Brenda Blethyn waves to fans while filming final Vera episodes as replacement 'sealed'

Brenda Blethyn has been spotted greeting her admirers while on the set of the final instalments of ITV's beloved series Vera.

The acclaimed actress, who has become synonymous with the iconic DCI Vera Stanhope, is wrapping up filming for what will be the show's concluding year, with production taking place in the north of England. Fans were treated to Brenda's warm presence as she was seen cheerfully acknowledging their support during shoots in Gateshead.

Vera, which has captivated audiences with its gripping storylines, is set to conclude with two episodes that will form the fourteenth and ultimate series. Throughout the show's run, Vera has been at the forefront of the action, initially accompanied by DS Joe Ashworth (David Leon), followed by DS Aiden Healy (Kenny Doughty), and then welcoming back Joe, now promoted to DI.

Reflecting on her time with the series, Brenda expressed her sentiments: "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 fourteen years."

She continued with heartfelt gratitude: "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."

However, fans are fervently looking for ways to keep the show running and have called for a spin-off series. They remain hopeful that characters like Aiden or Joe can spearhead a new offshoot series after Vera bows out next year.

Amidst fan speculations on the continuation of the show with another character leading, one enthusiast commented: "Maybe there'll be a spin-off series with Joe or Aiden leading the team."

While another speculated: "They are filming two more episodes this summer, so perhaps Vera retires and Joe takes over? " One supporter confidently voiced: "Joe's the man for the job," with another expressing: "I would love a spin-off."

In similar news, actress Ibinabo Jack, who portrays DC Jacqueline Williams in the series, has verbally explored possible ways the show could make a comeback.

Speaking before the announcement was made, BBC Breakfast host Jon Kay questioned: "I suppose when Brenda steps down that surely means Vera has to end, doesn't it? You can't have Vera without Brenda."

Ibinabo rebutted: "Unless they did a prequel? Like early days?"

To this, Sally Nugent responded: "A prequel is a fabulous idea! That's what we need to know, more of Vera's backstory. It's a genius idea!"

The idea of a prequel about a young DCI Stanhope has not been confirmed by ITV.

Vera episodes are available to watch on ITVX and BBC Breakfast airs daily on BBC One from 7am.