Ralf Little has spoken out about the BBC's decision to employ fellow actor Don Gilet as the new face of the Caribbean-based drama, Death in Paradise.
Little departed his leading role on the show earlier this year after becoming the longest-serving detective on the BBC series.
Gilet, 57, whose other acting credits include Shetland, Sherwood, The Stranger and Holby City, becomes the fifth leading detective on the island, following in the footsteps of Ben Miller, Kris Marshall, Ardal O'Hanlon and Little.
Filming has already begun in Guadeloupe ahead of Gilet's debut at Christmas later this year.
As fans have expressed their excitement at seeing Gilet take over, Little decided to follow suit on Thursday evening.
In a video shared to his Instagram page, Little made his thoughts clear on the appointment as he said to his followers: "Well, as of an hour ago on the Death in Paradise social media, the news is out.
Ralf Little left the role of Neville Parker in Death in Paradise earlier this year
BBC"I have actually known for a couple of weeks but obviously couldn't say anything... the new detective is the wonderful Don Gilet.
"I just want to say from me to you Don, I hope you have the most wonderful time, it's the most magical experience and I just hope you get everything out of it.
"I wish you the best of luck, I'm absolutely sure you're going to be magnificent. Cheers mate," Little signed off.
After sharing his verdict, fans were quick to express their dismay at seeing Little go - but many felt optimistic about Gilet's appointment.
"I will miss you so much!!! You were my favorite detective," one fan replied before a second said: "Gonna miss you but I’m really excited for the new detective."
"You are right! We have seen him in so many roles that it should be a joy," a third weighed in while a fourth commented: "Still gonna miss you but looking forward to meeting Di Wilson and hear his story."
Gilet has since issued a statement following the confirmation he'd be leading the drama, saying to fans: "Being offered the new lead role in Death in Paradise feels like a deeply loved and incredibly precious jewel has been placed in my hands.
"This is a big show, with a big heart and the love continually grows for it.
"It is my intention to never lose sight of that and to remain grateful, humbled and dedicated.
"Even during those testing times when every sinew is screaming at me to run off the set and dive into the sea, swimming pool or an ice-cold beer – whichever happens to be closer at the time!"
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Death in Paradise: Ralf Little has shared his thoughts on replacement Don Gilet
BBC/INSTAGRAM
Executive Producer for Red Planet Pictures, Tim Key, was also eager to see what the future holds as he said in a statement: "Don is an amazing actor and we’re delighted that he’s joining us as the show enters another exciting new era.
"We’ve got huge plans for the new series and beyond, and I can’t wait for the audience to meet Mervin and to see what we’ve got in store..."
