Death in Paradise actor Kris Marshall quits, will be replaced by Father Ted's Ardal O'Hanlon

Jacob Stolworthy
Thursday 02 February 2017 11:31 GMT
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Josephine Jobert and Kris Marshall appeared together in three series of the programme 
Josephine Jobert and Kris Marshall appeared together in three series of the programme 

Kris Marshall has announced he is to step down as the lead in BBC series Death in Paradise.

The former My Family star - who memorably appeared in Richard Curtis film Love Actually - has appeared as DI Humphrey Goodman on the show ever since replacing Ben Miller in 2013.

Father Ted star Ardal O'Hanlon will take over as lead.Speaking about his decision to leave on Good Morning Britain, Marshall said: “It’s one of those things. I’ve loved it and had a chance to enjoy it.“

While family was the actor's key reason for leaving (the series shoots on the Caribbean islands of Guadeloupe), he did express some doubts, quipping: “I’m still wondering whether I’ve made the right decision; I’ve been filming in London since and there’s a moment when you’re in the freezing cold in a big puffer jacket and wondering why I’m not in flip-flops.”

While O'Hanlon will no doubt be a great addition to the show, fans seem rather saddened by Marshall's announcement.

Irish actor O'Hanlon will make an appearance in tonight's episode (2 February) as DI Jack Mooney in scenes set in London.

“It’s the first time the show has left the island on which it’s based," Marshall revealed. "Tonight and next week is a double-parter, which is always the sign of confidence of a programme.”

Death in Paradise continues tonight on BBC One at 9pm.

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