British acting legend sparks hope of TV show’s return weeks after finale
Could there be more on the way?
Just weeks after British star Brenda Blethyn bowed out as TV detective Vera Stanhope, she’s confirmed she would be keen on a one-off special.
The 78-year-old actor played the beloved ITV character for 14 years, solving crimes in Northumberland as she nears retirement, based on the novels by Ann Cleeves.
The ‘semi-retired’ actor emotionally wrapped up the series in January with one final investigation with plans to spend more time with her family now she has concluded her stint as the fictional Detective Chief Inspector.
But she’s already thinking about a possible reprisal which many fans will be delighted to hear.
‘A special would be nice. It’s definitely one of my favourite roles I’ve done. I love the character,’ she told Daily Star newspaper’s HotTV column.
The Pride and Prejudice star added that the major change in her life will hit her when spring comes – the usual time she goes to film the new series of the show.
Vera ended at the start of January after 14 years (Picture: Helen Williams/Shutterstock)‘When we get to March and I’d normally be packing my bag to go up north to film, I will be sad. I will miss it. I had a great time doing it,’ she added.
As well as the interest in a one-off special, Brenda is also hosting a fan event later this year to discuss all things Vera for devoted fans.
The Newcastle-based goodbye show, Vera – End of an Era, will be hosted by former BBC broadcaster Steph McGovern with author Ann also present to delve into the show’s best scenes and reflect on the final series.
The synopsis reads: ‘It’s an unmissable chance for fans to bid a fond farewell to a much-loved show and celebrate one of crime fiction’s greatest detectives.
The decision to bid adieu to Vera in the first place was not an easy one.
‘I shall probably regret the decision soon, but Vera takes up quite a lot of my time. Filming a series means six months of the year away from home,’ she told Saga Magazine at the time.
Then added: ‘The people I work with do feel like family, but I’ve also got my own family down south.’
For those not quite ready to let go, there is also a companion documentary, Vera: Farewell Pet, offering behind-the-scenes insights into the show as it ended.
In an interview with Metro, Brenda reflected on the show’s legacy and impact on fans.
She will talk all things Vera at a special fan event later this year (Picture: Helen Williams/Shutterstock)She recalled: ‘People are sad that it’s ending. I opened a fete in Northumberland for a retirement care home and one lady was crying. She said to me, “It’s my companion – it’s my friend. I look forward to seeing her.”‘
In a statement saying goodbye to Vera, she shared: ‘Working on Vera has been a joy from beginning to end and I’m sad to be saying Cheerio. But I am so proud of our achievements over the last 14 years.
‘I’ll be forever grateful to the wonderful Ann Cleeves who created Vera and to Elaine Collins who saw fit to cast me in the role.
‘The producers, dream cast and crew have been fabulous and I’m going to miss them, but I won’t forget their huge talent, the camaraderie, laughter or kindness we shared nor the friendship of the people of the North East and our fans worldwide. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.’
Tickets are now available for Vera – End of an Era. Vera is available to stream on ITVX.
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