ITV Vera final series start date 'confirmed' in new TV advert

Vera fans have been given a major clue as to when the hit drama will return for its final series, thanks to a revealing new TV advert. The wait won't be long.

It's hard to fathom that it was as far back as 2011 when the beloved ITV show first aired, with BAFTA winner Brenda Blethyn donning her now iconic trench coat and fishing hat for the first time.

She starred alongside David Leon and a young Sam Fender, who holds the unlikely distinction of being Vera's first murder victim.

Fast forward 13 years and Vera enthusiasts worldwide were hit hard when ITV executives announced that the 14th series, shot across the North East in places like Blyth, South Shields, Gateshead and the Northumberland village of Glanton, would be its last.

Further disappointment came for DCI Stanhope devotees when it was also disclosed that the drama's final run would comprise only two episodes.

ITV Vera: David Leon and Brenda Blethyn (Image: ITV)

However, there will be the added bonus of a behind-the-scenes documentary, Vera, Farewell Pet.

Brenda Blethyn, who recently filmed her last scenes as Vera, made an appearance at a celebration event titled 'Vera - End of an Era' at London's British Film Institute. Alongside author Ann Cleeves, she answered questions from fans and the host for the evening, Emma Kennedy, reports Chronicle Live.

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At the end of the screening, Emma announced to the audience that the final episodes of Vera would be aired "in the next year".

Brenda Blethyn is set to play Vera for the very last time (Image: ITV/Stuart Wood/REX/Shutterstock) SUBSCRIBE Invalid email

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This has now been officially confirmed by ITV in an advert that was spotted by many fans on Thursday night. The ad encouraged viewers to catch up on all previous episodes of Vera on ITVX before the new series 'starts in January.

The news of the advert quickly spread among Vera fan groups online. One viewer shared: "Just seen an ad for Vera. Coming to the screens in January 2025 uk. I can't wait" while another commented: "Just seen an advert on ITV in the UK which said "Stream the boxset of Vera before the next series starts in January".

Vera is available to watch on ITVX