Death in Paradise fans seem to think Ardal O'Hanlon, who played DI Jack Mooney in the hit BBC series, will appear in the show's spin-off, Return to Paradise which will hit screens in Australia next month.
Ardal left Death in Paradise in series nine which is when Ralf Little took over as lead detective Neville Parker. However, on a Facebook fan page dedicated to the show, fans claimed Ardal will be appearing in the Death in Paradise spin-off, which will feature the series' first-ever female lead.
"Apparently we will see Ardal in this series in an episode," one fan said in reply to a discussion about Return to Paradise. Another said: "I have heard Jack Mooney may make an appearance but who knows."
A third went on: "Ardal will make a guest appearance in this series." Sharing another theory, someone else stated: "I'd like to see where Neville and Florence end up, but maybe it's good to have an end with a mystery."
Return to Paradise is set against the picturesque backdrop of Dolphin Cove in Australia and will introduce viewers to Detective Mackenzie Clarke, portrayed by Anna Samson.
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The synopsis for the series reads: "The former London Metropolitan police officer is known for her intuitive detective skills and a knack for solving seemingly unsolvable cases.
"Mackenzie, who left her hometown six years prior with a promise never to return, finds herself drawn back to Dolphin Cove amidst unresolved issues and lingering questions.
"Despite her successful career, she is met with a cold reception from the townsfolk, mirroring her own reluctance to be back."
The trailer for the hotly-anticipated spin-off opens with Mackenzie arguing in a taxi as she makes her way back home, declaring: "I am a paying customer," only to be met with an exasperated response: "I can't believe you came back."
She later reflects on her strained relationship with the town, saying: "It has been six years and no one here still likes me."
Return To Paradise trailer in ABC spin-off season
However, she is soon thrown into life back home after a body washes up on a beach - and it doesn't take her long to clash with another detective (Lloyd Griffith) on the case.
Sue Deeks, the Head of BBC Programme Acquisition, expressed her excitement about the show, saying: "Everything we all love about Death in Paradise, the humour, the beautiful scenery, the likeable characters, the ingenious plots - now in a fabulous Australian setting.
"I cannot wait for BBC viewers to be introduced to Detective Mack and the good (and not so good! ) folk of Dolphin Cove. What a treat we have in store!"
While the UK air date remains uncertain, audiences in Australia can look forward to 'Return to Paradise' hitting screens on ABC come September.
