Brenda Blethyn has reflected on her long-running role as Detective Chief Inspector Vera Stanhope, expressing pride in the character and hinting at the possibility of revisiting the role for a special episode. Blethyn, who portrayed the lead in the popular crime drama for 14 series, described Vera as an independent and fair-minded woman, qualities she admired and identified with throughout her portrayal.

Created by author Ann Cleeves, who also penned the Shetland series, Vera Stanhope quickly became a defining role for Blethyn. Cleeves noted that Blethyn had seamlessly embodied the character, to the point that she hears Vera’s voice when writing the novels. The series, filmed with the same cast and crew for extended periods, fostered a strong sense of camaraderie among those involved.

Cleeves highlighted the broader cultural impact of Vera, saying the show helped reshape the perception of northeast England, portraying it as more than just the bleak and impoverished image prevalent in earlier dramas such as *The Likely Lads* and adaptations of Catherine Cookson’s work. After the first series aired, she recalled, viewers appreciated the depiction of the region’s nicer homes and communities.

Despite the show’s success, Blethyn chose to step away from the role to pursue other projects, including the Channel 4 drama *A Woman of Substance*, and to dedicate more time to her family life with husband Michael Mayhew, an art director. Though the decision was difficult, she expressed no regrets, emphasizing the importance of balancing her career and personal commitments.

“That last couple of days on set was really moving,” Blethyn said of her final days filming Vera. “I’m just so proud of it.” She added with a note of optimism for fans, “It would be lovely to get that hat and Mac on again. One more time would be great.” Blethyn still holds onto one of Vera’s trademark mac coats and bucket hats, while another coat is housed at the Discovery Museum in Newcastle.

Ann Cleeves is set to release her 40th novel this October, *The Dying Light*, the fourth in her Matthew Venn series. The story unfolds during a heatwave in North Devon, involving the drowning of a teenage girl connected to a rising political family. Cleeves also plans to lead a writing retreat next May at Fair Isle, a location personally significant as the place where she met her late husband.

Reflecting on the enduring appeal of Vera, Cleeves expressed confidence in the character’s longevity: “Vera will outlast both Brenda and I.” The series remains a memorable contribution to British crime drama and continues to attract fans worldwide.