Death in Paradise fans distracted as former Corrie star makes debut in finale – and looks worlds away from soap role
The actor starred in the ITV soap as a teenager back in 2002.
BBC Death in Paradise viewers were left stunned after spotting a former Coronation Street star in the series 13 finale.
The latest episode of the hit BBC drama that aired on Sunday night and saw Ralf Little bow out of the show for good as his character DI Neville Parker sailed off into the sunset with DS Florence Cassell.
But viewers were left seriously distracted as they recognised a familiar face in the episode.
The Death in Paradise character Taylor Fielding was played by former child actor Richard Fleeshman.
Taking to social media, one viewer said: “Great to see Richard Fleeshman #deathinparadise.”
Another wrote: “Ohhh it’s Richard Fleeshman! #deathinparadise”
A third penned: “He’s come a long way since Corrie. #deathinparadise!”
Richard Fleeshman was on our screens in Coronation Street when he was just 12.
He played Craig Harris on the ITV soap from 2002 to 2006.
Craig’s most notable storylines included adopting a goth persona and becoming the first boyfriend of Rosie Webster (Helen Flanagan).
He’s also a singer and songwriter, and when he was 13 became the youngest celebrity contestant to win Stars in Their Eyes in 2003.
Richard signed a major record deal with Universal in 2007 and he supported Elton John twice.
He went on to become an established West End and Broadway performer, starring in shows such as Legally Blonde and Ghost.
Viewers may also recognise him from the recurring role of Ken on Netflix’s The Sandman, and Richard has also played Lt. James Brice on Syfy’s The Ark since 2023.
He is also the son of former Brookside and Coronation Street actress Sue Jenkins and actor/director David Fleeshman.
Death in Paradise is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
