The highly acclaimed detective series, Vera, is set to captivate audiences once again with its thirteenth series. Starring the internationally renowned actress Brenda Blethyn as DCI Vera Stanhope, the show brings back the beloved character of Joe Ashworth, played by David Leon. With three feature-length episodes, this season promises to deliver thrilling and complex crime stories that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Character Biographies
DCI Vera Stanhope, portrayed by Brenda Blethyn, leads a team at Northumberland and City Police. Known for her unwavering dedication to uncovering the truth, Vera is relentless in her pursuit of justice. Despite her unconventional and unglamorous approach, she possesses a sharp wit and a caustic sense of humor. Vera’s work is her life, and her team is her family. Having grown up with a neglectful father, she constantly strives to prove herself and find a sense of self-worth. Though she demands loyalty and respect from her team, she also cares deeply for them and the victims of the crimes she investigates.
DC Kenny Lockhart, played by Jon Morrison, is a trusted and loyal member of Vera’s team. While he may work at his own pace, Vera knows that he brings years of experience and instinct to the table. Kenny’s plain-spoken nature and keen memory for past cases make him a valuable asset. He also surprises his colleagues with his proficiency in contemporary technology and social media.
DC Steph Duncan, portrayed by Rhiannon Clements, is an energetic and committed investigator. She thrives on being at the heart of an investigation, relishing the opportunity to meet victims, interview suspects and witnesses, and chase leads. However, she has a distaste for desk work and the administrative aspects of modern policing. While her impatience may clash with Vera at times, her tenacity and results-oriented approach prove invaluable to the team.
DC Mark Edwards, played by Riley Jones, is a skilled and reliable detective who joined Vera’s team from a uniformed position. As one of the younger members of the squad, Mark is more introspective and less outspoken. He channels his energy into meticulous analysis and research, which Vera relies on to push investigations forward.
Pathologist Dr. Paula Bennett, portrayed by Sarah Kameela Impey, is known for her acerbic sense of fun and her brilliant forensic brain. While some mistake her dark humor for insensitivity, it is actually her enthusiasm for the science of investigation. She brings empathy to her work, having experienced the death of her father. Paula is brilliant at what she does but sometimes needs a reminder that not everyone’s brain works at the same pace as hers.
Episode Synopsis
Episode 1: Fast Love
In the opening episode of Series 13, titled “Fast Love,” DCI Vera Stanhope is called to a quiet country lane where a young man has been found dead following a collision with a car. As Vera delves into the investigation, she discovers that the victim is a popular market trader. Determined to unravel the mystery surrounding his death, she visits his pitch and begins piecing together his identity. The deeper Vera digs, the more she uncovers about this complex and enigmatic individual. As the case gains momentum, Vera is taken aback by the unexpected return of Joe Ashworth, leaving her unsure of his motives.
The first episode features a talented ensemble cast, including Nimmy March, Amit Shah, Stephen Lord, Patrick McNamee, Andrew Dunn, Bryan Dick, Samantha Seager, Beruce Khan, and newcomers Travis Ross, Evie Hargreaves, and Susan Jayne-Robinson.
Author Ann Cleeves
Ann Cleeves, the creative mind behind the Vera series, is a highly acclaimed author with over thirty-five novels to her name. In 2017, she was awarded the CWA Diamond Dagger, the highest accolade in crime writing. Cleeves is also the mastermind behind other popular detectives such as Jimmy Perez from the Shetland series and Matthew Venn from The Long Call. Her books have been adapted into successful television series, captivating audiences worldwide.
Before becoming a writer, Cleeves worked as a probation officer, bird observatory cook, and auxiliary coastguard. She is a proud member of “Murder Squad,” a group of British northern writers dedicated to promoting crime fiction. Cleeves is a strong advocate for reading as a means to improve health and well-being, and she actively supports access to books. Her Reading for Wellbeing project, launched in 2021, collaborates with local authorities in the North East to promote reading as a source of comfort and inspiration. Cleeves resides in Northumberland, the setting of her beloved Vera books.
Cast and Production Credits
The talented cast of Vera Series 13 includes Brenda Blethyn as DCI Vera Stanhope, David Leon as Joe Ashworth, Jon Morrison as DC Kenny Lockhart, Rhiannon Clements as DC Steph Duncan, Riley Jones as DC Mark Edwards, and Sarah Kameela Impey as Pathologist Dr. Paula Bennett.
The episodes are written by Paul Matthew Thompson and Phil Mulryne. “Fast Love” is directed by Claire Winyard, “Tender” is directed by Jermain Julien, and “Salt and Vinegar” is directed by Paul Gay. The self-contained crime stories draw inspiration from the best-selling novels and characters created by Ann Cleeves.
Vera is produced by Silverprint Pictures, a part of ITV Studios, with executive producers Will Nicholson and Kate Bartlett overseeing the production. Will Nicholson also takes on the role of producer for the new series. Drama Commissioner Huw Kennair-Jones oversees the production on behalf of ITV. International distribution of Vera is handled by ITV Studios.
So…
Get ready for another thrilling season of Vera as the iconic detective returns to solve complex crimes and captivate audiences once again. With Brenda Blethyn leading an exceptional cast, viewers can expect compelling storylines, intriguing mysteries, and the trademark wit and charm of DCI Vera Stanhope. As the series delves into the depths of human nature, it promises to deliver an unforgettable viewing experience. Stay tuned for the highly anticipated thirteenth series of Vera, where justice is served with a side of caustic wit and unwavering determination.