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Television fans will be thrilled to see a cherished detective making a comeback to our screens. British crime drama Vera is a television series adapted from the Vera Stanhope novels by Ann Cleeves. The programme aired on ITV for 14 years from 2011 to 2025, with Brenda Blethyn portraying the title character, Detective Chief Inspector Vera Stanhope. "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," reads the official synopsis for the series.
Brenda Blethyn hung up her iconic trench coat and hat following the completion of the 14th and final series of Vera last year. The 80-year-old actress chose to depart from the much-loved role in order to dedicate more time to her family. "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," Brenda said in a statement at the time, reports the Mirror.
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The final episode, which was broadcast on ITV1 in January 2025, saw DCI Stanhope reach a significant decision regarding her future. Vera chose to retire to the Northumbrian coast with her dog, having declined a promotion.
Now, Vera fans will be delighted to learn that the much-loved detective is making a return to screens, as ITV broadcasts a repeat episode on Monday night (June 29). Devoted fans can once again immerse themselves in Vera's world when season 13 episode 2, Tender, airs at 8.35pm tonight, immediately after Brazil and Japan's World Cup knockout match.
The episode, which will run until 10.30pm, follows Vera as she investigates a baffling and mysterious case after the body of a gravely ill young girl is discovered in a railway siding in a remote location.
The synopsis reveals: "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."
Vera returns to our screens alongside much-loved characters such as DI Joe Ashworth (David Leon), DC Kenny Lockhart (Jon Morrison), and DC Mark Edwards (Riley Jones).
Viewers have continued to heap praise upon the Newcastle-based drama online, with one IMDb user writing: "Vera is the best ever." Another added: "10/10 crime series and a must watch for Sunday evening viewing!!!" while a third remarked: "Best detective show on TV."
A further viewer commented: "Vera shows up as the best British TV has to offer. Flawless crime drama," with yet another similarly stating: "Vera is everyone's favourite detective. One of the most remarkable detectives ever."
A sixth viewer echoed these sentiments, saying: "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."