Brenda Blethyn has said she would love to return to her starring role in Vera, the ITV drama based on Ann Cleeves' bestselling books. The 80-year-old actress left the series in early 2025 after more than a decade playing DCI Vera Stanhope, but has now said she would jump at the chance of a comeback if it ever came about.
Brenda's hopes for a return
In a new interview with Woman's Day, she said: "In a drop of her bucket hat. Yes, if they did a special or something, of course I would. It was a wonderful job."
The comments come as the author shared an update on the Vera novels. Just weeks ago, Ann appeared at the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, where she confirmed she was writing the twelfth novel in the series.
Author confirms Vera's fate
Ann shared that she has completed writing the final Vera novel in what she hopes is "a fitting way to end it". She added: "I loved writing it. Brenda hasn't read it yet, so I'll be sending it to her as she's such a great reader."
Meanwhile, Brenda said: "She'll still be there floating about, she's not dead, is she?" to which Ann replied: "No, I haven't killed her. I can tell you I haven't killed her."
Brenda's new role
Brenda has since taken on a very different role in the remake of A Woman of Substance, relishing the chance to leave Vera's familiar wardrobe behind. Discussing the new series, she said: "It's a great story traversing the 20th century in all its highs, lows and innovations. What's not to like? It's exciting and it ticks all the boxes. It's sexy and tragic, then it arrives at her being the richest woman in the world!"
The series begins with an older Emma in a limousine in 1970s uptown New York, a world far removed from the rugged landscapes and understated style of Vera. Brenda joked: "I thought, 'Finally, I've arrived! Where is the old trench coat and bucket hat from Vera?'" She added: "It was great! Variety is the spice of life and it was fun to embrace that, swanning about in couture and high heels!"
