Death in Paradise star Ralf Little has responded to fans' concerns that he is leaving the popular BBC drama.
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Fears of the actor's departure were prompted by a throwback photo posted to Instagram on Wednesday, in which Ralf reflected on the day he got offered the role of DI Neville Parker.
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Sharing a snap of the Two Pints of Lager star standing in front of an idyllic backdrop at the top of a cliff in Ireland, he wrote in the caption: "28th May 2019. The Cliffs of Moher, Ireland. The next day I got the call to say I'd been cast in @deathinparadiseofficial and my life changed forever.
"Not a day goes by I don't appreciate how lucky I am. Appreciate every one of you who watched and took DI Neville Parker into your hearts."
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Fans quickly noticed that Ralf used the past tense to refer to his time on the show and took to the comments to express their concern.
© Photo: InstagramRalf shared a throwback post to Instagram
One person wrote: "'Watched', 'took' past tense? Surely not!" while another added: "Ooo past tense????? Please just be a slip... 'Watched' 'took'."
Ralf promptly put his followers at ease, leaving the comment: "Watched it when I first started I mean. Never know how an audience is going to react to an incoming character, especially on a show that's so well loved."
Other fans took the opportunity to praise the star's performance in the programme, with one person writing: "Love Death in Paradise! Can't wait for the next series to get my Caribbean fix!" while another added: "Love, love, love Neville. You play the part so well and long may you continue, please."
© Photo: BBCFans were concerned that Ralf might be leaving the show
A third viewer agreed, commenting: "You're fab in Death in Paradise Ralf. I love it!"
The cast are currently filming season 12 of the drama, which is set to return to screens in 2023.
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