Death in Paradise fans react as the 'best detective' reunites with co-stars after quitting

Death in Paradise fans were treated to a dose of nostalgia on Monday night as the BBC aired a repeat episode from 2020, featuring fan favourites Neville Parker (Ralf Little) and Officer Ruby Patterson (Shyko Amos), who have both since left the series. The throwback episode also saw appearances from Officer JP Hooper (Tobi Bakare) and Detective Madeleine Dumas (Aude Legastelois).

The Saint Marie police force was depicted solving a murder at a beauty salon, with a twist involving Ruby's ex-partner as both the groom and prime suspect. Viewers took to social media to express their delight at seeing the beloved characters again.

One fan quipped on Twitter: "Good thing only one murder happens at a time since it takes the whole police department to solve one case #DeathinParadise."

Others tweeted their enthusiasm, saying things like: "Oooh Death in Paradise is on," and commenting on the weather with: "It's raining outside so it's sunny time #deathinparadise."

Appreciation for the BBC's choice to broadcast an episode starring Neville Parker was evident, with a viewer posting: "Thank you BBC for putting an episode of Death in Paradise on with Neville Parker #ralflittle#nevilleparker," as reported by the Express.

While one fan was thrilled to catch a Ralf Little episode they hadn't seen before, another jubilantly declared: "Yes, the best detective is back!"

Aude had a short stint on the show, appearing in just 10 episodes alongside Ardal O'Hanlon as Jack Mooney, before sharing the screen with Ralf Little in series nine.

Shyko, a two-season veteran of Death in Paradise, left the show between seasons, with it being confirmed at the time that she wouldn't be returning for the tenth series.

Tobi, who portrayed JP Hooper for four