Brenda Blethyn, the beloved star of ITV's hit crime drama Vera, has revealed a highly unusual companion that accompanies her everywhere during filming - a small toy monkey that she considers her lucky charm.
The 78-year-old actress, who plays the iconic Detective Chief Inspector Vera Stanhope, disclosed her quirky superstition during an appearance on Lorraine, leaving both host Lorraine Kelly and viewers thoroughly amused.
The Lucky Monkey's Vital Role
"I've got a little monkey and he comes everywhere with me," Blethyn confessed with a warm smile. "He sits in my trailer, and if I have to go to location, he comes to location with me."
The toy isn't just for company - Blethyn has developed specific rules for her furry co-star's involvement in the production. "He has to face the wall if we're having a bad filming day," she explained, highlighting the depth of her superstition.
A Decade-Long Partnership
Blethyn's connection to the primate puppet dates back to the very beginning of Vera, which first aired in 2011. The monkey was a gift from the show's sound team during the series' inaugural production, making it a constant presence throughout all thirteen seasons.
Her co-star Kenny Doughty, who played DS Aiden Healy until his departure in 2023, found the habit particularly entertaining. "Kenny used to laugh his head off," Blethyn recalled fondly.
Behind the Scenes of Vera's Success
The revelation came as Blethyn discussed the future of the popular North-East based detective series. While she confirmed that filming for the fourteenth season has concluded, she remained characteristically tight-lipped about potential storylines.
"I'm not allowed to say anything!" she told Lorraine when pressed for details about upcoming episodes. This secrecy has become a hallmark of the show, keeping audiences guessing and eagerly anticipating each new investigation.
Blethyn's admission provides a charming glimpse into the personal rituals that help create television magic, proving that even the most seasoned actors maintain their unique traditions throughout their careers.
