First look at Vera series 13 as filming begins
David Leon is back on the show!
Last updated 16th May 2023
Following the popular 12th series back in February, ITV and STV bosses confirmed hit show Vera had been commissioned for a 13th series, with main actress Brenda Blethyn reprising her iconic role as DCI Vera Stanhope.
The show, which first started airing back in 2011, has become massively popular with fans across the nation, pulling in impressive viewing figures over the last 12 years with its gripping storylines, so fans will be over the moon to learn filming for series 13 has now started!
ITV/STV and Silverprint Pictures have released first look images of Brenda Blethyn and David Leon as filming begins in the heart of North East England.
Check out the first look photos from Vera series 13 below:
Vera series 13
Vera series 13
What will happen in Vera series 13?
Bosses have so far only released information about the first episode of series 13, which is titled Fast Love.
According to bosses: 'In the opening episode, DCI Vera Stanhope (Brenda Blethyn) is called to a quiet country lane where a young man has been found dead following a collision with a car. Vera discovers that the victim is a popular market trader so heads down to his pitch to start to put together an idea of who the man is.
'As the investigation gathers pace, Vera learns that this cheeky chappy was a complex character. Antagonistic, arrogant and able to get what he wanted but did all of this come at a price? Adding to the complexity of the case, Vera is taken aback by Joe Ashworth's (David Leon) return and is unsure of his motives.'
Who will be on the new series of Vera?
Actress Brenda Blethyn will once again play the role of DCI Vera Stanhope, but the big news is the return of actor David Leon, who is returning to the show to play the role of DS Joe Ashworth.
As fans will know, David portrayed the role of DS Ashworth during series one-four, between 2011-2014.
Jon Morrison, who plays DC Kenny Lockhart and Riley Jones, who plays DC Mark Edward, will also return for the three brand new feature length films.
Brenda Blethyn commented: "It's been such a pleasure to work alongside Kenny and Ibinabo. They've both been terrific members of the Vera team, and I'll miss them. I'm absolutely over the moon to welcome David back to the show and can’t wait to get started.”
Actor Kenny Lockhart, who played the role of DS Aiden Healy in the series, announced he'd made the decision to quit last month, and therefore wont feature in series 13.
He told fans on social media: '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 & 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.
'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. X' (sic)
Kenny isn't the only one not returning, actress Ibinabo Jack, who has played DC Jacqueline ‘Jac’ Williams since 2018, will not be returning for the 13th series due to her theatre commitments.
When is Vera back on TV?
It hasn't yet been announced when the 13th series of Vera will air, but with filming taking place now, we imagine it will return in early 2024.
Where is Vera filmed?
Since it first hit our screens in 2011, Vera has been set and filmed around the North East of England.
After filming for series 13 commenced, Executive Producer Will Nicholson commented: “Being from the North East it is always a joy to film Vera here and we are very grateful for the warmth and support from the fans during production. Starting the new series is incredibly exciting and alongside the incomparable Brenda Blethyn and the rest of our talented cast, we are delighted to welcome David Leon back to the show."
How can I watch Vera?
Vera airs on ITV and STV, with old episodes available to stream for free on ITVX and the STV Player.
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