Vera Bids Farewell: Final Series Filming Underway in Northumberland

The beloved ITV crime drama Vera has begun filming its 14th and final series across various locations in Northumberland, England. Brenda Blethyn, who has portrayed the iconic Detective Chief Inspector Vera Stanhope since the show's debut in 2011, will be hanging up her hat after an impressive 13-year run.

The cast and crew have been spotted filming in several areas across the North East, including Blyth, Cambois, Gateshead, Ashington, and South Shields. Locals were thrilled to catch a glimpse of the action, with Blethyn's character's Land Rover parked outside a property on Crofton Street in Blyth. Fans shared their excitement and nostalgia on social media, with one commenting, "I will miss Vera. What a great ambassador the show has been for the North East."

The final series, set to air on ITV in early 2025, will consist of two feature-length episodes. Vera, which follows DCI Stanhope and her team as they solve cases in the North East, has been a consistent ratings hit for ITV. The show peaked in popularity during its eighth season in 2018, averaging an impressive 9.03 million viewers in the UK.

Reflecting on her time on the show, Blethyn shared, "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." She expressed gratitude to author Ann Cleeves, who created the Vera Stanhope character, and to producer Elaine Collins for casting her in the role.

The show's success has not only captivated audiences but has also had a significant impact on tourism in the North East. In 2019, Vera won an award at the RTS North East and Border Awards for its positive influence on the region. The series showcases the stunning landscapes and local communities of Northumberland, including locations such as Gateshead, North Shields, Whitley Bay, Amble, Warkworth, Alnmouth, Bamburgh, and Holy Island.

As Vera enters its final chapter, fans can look forward to the return of familiar faces and the introduction of new characters. The 13th season, which aired in January 2024, saw the arrival of Detective Constable Steph Duncan, played by Rhiannon Clements, joining the cast. David Leon, who portrays Vera's former colleague Joe Ashworth, made a guest appearance in the season premiere.

While the series may be coming to an end, its legacy will undoubtedly live on. Brenda Blethyn's portrayal of the no-nonsense, determined DCI Vera Stanhope has become an iconic figure in British television, captivating audiences with her wit, intelligence, and unwavering dedication to solving crimes. As the cast and crew wrap up filming on the final series, fans eagerly await the opportunity to bid a fond farewell to this beloved character and the show that has become a staple of Sunday evening television.

Key Takeaways

• Vera's 14th and final series is filming in Northumberland, England.
• Brenda Blethyn will reprise her role as DCI Vera Stanhope for the last time.
• The final series will consist of two feature-length episodes, airing on ITV in 2025.
• Vera has been a ratings hit, peaking at 9.03 million UK viewers in 2018.
• The show's success has boosted tourism in the North East, showcasing local landscapes and communities.