ITV’s enduring series Vera has cemented itself as a prime-time favourite since it premiered in 2011. The beloved mystery drama is set to air its final episode this month, drawing the curtain on an incredible run.
Actress Brenda Blethyn, who brought DCI Vera Stanhope to life with her quintessential hat and raincoat, will also depart from her role after thirteen years. But she isn’t alone; several members of the cast and crew have been with the show since the beginning.
Brenda has heaped praise on the dedicated team behind Vera, expressing admiration for the crew’s hard work throughout the production.
She commented: “A number of the crew have worked on Vera since the very start along with some of the supporting artistes. They were all very loyal. There was never an ego in sight.
Brenda Blethyn admits she’s ‘not sure’ she’s made right decision as Vera ends
(Image: ITV)
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She added that the professionalism and skill of the crew made filming a true joy. She commented: “Everyone was skilled at their job and happy to be doing it. And they were nice people. So it really was a pleasure. People just couldn’t do enough for you. Nobody was complaining. And they work so hard, the crew.”
Reflecting on her off-camera experiences, Brenda admired the security’s ability to discreetly ensure her safety when navigating public areas during shoots, reports Chronicle Live.
She conveyed her appreciation by saying: “I hadn’t even noticed security following me. Looking after me. They’re making sure no harm came to me as I walk out into the crowd.’ Without being in my face. Such a skill.”
Vera first aired back in 2011
(Image: ITV)
Lastly, Brenda acknowledged the impact the show has had on employment over the years, noting it influenced her yearly decision on continuing her role in the beloved ITV drama.
She added: “Nobody imposed that on me. I was simply aware of it. And I knew everyone wanted to continue. I really enjoyed working on Vera and I’m not sure I’ve made the right decision even now!
“But I do want to spend time with my family. That’s the overriding factor in my decision-making. I’m comforted by the fact that many of the crew live locally in the North East and, hopefully, there are lots of other jobs for them up there. Including the proposed Crown Works Studios in Sunderland which aims to create some 8000 jobs.”
The final Vera series airs on New Year’s Day
(Image: ITV)
Vera’s final series is going to be a special send-off with two two-hour episodes, set to broadcast in early January. The opening episode, titled Inside, will see Vera dealing with a potentially life-altering choice amidst working on two separate investigations.
The very last episode, named The Dark Wives, promises to be gripping as it plots the scene: A short synopsis reads: “A student violently killed and dumped at the foot of three mythical monoliths and a missing girl sets Vera on an investigation that triggers memories from her own childhood.”
Vera is available to watch on ITVX.