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

Ann Cleeves has admitted she is 'sad' that Vera is coming to an end, after it was announced that the much loved drama, based on her books, will wrap up next year.

Brenda Blethyn's no nonsense detective is the creation of North East based author Ann, with Vera launching on ITV in 2011, after the character first came to life in the pages of Ann's series of DCI Stanhope novels. As well as penning the tales that have been poured over by readers and viewers alike, Ann has worked closely with the cast and crew, particularly leading lady Brenda, meaning that fans were very keen to get her take on things, when ITV announced on Monday that Vera will end in 2025.

As news of Vera's future became a big talking point on social media, Ann took to X (Twitter) to respond to a fan who wrote: 'I’ve loved watching Brenda Blethyn as “Vera”, but this seems the right time to bow out with two more films still to be screened. She has put flesh on the bone of Ann Cleeves’ great character and brought a genuine humanity to a consistently good series.'

READ MORE: ITV Vera to end after 14 series as Brenda Blethyn confirms exit as famous detective

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Reacting to the message, Ann replied: "Of course, I’m sad Vera is coming to an end, but what a ride it’s been! Thanks so much to the magnificent @BrendaBlethyn and the team."

Ann's response itself got plenty of reaction from her followers, with one telling her: "I'm crushed. Loved this show and am so sad to hear the news" and another commenting: "Thank you for creating Vera and thank you to @BrendaBlethyn for bringing Vera Stanhope to such vivid life. I will treasure the series always & look forward to the final episodes. Bittersweet, but, all things must end."

Ann also made mention of her forthcoming Vera book The Dark Wives, having teased it during an appearance alongside Brenda at the Royal Television Society North East awards at the end of February.