Vera Brenda Blethyn's ITV replacement 'rumbled' as stars backed for promotion to lead role

Brenda Blethyn will soon step back in front of cameras to film what will be her final scenes as Vera, but, rather than that being the end of the hit drama, several candidates have come into the frame to 'replace' the much loved actress and front a spin-off. And fans have very different opinions on who they think should get the job.

Already a well established by the time she first donned DCI Stanhope's trench coat and fishing hat in 2011, thanks to her BAFTA winning and Oscar nominated role in Secrets & Lies, as well as starring in huge movies like Pride and Prejudice; for the last 13 years, Brenda has been become synonymous with Vera, as millions of viewers across the world continue to be invested in her sleuthing exploits.

Given the global appeal of Vera, there was much upset earlier this week when it was announced that it will wrap up with two final feature length episodes, thought to be based on Ann Cleeves' new novel The Dark Wives. Production on the tales will get going in the North East next week and, as well as hoping to catch a glimpse of the Vera cast and crew in action, fans have already started to speculate on the prospect of there being a Vera spin-off and, if one should come to fruition, who will front it.

READ MORE: Vera's Ann Cleeves 'sad' about fate of ITV drama as author speaks out to devastated fans

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While bookies Betway are tipping Kenny Doughty for a Vera return to lead a potential spin-off, many fans believe should anyone step into Brenda's shoes, it will be David Leon, given that he made a shock comeback to the show last year, having played original sidekick Joe Ashworth for the first four series.

A number of viewers have declared that 'Ashworth' has a nice ring to it, with one taking to X to write: "I think I manifested @David_J_Leon back into the show btw, so maybe I can manifest a spin off … “Ashworth”?? Several others also backed David to lead a Vera spin-off, but there have also been calls for Kenny to come back as Aiden, after bowing out in December in Vera Christmas special, The Rising Tide.

Making that judgement, one fan posted: "IF ANYTHING IF THERE WAS GOING TO BE A SPIN OFF IT SHOULD BE WITH Aiden as DI Kenny and Mark as Sergeants and 2 new DCS" as another, sharing the same opinion, reacted: "I would rather Aidan"