THE Christmas special of Vera is set to be rocked by a major death as a beloved character is replaced.
Brenda Blethyn is back for a festive instalment of the hit crime detective drama.
Vera's Christmas special will air before the 13th series, which is set to kick off in the New Year.
But for DS Aiden Healy, his fate is sealed as his final scenes have been filmed.
Fans will watch as Kenny Doughty bows out of the role before being promptly replaced on screen by David Leon.
David, 43, will portray Joe Ashworth as he teams up with Vera to help investigate the suicide of Rick Kelasall.
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However, DI Stanhope soon realises there's more than meets the eye as she gets to work on cracking the case.
Filming on Vera's Christmas special and new series wrapped in September.
Previously announcing his departure from the show, actor Kenny said: "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.
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"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."
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