Vera announces huge cast shake-up as Brenda Blethyn is seen filming heartbreaking final scenes

ok.co.uk:

Brenda Blethyn has been spotted giving a cheerful wave to her fans while filming the very last episodes of the long-running ITV series Vera.The acclaimed actress, who has won viewers' hearts as the iconic DCI Vera Stanhope, is wrapping up her journey with the show next year, with two final instalments being shot in the north of England.The Vera set has been buzzing with activity in Gateshead, where Brenda's warm smiles and friendly waves have been a treat for onlookers.

Most recently, Brenda and the cast were spotted filming on Swinburne Street in the town and at the city's Town Hall.The concluding two episodes will form the fourteenth series of the hit ITV crime drama, which has followed the sharp-witted Vera leading her team, including DS Joe Ashworth (David Leon) at the start, followed by DS Aiden Healy (Kenny Doughty), and then the returning Joe, now promoted to DI.

Some new actors will be added to the final episodes, with a casting call sent out by ITV and talent agency Ne.14TV asking for actors to take on the roles of three teenage boys, a postman and six women for filming later this month.Two of the teenagers need to bring their own bikes, while the third has to bring their own scooter.

Reflecting on her time with the series, Brenda said: "Working on Vera has been a joy from beginning to end and I'm sad to be saying cheerio.