Death in Paradise has been a massively popular series since it first began in 2011. Now season nine is nearly in reach as viewers return to the Island of Saint Marie once more – but this time will be DI Mooney’s (played by Ardal O’Hanlon) last outing. Ahead of its return, the BBC has teased who could be replacing him with a first glimpse at the new character.
Who will replace Ardal O’Hanlon?
Since the BBC revealed Ardal O’Hanlon was leaving Death in Paradise in season nine, fans have been wondering just who could replace him.
There has been some talk Kris Marshall could return again, as well as Danny John-Jules.
However, now the BBC has released a first look at the new character in a brand new image.
While his face and name are not revealed in the teaser, there are some clues to who he could be.
READ MORE: Death in Paradise: Why is Ardal O’Hanlon leaving Death in Paradise?
The first reveal is the new DI will be another man so it seems the series will be following the same pattern as previous replacements, which has seen a number of great British actors take on the role of the police inspector.
The only other hints about the new character can be seen from his backpack, which shows he’s got suncream packed away – could this mean another fish out of water on the Caribbean island?
Fans will remember that in the past, nearly all of the incoming DIs have struggled to deal with the heat of the island.
Along with the release of the image, the BBC also revealed viewers will not have to wait until the series airs in order to find out who the new DI is.
READ MORE: Death in Paradise: DI Jack Mooney dies in dramatic twist? Here’s how
In fact, it will be revealed ahead of time – but no information has been revealed about when viewers will found out yet.
Although while the new actor may be revealed soon, the ins and outs of how Mooney is set to leave the island will only be revealed when the season returns.
The news O’Hanlon was leaving was announced earlier this month when he revealed he was going on to pursue new acting challenges.
In a statement, he said: “I’ve spent the last four summers in Guadeloupe playing DI Jack Mooney (solving over 20 murder cases in my time there!).”
READ MORE: Death in Paradise: Will Kris Marshall return as Ardal O’Hanlon quits?
He added: “It’s been a hugely rewarding and unforgettable experience, working with incredibly talented actors, directors and crew while discovering a magical part of the world.
“However, it’s time to move on and explore other opportunities – preferably nearer the Arctic Circle.
“I’m confident that Death in Paradise will go from strength to strength and viewers will share my enthusiasm for Jack’s successor.”
In the statement it was also revealed O’Hanlon will be leaving the show mid-way through the ninth series.
READ MORE: Death in Paradise: Who is replacing Ardal O’Hanlon?
The latest outing will return to the island of Saint Marie as the police officers investigate a new spate of bizarre crimes.
Ahead of its return, the BBC has also revealed a little bit about what could happen in the new season.
This includes actor Aude Legastelois being promoted to a full-time cast member of the series with her character DS Madeleine Dumas.
The synopsis said: “Series nine will see the Honoré Police team get to know their new DS, Madeleine, while a surprise kiss catches Jack off guard…”
Joining Dumas in returning once again will be Tobi Bakare as Officer JP Hooper, Shyko Amos as Officer Ruby Patterson and Don Warrington as Commissioner Selwyn Patterson.
Death in Paradise season 9 returns to the BBC in January 2020.
