Vera star Brenda Blethyn reveals her ‘regret’ over quitting ITV show and how husband Michael Mayhew reacted to her walking away from the hit series after 14-years

Vera star Brenda Blethyn reveals her 'regret' over quitting ITV show and how husband Michael Mayhew reacted to her walking away from the hit series after 14-years

As a devoted fan of Brenda Blethyn‘s work, especially her portrayal of DCI Vera Stanhope, I must say it’s bittersweet to hear about her decision to quit the series after 14 years. It feels like saying goodbye to an old friend who has been a constant companion in my life for so long.

Brenda Blethyn confessed that she might soon find herself regretting her choice to leave the popular ITV show Vera, where she had been a part for 14 years.

However, the actress, aged 78, portraying DCI Vera Stanhope, expressed her apprehensions. Yet, acknowledging that it was the appropriate move, she made this decision due to the challenging filming locations in the North East frequently separating her from her dear ones, such as her husband Michael Mayhew.

As a lifestyle expert, I confess to Saga Magazine that I find myself in a bit of a predicament: while I adore the camaraderie on set and consider my colleagues as an extended family, the six-month stint away from home filming a series does take up quite a chunk of my time. And, despite my deep affection for my work, I have a loving family residing in the south, who I miss dearly during these absences.

Reflecting on the fact that she hadn’t spent a summer at home in a decade because of Vera’s hectic work schedule, proved to be a significant reason for her decision to retire as a detective, bringing great joy to her cherished spouse.

Michael’s countenance brightened upon hearing that I planned to resign. It seemed as though he found some satisfaction in the possibility that I might stay longer, although he never forced it upon me.

On January 1st and 2nd at 8pm, the final episodes of the series will be broadcasted, and on January 3rd at 9pm, a special documentary titled “Vera: Farewell Pet” will air, both on ITV1 and STV.

Vera star Brenda Blethyn reveals her 'regret' over quitting ITV show and how husband Michael Mayhew reacted to her walking away from the hit series after 14-years

Vera star Brenda Blethyn reveals her 'regret' over quitting ITV show and how husband Michael Mayhew reacted to her walking away from the hit series after 14-years

During the interview Brenda also shared what she believed was the secret to her and Michael’s 50-year relationship. 

Telling the publication: ‘Two bathrooms. Two different rooms with a television too, so you can watch whatever you want. No arguments. You don’t want someone rabbiting on while you’re engrossed in an episode of Vera do you?’.

After Brenda confessed that she found it difficult to tear herself away from the ITV detective series for such a prolonged period, it ensued.

She said: ‘It was a hard decision and come March when I would normally be getting ready to go back up there, I’ll probably be crying.

Despite my affection for everything here, I’ve come to understand that I have a family waiting at home who I haven’t spent a summer with in 14 years.

I found myself drawn back for more, as I just couldn’t tear myself away. However, the timing felt right, which is all there is to it.

To be completely honest, I’ve been utterly captivated by this star’s performances on that beloved show. It seems she’s held onto a handful of mementos from the set, keeping them close as cherished tokens of our shared screen time together.

She exclaimed, “I now possess both the Mac and the hat! It seems I might also have found the tweed coat – that one should be it. However, it appears to have had quite a rough journey.

Vera star Brenda Blethyn reveals her 'regret' over quitting ITV show and how husband Michael Mayhew reacted to her walking away from the hit series after 14-years
Vera star Brenda Blethyn reveals her 'regret' over quitting ITV show and how husband Michael Mayhew reacted to her walking away from the hit series after 14-years
Vera star Brenda Blethyn reveals her 'regret' over quitting ITV show and how husband Michael Mayhew reacted to her walking away from the hit series after 14-years

The actress initially refused to speak about the finale at an event at the BFI in London. 

‘No comment. I’m not going to tell you,’ she quipped when she was pressed for information.

However, she gave subtle indications that the future might be turbulent for Vera and her coworker, Joe Ashworth (David Leon).

Brenda mentioned: “Joe seems to be hiding something, and Vera wants to uncover what it is.

It is clear that he returned to the region due to his father’s illness, as we have previously observed. Unfortunately, his father has since passed away.

‘Joe doesn’t seem to have come out of that dungeon and Vera’s concerned about that.’

Meanwhile, Vera is faced with her own dilemma after she learns her boss intends to promote her.

According to Brenda, Vera is facing a significant choice because the higher-up, the Chief Inspector, is considering promoting her.

The final series will air on January 1 and January 2 at 8pm, while the show’s documentary, Vera: Farewell Pet, will air on January 3 at 9pm, on ITV1 and STV. 

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2024-12-24 04:03

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