ITV has confirmed that the beloved crime drama Vera will return for its 13th series. The show stars award-winning actress Brenda Blethyn as the main character DCI Vera Stanhope, who will be back in the titular role. But the good news doesn't stop there because a major character who left the series is also making a comeback.
For the new episodes, Brenda will be reunited with David Leon, who will reprise his previous role as DS Joe Ashworth.
David appeared in the first four series of the detective drama before he departed in 2014 and was replaced with Kenny Doughty, who played DS Aiden Healy.
At the time, the reasons behind his departure were not given, but fellow Vera star Mark Edwards stated: "These things happen, when you're kind of going from series to series and there are a couple of months in between."
Brenda spoke out about reuniting with David for the upcoming series: "I'm absolutely over the moon to welcome David back to the show and can't wait to get started."
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David's return comes shortly after Kenny announced his departure from Vera after eight years. His exit was announced last week on social media. The actor wrote on Instagram: "After 8 years & 35 Vera films I've made the difficult decision of handing over DS Healy's badge. I can confirm I am leaving Vera.
"I want to thank everyone who's made this amazing time so joyous, ITV, Silverprint, all the brilliant cast and crew BUT of course my buddy and inspiration Brenda Blethyn.
"The perfect leading star who I owe so much to. I feel lucky to have you as a friend, you make me howl with laughter & have been a rock for me over the years. I can't thank you enough. Precious times."
He concluded: "And finally the Vera fans: without you and your support I would never have made so many films. You really are the best fans in the world. Thank you so much for your loyalty & love for the show."