Death In Paradise star Ardal O'Hanlon shares reason behind season 9 exit

Don Warrington doesn't know why Death in Paradise is a success

WARNING: This article contains spoilers from Death in Paradise.

BBC's Death In Paradise is known for its frequent change of leading men s, what prompted Ardal O'Hanlon, who played the character Jack Mooney, to leave?

O'Hanlon, renowned for his roles in Father Ted and My Hero, joined the cosy crime drama in 2017 as the affable DI Jack Mooney.

However, his stint on the globally successful show ended when he announced his departure in 2019, with his character returning to London with his daughter Siobhan Mooney (portrayed by Grace Stone).

Why did Ardal O'Hanlon decide to exit Death In Paradise?

Ardal O'Hanlon, of Death In Paradise fame, recently shed light on his decision to bid farewell to his days in Guadeloupe's Saint Marie.

In a conversation with Radio Times, the 58 year old actor revealed that he wanted to refocus on his stand-up comedy career and spend more quality time with his family.

Why did Ardal O'Hanlon leave Death in Paradise? (Image: BBC)

Irish actor Ardal O'Hanlon starred in Death In Paradise for three years. (Image: GETTY)

"I suppose I didn't think I'd be doing anything for a fourth series," he remarked.

"I really thought three series would be the max, you know.".

"Because it's quite a demanding show... it's a tough old show in terms of being away from home for so long and in terms of the conditions that you film in the heat and the humidity."

In a separate interview with OK!, O'Hanlon admitted that his wife Melanie, with whom he has children Emily, Rebecca and Red, found his absence challenging.

Reflecting on his family's struggles with the situation, Ardal O'Hanlon remarked: "I think she [Melanie] found it very tough because we've got three big grown-up kids living in the house and she's got a lot on her plate, so I think she was finding it tougher as the years went on," adding: "And I was missing them all hugely as well, so I think it made sense."

Death In Paradise's Jack Mooney left to return to London with his daughter Siobhan. (Image: BBC) SUBSCRIBE Invalid email

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy

Yet O'Hanlon didn't hold back from praising his stint on Death In Paradise, referring to it as "really amazing". Following the path set by Jack Mooney's departure, DI Neville Parker (played by Ralf Little) bows out after an enthralling four-year saga, with the season 13 finale marking his final appearance.

Fear not, for the detective baton has been passed on to incoming star, the ex-EastEnders actor Don Gilet.

Gilet shared his enthusiasm, stating unequivocally: "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."

Death in Paradise is available to watch on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

Death In Paradise star Ardal O'Hanlon shares reason behind season 9 exit

Death In Paradise star Ardal O'Hanlon shares reason behind season 9 exit

Death In Paradise star Ardal O'Hanlon shares reason behind season 9 exit

Death In Paradise star Ardal O'Hanlon shares reason behind season 9 exit

Death In Paradise star Ardal O'Hanlon shares reason behind season 9 exit