Kris Marshall leaving, Ardal O’Hanlon joining the BBC’s ‘Death in Paradise’

Feb. 4 (UPI) — Irish actor Ardal O’Hanlon has joined the cast of the BBC’s Caribbean crime drama Death in Paradise.

Best known for his work in the comedy series Father Ted and My Hero, he debuted as police detective Jack Mooney in this week’s Season 6 episode of Death in Paradise.

O’Hanlon is taking over as series lead from outgoing cast member Kris Marshall, who has played Humphrey Goodman for four seasons. O’Hanlon will continue with the show through Season 7, which is to premiere next year.

“I am delighted to be joining Death in Paradise and exploring what’s made Mooney up and leave London for a life in the Caribbean. I’ve already had a taste of filming in Guadeloupe and can’t wait to get back,” O’Hanlon said in a statement.

“Death in Paradise has been an incredible experience, six months every year filming on a tropical island in the sunshine — what’s not to love! Humphrey was socially awkward and clumsy, but also brilliant. I’ll miss him, but it’s time to hand over to someone new and spend more time with my family. I know Ardal will do a superb job and I just hope Humphrey gets a happy ending!” Marshall added.

The British broadcaster said the nature of Humphrey’s exit is being kept under wraps until his final episode airs on Thursday.