Michael Mayhew: Last News

TV icon Brenda Blethyn has returned to our screens as the titular detective, DCI Vera Stanhope in the new series of ITV's Vera, but off screen has a huge family.The drama series returned on Sunday, January 7, much to the delight of Vera fans as series 13 kicked off with more complex crimes needing to be solved in Northumberland. Brenda, 77, has played the leading role of DCI Vera since the show launched in 2011 and has delighted fans ever since. But away from the cameras, what else do we know about the leading lady? From growing up with eight siblings to being introduced to film by her parents.

Brenda Blethyn, who plays the lead character in TV crime series Vera, quickly became besotted with husband Michael Mayhew but initially feared he didn't feel the same.

Good Housekeeping.Brenda was previously married to Alan James Blethyn, a graphic designer she met while working for British Rail, in 1964. Their marriage ended in 1973, but Brenda kept her husband's surname for professional reasons.She met British Art Director Michael Mayhew three decades ago and the couple have been married since 2010.Brenda has starred as DCI Vera Stanhope in the eponymous show since a year after she tied the knot with Michael.The actress admitted she would be up for playing her character DCI Vera Stanhope well into her old age, even if it meant she needed a “zimmer” to help her film scenes.The star of the much-loved detective series has no plans to depart the programme where she feels “comfortable”.Opening up on the