ITV drama 'Vera' will return for a 10th season.
Brenda Blethyn
The popular crime show - which stars Brenda Blethyn as Detective Chief Inspector Vera Stanhope - launched on the network in 2011 and has now been commissioned for another return following its huge success.
Four feature length episodes, which will be set in the north east, will begin production in April and air in 2020.
Brenda said: "Along with the rest of the cast of 'Vera', I'm delighted to be embarking on series 10.
"The enthusiasm and warmth shown to 'Vera' has been overwhelming and we can't wait to get started. Newcastle here we come!"
Kenny Doughty - who portrays Vera's trusty aide Detective Sergeant Aiden Healy - will also return to her side.
Jon Morrison (DC Kenny Lockhart), Riley Jones (DC Mark Edwards), Ibinabo Jack (DC Jacqueline Williams and Paul Kaye (Dr Malcolm Donahue) will also join the shrewd investigator as she takes on a fresh case of crimes.
The upcoming episodes will be inspired by the best-selling novels created by writer Ann Cleeves, who penned the Vera Stanhope series which inspired the ITV drama.
'Vera' averaged 7.9 million viewers in its latest season and is one of ITV's most successful imported drama titles in Belgium, Denmark, France, Netherlands and Norway.
Executive producer Phil Hunter - who is returning to the show for his fourth consecutive series - is excited about embarking on the new season because the team love working hard to make a show which the fans in turn "love watching".
He said: "I'm thrilled 'Vera' is returning for series 10. Making this show is such a joy and it's clear that Team Vera love it as much as the viewing fans love watching.
"I'm continually overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and commitment the brilliant cast and crew bring to the show."
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