Following the announcement of Brenda Blethyn’s departure from the hit ITV crime drama “Vera,” fans have been eagerly speculating about who could replace her as the lead character in a potential spin-off series.
After filming the upcoming 14th series this summer, the Academy and Emmy-nominated actress will bid farewell to her iconic role as DCI Vera Stanhope. The new series, which will feature two feature-length episodes, will bring the total number of “Vera” episodes to 56.
Many fans have taken to social media to share their thoughts on who could replace Blethyn in the lead role. On a Vera Facebook fan page, several fans suggested that Joe Ashworth (David Leon), DCI Stanhope’s sidekick, would be a suitable choice to take over as the franchise’s main character.
“Maybe there’ll be a spin-off series with Joe or Aiden leading the team,” one fan wrote. “So sorry she is retiring, but wish her the very best,” added another, before suggesting that Joe could take over after Vera retires. A third commented, “I would love a spin-off,” while a fourth simply stated, “Joe’s the man for the job.”
Brenda Blethyn herself confirmed in a heartfelt statement that season 14 would be her last. “Working on Vera has been a joy from beginning to end, and I’m sad to be saying Cheerio,” the 78-year-old actress said. “But I am so proud of our achievements over the last fourteen years.”
While fans speculate about the possibility of a spin-off series, they will have two more episodes of “Vera” to enjoy with Brenda Blethyn in the lead role before she departs the show.
