BBC Beyond Paradise exit as fans spot clue 'confirming' star is replacing Ralf Little

Fans seem to think a Beyond Paradise star could be replacing Ralf Little in the hit BBC series Death in Paradise following Friday night's grand finale. Following Ralf's exit, speculation has been rife about who will take over the lead role, with names such as Rupert Grint of Harry Potter fame and Martin Clunes from Doc Martin being bandied about.

However, another name thrown into the mix is Beyond Paradise police officer Kelby Hartford, who is played by Dylan Llewellyn. After solving a case on Friday's episode, fans seem to think a promotion to DI could be on the cards for Kelby, with one even predicting a move to Saint Marie.

Taking to X to share their thoughts and theories, one fan said: "Kelby has had a brainwave......little DI in the making. #beyondparadise." Another suggested: "I so wanted a Kelby and Marlon meeting. It won't happen now #DeathInParadise #BeyondParadise."

A third replied: "Yeah, haha) And Marlon "No-no-no, Kelby. On Saint-Marie we're doing it in style" and Kelby "Not sure about what style did you mean", then Marlon answered "I'll show you, you'll get it." (sic)

"Kelby is the best character in the Death in Paradise universe #beyondparadise," someone else praised. A fifth suggested: "Kelby is so me, I'm terrible at explaining things. bet he solves the case...promotion to St Marie #beyondparadise."

"Awww Kelby, my sweet summer child get him to St Marie, where he can mature.," another agreed while one echoed: "Yes to replace Ralf Little."

Death in Paradise writer James Hall has also sparked fresh theories after fans noticed he started following American actor Michael Rapaport, known for his roles in Friends, Prison Break, My Name is Earl, Atypical, The 6th Day, and Doctor Dolittle 2.

This has led to conjecture that the US star could be the next detective on the Caribbean island.

Bookmakers are currently favouring Rupert Grint as the likely successor, with odds standing at 6-4 for him taking over.

Despite this, there are still several other contenders, some of whom have even received public endorsements from former Death in Paradise leads. Ben Miller, who played DI Richard Poole from 2011 to 2014, suggested Mr Bates vs The Post Office star Toby Jones for the role, while also expressing a desire to see a female lead take the helm, reports the Express.

Speaking to RadioTimes.com, he said: "Oh my God, there are so many people who'd be brilliant," before adding: "Toby Jones that's who I'd like to see."

Adding to Toby, Ben also stated that a female lead could "definitely work" for the show.

He continued: "I could see that, 100 percent. I think that'd be good too. If we're playing fantasy detectives, Miranda Hart."

Death in Paradise and Beyond Paradise are available to watch on BBC iPlayer.