Former Death in Paradise favourite Ralf Little has announced an exciting new acting venture that will see him transition from tropical detective drama to the shadowy world of Cold War espionage on stage. The actor, who portrayed Detective Inspector Neville Parker in the long-running BBC series, has secured the lead role in the nationwide tour of John le Carré's celebrated spy thriller The Spy Who Came in From the Cold.
From Saint Marie to Secret Missions
Little, who holds the record as Death in Paradise's longest-serving detective, will take on the challenging role of disillusioned British intelligence operative Alec Leamas in this highly anticipated theatrical production. The tour launches at Curve Leicester on 12 March 2026 and will continue across the UK until August 2026, bringing le Carré's masterpiece to audiences nationwide.
A Prestigious Literary Adaptation
This marks the first-ever theatrical adaptation of work by John le Carré, the undisputed master of contemporary espionage fiction whose celebrated novels include Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy and The Night Manager. The stage version has been adapted by acclaimed playwright and screenwriter David Eldridge, known for works including Festen and End.
The production follows a successful trajectory that began with a sell-out debut at Chichester Festival Theatre in 2024, followed by a transfer to London's West End at @sohoplace in November 2025. The West End run is scheduled to conclude on 21 February 2026, with Little taking over the role originated by Rory Keenan for the subsequent national tour.
The Story of Alec Leamas
The production's synopsis reveals a compelling narrative: "British intelligence officer Alec Leamas is weary, hardened, and ready to come in from the cold. But when spymaster George Smiley presents one final mission - dangerous, deceptive, and deeply personal - Leamas agrees to stay in the game."
"Dispatched into enemy territory, he finds his convictions tested and his defences breached by Liz Gold, a quietly defiant librarian whose compassion threatens to thaw his frostbitten heart."
Little's Personal Connection to the Material
Discussing his casting in this prestigious role, Little expressed genuine enthusiasm for the project, revealing a long-standing personal connection to le Carré's work. "It is a huge privilege to be stepping into the shoes of one of John le Carré's great literary creations, Alec Leamas, as we bring the murky world of his Cold War masterpiece to life on stage," he said.
"I first read The Spy Who Came in From the Cold when I was 16, and it has stayed with me ever since. Reading David Eldridge's brilliant script, I once again found myself drawn into the story's unexpected twists and turns, its high-stakes game of cat-and-mouse between East and West, which David has captured so thrillingly in the play."
Contemporary Relevance of Cold War Classic
The actor highlighted the enduring relevance of the 1960s novel, noting: "Despite being written in the 60s, it feels startlingly relevant to the times we are living in now. I can't wait to share this story with audiences old and new as we take it to cities right across the UK."
Little's departure from Death in Paradise was confirmed in March 2024, with actor Don Gilet announced as his successor in the role of Mervin Wilson. Reflecting on his time with the popular detective series, Little stated: "My time on Saint Marie has come to an end - what an end! New adventures await Neville, and he got to sail away into the sunset with his best friend. Who knows what happens for them next!"
He added heartfelt thanks to viewers: "I want to say an enormous thank you to everyone who watched and supported the show when I arrived four and a half years ago. It was quite a relief that the response has been overwhelming, and it's been an absolute privilege and a pleasure to bring Neville Parker to all of you and to share his quite profound journey with you."
The production company has indicated that additional casting announcements for the touring show are expected imminently, building anticipation for what promises to be one of the most significant theatrical events of 2026.
