Vera: DS Joe Ashworth joins Vera in her garden
Fans of ITV's Vera are bracing themselves for a potential character death as filming wraps up on series 14. Brenda Blethyn, who has portrayed the title character since 2011, confirmed her departure from the show, sparking speculation among fans about possible plot twists in the final series, slated to air in 2025.
On Reddit, some viewers suggested that DCI Vera Stanhope herself might meet her end, referencing a past storyline involving her health. One user speculated: "They're gonna kill her off, aren't they? The angina is finally going to come up again... noooo."
Another fan recalled Vera's dietary habits, writing: "Am I wrong in thinking the only food I remember Vera eating was a bacon butty?" while another mentioned an episode where Joe tried to encourage healthier eating due to her angina symptoms.
Fans were also saddened by the news of the show ending, with one lamenting: "That's made me sad, no more Vera."
Further theories arose when a stunt double was spotted standing in for Brenda during the final episodes, leading to speculation that a daring stunt could mark the end for the iconic detective, reports Chronicle Live.
But when the woman turned around, fans were shocked to find out it wasnt Brenda a twist that led many to fear Vera could face her demise in the upcoming final episodes of season 14. The series concluded filming its last season in July 2024.
In a heartfelt farewell statement confirming her departure from the beloved crime drama, Brenda said with emotion: "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 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."
Brenda added, "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."
