Vera star Kenny Doughty has announced he is leaving hit ITV drama Vera after eight years. The actor, who plays DS Aiden Healy, has left fans gutted with the news as he released a statement in which he paid tribute to his co-star Brenda Blethyn, who plays Vera Stanhope.
Kenny has shared an emotional statement after he recently worried fans by posting a string of photos from the set of the popular Sunday night show recently and said "thanks for the memories". Viewers quickly took to social media to quiz Kenny about his future on the much-loved drama but hadn't, until now, shared a response.
Paying a sweet tribute to his co-star and "inspiration" Brenda Blethyn, Kenny thanked his co-star for their eight years together on set. In a statement, the 47-year-old shared: "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."
He added: "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." Sharing the statement on Twitter, Kenny said: "A difficult decision but I have decided to hand over DS Healy’s badge."
Former Corrie star Jack James Ryan was quick to respond to the post, writing: "Vera’s ENORMOUS loss is the industry’s MASSIVE gain. I genuinely can’t wait to see what you do next. Can’t thank you enough for making me feel so welcome during my brief time on the show. Onwards, and hopefully see you out there! Big love."
Doctor Who showrunner Russell T Davies replied: "Oh mate. Congratulations. You’ve been wonderful. Here’s to the future." And fans were quick to share their sadness at the news. @salsal24 said: "Gutted. Who is going to put Vera's blue booties on now." @julesf08 commented: "Oh no ...... you can't leave Vera who's going to look after her - totally gutted."
@bexspearce wrote: "Awwww no!! Awwww will miss you lots you and Vera are a right double act. Whose gonna put the bags over her shoes now and get the coffees??? Good luck in your next adventure." @orlaboyle1 shared: " I’ll be crying in the corner rewatching old Vera’s." @sentiments_and_sparkles added: "On no absolutely gutted you are leaving @kennydoughty . Vera won't be the same without you. You and Brenda make the show so great. Good luck in whatever the future holds for you."
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