ITV bosses have confirmed who will be returning to Vera for the final season of the crime drama, which is set to conclude in 2025.
Star Brenda Blethyn, 78, previously confirmed she would return for one final series of the beloved ITV drama, and she won’t be the only familiar face returning to Northumberland.
An ITV spokesperson confirmed to Chronicle Live that the show’s fan-favourite series regulars would be returning to conclude their stories.
“The core regular team will return alongside Brenda – David Leon, Jon Morrison, Rhiannon Clements, Sarah Kameela Impey and Riley Jones,” they said.
The spokesperson also suggested that viewers can expect the last two episodes in 2025.
While storylines for the final season remain under wraps, stars Brenda, who plays the titular DI Vera Stanhope, and Riley, who plays DC Mark Edwards, have shared a few details about what’s been happening behind-the-scenes.
Taking to X, formerly Twitter, the duo confirmed filming has finished on the upcoming fourteenth season of Vera.
Riley shared an image of Mark Edwards at his desk, writing “Case closed” alongside it.
Meanwhile, Brenda wrote: “Travelling home after finishing filming of Series 14 of VERA. Tired and emotional.”
Brenda continued, paying tribute to the long running show.
“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.
“I’ll be forever grateful to the wonderful Ann Cleeves who created Vera and Elaine Collins, who saw fit to cast me in the role,” she said.
Their followers responded swiftly, many expressing sadness over the conclusion of the popular series.
Responding to Brenda, one fan wrote: “Thank you for all your hard work Brenda and all the cast and crew for bringing us our beloved Vera, “
While another added: “Looking forward to hearing about your next venture once the lids on the tin of film for the final episode of Vera. Don’t forget about Northumberland once you leave us … you know you’re an adopted northern lass now, so come back anytime.”
In response, the TV star said: “I fully intend to. I love the place.”
Since its launch back in 2011 Vera has gripped ITV viewers with its crime stories - and dozens of actors have appeared in the show, including:
Reacting to Riley’s post, another fan gushed: “Thank you, Riley. It’s been a real pleasure watching you in Vera. Loved how you developed your character; you had some cracking lines that made us smile as well as bringing the chips in too late!! We’ll wait to see what’s next for you.” (sic)
“An end of an era. I loved your character and how he came along and became part of the team!” added a second Vera fan.
Meanwhile, a third commented: “Gutted the next series of Vera will be the last. It has been one of the best shows ever. Will be missed!”
Although Vera may be coming to an end, Brenda isn’t going anywhere.
In fact, she has already lined up her next project. She will star opposite Guardians of the Galaxy alum Karen Gillan in the upcoming period comedy Fools.
The movie follows the 16th-century English Queen and depicts the little-known story of her friendship with her female court jester Jane (Patsy Ferran). It will also star Jim Broadbent as the ambitious Cardinal Pole who is plotting to usurp the throne from Mary.
Brenda’s role in the movie is yet to be announced.
Vera is available to stream on ITVX.
