ITV Vera announce special episode to mark final series - but fans will be disappointed
ITV bosses have announced an exciting Vera documentary to mark the end of the hit drama series.
Brenda Blethyn is set to depart her role as the much-loved Detective Chief Inspector Vera Stanhope after one more series of the ITV drama, with fans gutted to see the show coming to the end.
As part of the final series, there will be two feature length episodes to mark the end of the series, with David Leon returning as DI Joe Ashworth, as well as Jon Morrison back as DC Kenny Lockhart, Riley Jones as DC Mark Edwards, Sarah Kameela Impey as pathologist Dr Paula Bennett, and Rhiannon Clements as DC Steph Duncan.
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The two episodes will follow Vera as she goes on a personal journey, with her final case bringing her back to her roots when a body is found at the foot of The Dark Wives, a legendary set of local stones she frequented as a child.
As well as the two episodes, there will also be a celebratory documentary to mark the end of the show. There will be exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the final series as well as discussions with the cast and crew about the impact of Vera.
It has been confirmed that David Leon, Jon Morrison and Riley Jones will all be interviewed for the documentary special and author Ann Cleeves will also feature in the documentary. However, fans of the show will be devastated to know that Kenny Doughty, who played DS Aiden Healy for several years, will not be back for the documentary special.
Whilst David, Jon and Riley will discuss their favourite memories of working with Brenda and the unique bonds they have formed, it looks unlikely that Kenny will make a return to the show for the special one-off documentary.
Kenny departed the show over 18 months ago, and at the time, he issued a lengthy statement to confirm his exit.
"After 8 years & 35 Vera films I’ve made the difficult decision of handing over DS Healy’s badge. I can confirm I am leaving Vera. I want to thank everyone who’s made this amazing time so joyous, ITV, Silverprint, all the brilliant cast and crew BUT of course my buddy & inspiration Brenda Blethyn. The perfect leading star who I owe so much to. I feel lucky to have you as a friend, you make me howl with laughter & have been a rock for me over the years. I can’t thank you enough. Precious times," he wrote at the time.
"And finally the Vera fans: without you and your support I would never have made so many films. You really are the best fans in the world. Thank you so much for your loyalty & love for the show. X."