Death in Paradise favourite Ardal O'Hanlon has spilled the beans on why he waved goodbye to the sun-soaked BBC detective series. The 58-year-old actor, famed for his roles in iconic sitcoms like Father Ted and My Hero, captured hearts as DI Jack Mooney from 2017 to 2020.
But after a three-year stint solving crimes in paradise, Ardal announced in 2019 that he was hanging up his detective hat. In a previous interview with Radio Times, the actor discussed why he left the show.
Ardal explained that his decision to leave was driven by a desire to refocus on his stand-up comedy career and to cherish more family time, especially since the show's Caribbean filming schedule kept him away from home.
"I suppose I didn't think I'd be doing anything for a fourth series," he confessed. "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."
Despite the gruelling environment, Ardal reminisced that his experience on Death In Paradise was "really amazing". The beloved TV star, who is a father to Emily, Rebecca, and Red with his wife Melanie, also mentioned that family considerations played a part in his decision to step down, reports OK!.
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"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," he said.
"And I was missing them all hugely as well, so I think it made sense."
Following his departure from the much-loved series, it was announced that Ralf Little, 44, would be taking over the role of Detective Inspector Neville Parker on Death in Paradise.
The actor was ecstatic about joining the BBC show, stating it took him "less than 0.0005 seconds" to accept the part.
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However despite being the show's longest-standing detective, earlier this year, Ralf confirmed he was leaving the show.
Soon after, show bosses confirmed former EastEnders star Don Gilet would be taking his place as the new DI.
“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," Don beamed.
"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!”
Death in Paradise is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
