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A fresh comedy has arrived on the BBC featuring a well-known star. Ann Droid centres on lonely widower Sue (Sue Johnston), whose son Michael (Paul Ready) purchases an AI eldercare robot to provide companionship and ensure her wellbeing.

Yet the robot, whom she names Linda (Diane Morgan), receives a frosty reception as Sue makes her feelings abundantly clear about having such technology in her house.

Throughout the six-part series, audiences will witness an unexpected connection develop between the two as the programme explores themes of isolation, bereavement, the tension between humanity and technology, and growing older.

While the opening episode broadcasts on Friday (July 17), all instalments can be streamed on BBC iPlayer, with a recognisable face making an appearance in the second episode.

When Sue encounters her friend Eileen (Kathryn Hunter) awaiting transport to her aunt's 108th birthday celebration, the driver who arrives pulls up in a vehicle that's seen better days.

The taxi driver greeting her is a chap named Brian, portrayed by Death in Paradise actor Danny John-Jules. Despite Sue pointing out the questionable state of his vehicle, Eileen reassures her, explaining that Brian has been her driver for more than four decades, reports the Express.

He responds: "And I've only been sober for the last five!" Subsequently, Brian makes another appearance when he returns Eileen to meet Sue and Linda.

Before departing, he remarks: "Oh, I need some more customer reviews. Preferably ones above the two stars I'm getting at the moment. Would you mind?

"Oh, and don't mention I got lost and had four pints at lunch or that I ran out of petrol and we had to walk the last 2km, ok?"

Actor Danny John-Jules became a beloved fixture on Death in Paradise when he joined the cast in 2011 as one of the original ensemble members for the programme's debut series.

He portrayed Officer Dwayne Myers for seven years before his departure in 2018. Nevertheless, devotees of the BBC drama have witnessed him return to the role periodically, with his most recent appearance coming in the 2024 Christmas special.

Despite relinquishing his badge upon his initial exit, supporters remain optimistic that he might feature in forthcoming series.

Ann Droid is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.