Brenda Blethyn Reveals Heartbreaking Reason for Leaving Vera After 13 Years

Brenda Blethyn has opened up about the difficult decision to step away from her role as DCI Vera Stanhope after 13 years on Vera, citing the personal sacrifices she has made for the popular ITV series. Blethyn shared that being away from her family for extended periods, sometimes for months at a time, was a key factor in her choice to leave.

The celebrated actress, known for her BAFTA-winning performance in Secrets and Lies and her role as Mrs. Bennett in Pride and Prejudice, took on the iconic character of Vera in 2011 after ITV adapted Ann Cleeves’s detective novels. The show quickly became a fan favorite, leading to 13 seasons with Brenda at the helm. However, ITV recently confirmed that Vera would be concluding, disappointing millions of loyal viewers, according to the Mirror.

Reflecting on her decision, Brenda spoke candidly at the recent Vera – End of an Era event held at the British Film Institute in London, where she appeared alongside author Ann Cleeves. Brenda shared her thoughts with fans and responded to questions from interviewer Emma Kennedy and audience members about her departure. “While, through Vera, I have my Newcastle family who I love so much; I also have a family of my own back at home who I haven’t been able to see as much as I’d like, because of filming,” she explained, as reported by Chronicle Live.

Brenda also mentioned another personal realization: “I also realised that I actually haven’t had a summer in 14 years, so I’m not sure what I’ll do with myself!” For Brenda, this intense filming schedule, often in the North East over the summer, kept her from enjoying time with loved ones and taking a break for herself.

Although she is ready to move forward, Brenda admitted to feeling a sense of guilt about her decision, knowing it could mark the end of Vera and affect the lives of the cast and crew who have worked on the series for so many years. “I feel bad about leaving,” she confessed, expressing a deep connection to the character and to everyone who made the series possible.

The final episodes of Vera were filmed over the summer, and select fans had the chance to view a sneak peek at a special event. As Brenda bids farewell to the beloved detective, her announcement has resonated with fans, who have shared their gratitude and admiration for her years of dedication to bringing Vera to life.