ITV orders six new feature-length episodes of Brenda Blethyn's Vera

By Neil Wilkes, Editor-in-chief

Published: August 28 2020 | 03:29

Last updated: September 9 2020 | 16:50

ITV confirms that it has ordered six new episodes of Vera with Brenda Blethyn for broadcast in 2021 and 2022.

ITV has confirmed that it has ordered a six-part 11th series of crime drama Vera for broadcast over the next two years.

The show, which stars two-time Oscar nominee Brenda Blethyn as DCI Vera Stanhope, is a ratings force for ITV and averaged more than 8 million for its 10th series earlier this year.

The first two episodes from the new run will be filmed later this year for broadcast early next year, with the other four being recorded next Spring to be aired at some point in 2022.

In a press release announcing the new series, ITV provided a synopsis of the first new story: "The 11th series opens when the body of well-respected local builder, Jim Tullman, is found beaten to death on the steps of the Collingwood Monument. DCI Vera Stanhope questions how such a seemingly beloved and imposing figure could be attacked so viciously. The mystery deepens when she discovers that Tullman was due to testify in court as the key witness in a violent assault. Could these two crimes be connected?

"As Vera delves deeper into Jim Tullman's life she discovers unresolved bitterness between his estranged wife Barbara and doting son John Paul, while tensions with old family friends Gary and Lesley Clayton threaten to spill over. Vera must see through the web of family grievances, jealousies and lies to ensure justice is done."

Blethyn said: "I'm really looking forward to working on the next series of Vera. The safety of all personnel is always at the forefront of production, and with all the extra COVID precautions in place we will relish creating and delivering six cracking new episodes."

Blethyn is also gearing up to film the second series of surprise hit sitcom Kath & Koji.