Death in Paradise's JP Hooper star opens up on reuniting with former detective in spin-off after return

Tobi Bakare, known for his role as JP Hooper in Death in Paradise, is set to make a dramatic comeback to the BBC show tonight, much to the delight of fans. JP had previously departed Saint Marie with his family after receiving a promotion within the police force.

The sergeant has confirmed his return for a single episode, sparking speculation about whether he might become a permanent fixture again. The new series will also introduce Don Gilet as the main detective, DI Mervin Wilson, succeeding Ralf Little's DI Neville Parker.

In a conversation with Express.co.uk and other media ahead of the premiere, Tobi opened up about his decision to revisit his character and the possibility of joining the Death in Paradise spin-off, Beyond Paradise, potentially reuniting him with Kris Marshall.

Tobi and Kris, who portrays DI Humphrey Goodman in Beyond Paradise, had previously shared the screen in Death in Paradise before both characters left the series. Kris later returned to his role for the spin-off, which is filmed across Devon and Cornwall.

Hinting at his potential involvement in Beyond Paradise, Tobi remarked: "The spin-off of Death in Paradise... the franchise of Death in Paradise has been so interesting, I was like, 'Wow, this is some Marvel stuff'," reports the Express.

Keen to emphasise the reason behind his return, Tobi stated: "For me, Red Planet, the production company that drives the show, I just have deep respect for them. They're just a very good production company, and I'll always be open to suggestions, and if it makes sense for myself, my family, my career, and all things align, then yeah, you might see me in Cornwall with my shorts on."

He continued by explaining the motivation behind reprising his role as JP: "It