes, it seems likely that he'll soon overtake as the top contender."

Death in Paradise is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.