ITV's acclaimed crime drama Vera, widely praised as 'the best British TV has to offer', is returning to screens with a repeat episode airing on Monday evening, June 29. The series, which originally ran for 14 years from 2011 to 2025, stars Brenda Blethyn as Detective Chief Inspector Vera Stanhope.
Episode Details
The repeat broadcast is Series 13 Episode 2, titled 'Tender', scheduled to air at 8.35pm on ITV1 immediately after Brazil's World Cup knockout match against Japan. The episode runs until 10.30pm. It follows Vera as she investigates the discovery of a frail young girl's body at a remote railway siding.
The official synopsis states: 'The case soon turns up twists and turns that makes Vera question who this girl actually was, and ask if her weakened state allowed someone to take advantage of her.'
Character and Series Background
The series is adapted from Ann Cleeves' Vera Stanhope novels. According to the official synopsis, 'Vera is a nearly retired detective chief inspector of the fictional Northumberland and City Police, who is obsessive about her work. She plods along in a dishevelled state but has a calculating mind and despite her irascible personality, she cares deeply about her work and colleagues.'
Brenda Blethyn, now 80, retired from the role after the 14th and final series last year. She said in a statement: 'Working on Vera has been a joy from beginning to end and I'm sad to be saying cheerio. But I am so proud of our achievements over the last 14 years.' The final episode, broadcast in January 2025, saw Vera choose to retire to the Northumbrian coast with her dog, declining a promotion.
Cast and Fan Reactions
The episode features regular cast members including DI Joe Ashworth (David Leon), DC Kenny Lockhart (Jon Morrison), and DC Mark Edwards (Riley Jones). Fans have consistently praised the show online. One IMDb reviewer called it 'the best ever'. Another said: '10/10 crime series and a must watch for Sunday evening viewing!!!' A third proclaimed: 'Best detective show on TV.' One viewer observed: 'Vera shows up as the best British TV has to offer. Flawless crime drama.' Another added: 'Vera is everyone's favourite detective. One of the most remarkable detectives ever.' A sixth fan commented: 'All time favourite detective. The best series of all time. After 40 years of watching and reading that type of crime drama, this is on the top of my list.'
Where to Watch
The repeat airs on ITV1 at 8.35pm on Monday, June 29, and is also available to stream on ITVX.
