ITV Vera fans emotional after creator makes 'bombshell' announcement
ITV Vera fans emotional after creator makes 'bombshell' announcement
Vera fans have been dealt another blow following Brenda Blethyn's departure from the ITV series
Brenda Blethyn says 'it was time' for Vera to come to an end
Vera enthusiasts are reeling as Ann Cleeves, the creator of the beloved character and series, delivered a poignant update on her career.
Ann, the mastermind behind Detective Vera Stanhope, has confirmed that her forthcoming book will be the final chapter in the saga.
During her appearance at the Bath Literature Festival, Ann revealed that the 12th book in the detective series would be the swansong for DCI Stanhope.
"There will only be one more Vera novel," she disclosed, before playfully hinting: "But I probably won't kill her off," reports Chronicle Live.
"Well, that was a bombshell, wasn't it?" she quipped, acknowledging the gravity of her announcement.
Vera's Brenda Blethyn and author Ann Cleeves on the set of the ITV drama
(Image: ITV )
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In the wake of this revelation, fans have flocked to social media to express their dismay, with many feeling devastated.
A succinct lament appeared on a Facebook fan page: "Oh no!".
"She can't do that," protested another, while someone else queried: "Does this mean there will be no more Vera books?"
Another comment read: "She won't be able to do it."
A fan expressed their adoration for her work with a tearful emoji: "I love all of her books."
David Leon and Brenda Blethyn
(Image: (Image: (Image: ITV)) )
This news marks the end of an era that commenced in 1999 with the debut of the first Vera Stanhope novel. Her most recent publication, The Dark Wives, is the eleventh instalment in the series and is currently available.
Earlier in the year, Vera's loyal viewers were moved to tears as Brenda Blethyn portrayed her final moments as Vera Stanhope.
Although Brenda is amenable to the idea of a Vera special in the future, she has shared her reasons for leaving, including a desire to cherish more time with her family.
Brenda Blethyn as Vera Stanhope
(Image: ITV )
"It was a lovely summer back in 2023, and I came to realise I hadn't had a summer with my husband for 14 years," the actress stated.
"Naturally, I missed my family, and my dog Jack, although he was with me in the Northeast.
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"But working all day meant our time together was short. I love my Vera family, but I love my other family too."
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