Vera star breaks silence on future of ITV drama as Brenda Blethyn ...

A STAR from Vera has opened up on the one way the show could still be saved as leading woman Brenda Blethyn quits after 14 seasons.

Fans and cast members alike were left devastated when ITV confirmed the beloved drama was going to be axed after Brenda films her final series.

ITV announced that Vera would be axed after leading woman Brenda quitCredit: ITVIbinabo Jack (left) has an idea of how the storyline could continueCredit: ITVSally Nugent and Jon Kay were delighted by her suggestionCredit: BBC

But actress Ibinabo Jack, who plays DC Jacqueline Williams on the show, has thought of a way the story could be brought back to screens.

She appeared on BBC Breakfast recently to discuss Vera's success.

Speaking about Brenda's upcoming exit, she called her co-star a "formidable actress" and said she can't believe the show is coming to an end.

Show host Jon Kay asked: "I suppose when Brenda steps down that surely means Vera has to end, doesn't it? You can't have Vera without Brenda."

Ibinabo agreed - but suggested an alternative, hinting: "Unless they did a prequel? Like early days?"

Jon and Sally Nugent both exclaimed in excitement at the suggestion.

"A prequel is a fabulous idea!" exclaimed Sally. "That's what we need to know, more of Vera's backstory. It's a genius idea!"

This is not the only idea that has been proposed to save the franchise.

Fans previously hoped that the show would continue with Vera's sidekick, Joe Ashworth, stepping into the role of lead character.

One fan wrote: "Maybe there'll be a spin-off series with Joe or Aiden leading the team."

"So sorry she is retiring, but wish her the very best," a second added before saying: "They are filming two more episodes this summer, so perhaps Vera retires and Joe takes over?"

A fourth commented: "I would love a spin-off," while a fifth added: "Joe's the man for the job."

Ibinabo hopes Vera can be savedCredit: Rex Features