Brenda Blethyn finally addresses huge outcry from fans after quitting Vera

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ITV bosses confirmed the show would be no more with Brenda set to appear in two more episodes next year before it reaches a dramatic conclusion.

Now she has spoken out for the first time about how "hard" she will find walking away from her role as DCI Vera Stanhope.

Taking to X - formerly Twitter - the actress penned: "Many thanks to everyone for your good wishes. so very much appreciated.

"Getting ready to start filming Series 14 of Vera next week, gonna be hard saying farewell."

Brenda was instantly met with supportive messages from her followers who wished her will on filming the upcoming final series as well as to thank her for committing to play the part for the last 14 years.

One fan said: "Very best wishes for the filming of the new series, Brenda. We've watched every episode, several times, and have always loved Vera."

Another added: "I have loved the Vera character. You have been brilliant in your portrayal of her and the surrounding cast have always been excellent.

"I will continue to rewatch the episodes over and over, as they represent excellence on every level."

As a third said: "Thanks for your rendition of Vera, what a detective, what a woman!"

Confirming that the show would be coming to an end earlier in the week, Brenda said: "Working on Vera has been a joy from beginning to end and I'm sad to be saying Cheerio. 

Vera fans 'rumble' how ITV will save franchise after Brenda Blethyn quits ITV drama after 14 years

"But I am so proud of our achievements over the last fourteen

years. I'll be forever grateful to the wonderful Ann Cleeves who created Vera, and to Elaine Collins who saw fit to cast me in the role.

"The Producers, dream cast and crew have been fabulous and I'm going to miss them, but I won't forget their huge talent, the camaraderie, laughter or kindness we shared nor the friendship of the people of the north east and our fans worldwide.

"Thank you from the bottom of my heart."

Vera will return for a final series early next year, with ITV commissioning just two episodes - each running for 90 minutes.

Originally based on the books by Ann Cleeves, Vera has since moved beyond its source material to focus on stories of its own. 

The drama first aired in 2011 and has been a staple of ITV's schedule ever since with 54 episodes broadcast to date.

Vera's cast over the last 14 years

Since its launch back in 2011 Vera has gripped ITV viewers with its crime stories - and dozens of actors have appeared in the show, including:

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