Vera star Brenda Blethyn gives update on future of show after co-star's exit

21 January 2024 , 21:23

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Vera star Brenda Blethyn gives update on future of show after co-star's exit

Vera star Brenda Blethyn has put viewers' minds at rest by confirming the future of the ITV show.

Earlier this month, the ITV drama returned for its thirteenth series this evening - with David Leon back as DS Joe Ashworth after Aiden Healy star Kenny Doughty quit the show at the end of the recent Christmas special. At the start of the new series, Vera was left alone and without a sidekick but Joe's return left Vera feeling a bit put out.

Asked about the future for the series and if she'll be back for another stint last year, Brenda gave a six-word answer: "At the moment there's nothing planned." The DCI Vera Stanhope actress added: "But that’s not to say they’re not talking about it. There might be a winding up. I don’t know. Ann Cleeves is also writing her 11th Vera book. So, there’s also that to consider. But a whole series? I think not. We’ll see."

Vera star Brenda Blethyn gives update on future of show after co-star's exit (SCU)

Brenda has now shared a further update on the future of the show. Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, the actress reassured fans that it wouldn't be the last episode of the series. When one fan asked: "Why are lots here saying this is the last #Vera?? Have I missed something??", Brenda replied: "It's not the last."

Fans of the ITV show were quick to share their relief after Brenda shared the update, as one gushed: "Oh thank goodness! Love Vera but we need many more episodes. Three isn't nearly enough. We need at least 12. And they need to bring back Aiden. Missing him this series."

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Another echoed: "THANK YOU!!! Vera is hands down my favorite show! So glad for your confirmation - you’ve made my day." Another fan from Down Under added: "Thank goodness for that Brenda. We love Vera over here in Australia." While someone else gushed: "My life wouldn't be the same without this show. OBSESSED! Thanks for the update."

It comes after Vera fans were left heartbroken after Kenny Doughty announced that he was leaving the hit ITV show last year. The actor had played DS Aiden Healy on the ITV drama show for eight years before revealing he was stepping down ahead of the new set of episodes this year.

David Leon has returned to his role as DS Joe Ashworth, having departed the show years ago when Joe moved to Newcastle. Both Kenny and Ibinabo Jack, who has played DC Jacqueline 'Jac' Williams since 2018, didn't return for the thirteenth series, but Brenda Blethyn had previously said she was overjoyed to have David back in his brand new role.

Taking to social media in August, Kenny posted a bittersweet message with fans following his exit news. Sharing a photo of himself and his co-star Brenda, he shared the good news that the show had picked up a NTA nomination: "So proud we have been nominated for an NTA at this years awards. And in my final series!! Fingers crossed & good luck to all the nominations! #ntas #fingerscrossed."

Fans rushed to the comment section to congratulate the show on their nomination. "Congratulations on the nomination. Fingers crossed this great series wins. Can't believe it's the final series, feel bereft!" one wrote, whilst a second added: "Will miss you in the new series. thanks for the great acting over the years."

Kenny confirmed his departure back in March in a statement, explaining: "After 8 years & 35 Vera films I’ve made the difficult decision of handing over DS Healy’s badge. I can confirm I am leaving Vera. I want to thank everyone who’s made this amazing time so joyous, ITV, Silverprint, all the brilliant cast and crew BUT of course my buddy & inspiration Brenda Blethyn.

"The perfect leading star who I owe so much to. I feel lucky to have you as a friend, you make me howl with laughter & have been a rock for me over the years. I can’t thank you enough. Precious times. And finally the Vera fans: without you and your support I would never have made so many films. You really are the best fans in the world. Thank you so much for your loyalty & love for the show."

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Susan Knox