Vera’s Christmas special set for death in Aiden Healy’s final appearance

NTAs: Brenda Blethyn watches herself in clip from Vera

Vera fans can expect another mysterious death in the Christmas special of the ITV series.

The special episode titled, The Rising Tide, is also expected to be Kenny Doughty’s last appearance as Aiden Healy.

He will promptly be replaced by Joe Ashworth (played by David Leon), who will be back to play Vera’s (Brenda Blethyn) sidekick.

The episode will see DI Stanhope being forced into a new investigation in the lead-up to Christmas.

The detective and her team will have to put their festive plans on hold as they try to uncover the truth.

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The episode will see Vera investigating the apparent suicide of a man called Rick Kelasall – although she soon realises there is more to the case than meets the eye.

DI Stanhope has a murder on her hands and the team quickly gets to work to find out the culprit.

It is also thought to be Kenny’s final episode as Aiden Healy after he announced his departure earlier this year.

In March, Kenny confirmed he would be leaving the show after eight years in what he described as a “difficult decision”.

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At the time, fans expressed their concern over the actor’s exit and whether he would appear in any future episodes.

ITV bosses confirmed to Express.co.uk that a new feature-length episode would be released.

The Rising Tide is based on the eleventh Vera novel written by Ann Cleeves.

It was later announced that David Leon would be reprising his role as Joe Ashworth.

After sharing a series of photos with Brenda, Kenny thanked his fellow co-stars and fans for their ongoing support.

He wrote: “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)

Vera is expected to turn to ITV very soon.

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