The hot crime series Vera sadly came to an end this month and main character Brenda Blethyn has been defiant with her crystal clear message that she is not retiring just yet.

Brenda, who played the titular character on the fan- favourite for 14 years, is onto pastures new and has previously confirmed that she's shot a new film already - which is to be released at some point in 2025.

The TV star, now 78, explained that while she isn't planning on hanging up her acting shoes, she isn't looking to take on any major projects that require her to work away from home for days on end. Speaking to the Daily Star about plans to quit after Vera's end, she blurted: "Oh no, I haven't retired," she said, adding: "I've just come south!"

In the same interview, the Saving Grace star lifted the lid that she'd already moved on to adventures new. She recalled: "I was home, I hadn't even unpacked my bag and my agent called me and said, 'Oh, you've been offered a film'."

But it isn't just Brenda who has already moved on to greater things, in fact many of the Vera cast are thriving in the showbiz .

Kenny played the iconic ITV detective on the crime drama and has already revealed that he's onto better things following the conclusion of the programme earlier this month.

Although DCI Vera Stanhope retired from solving crimes on the Newcastle-set only this year, her former detective partner DS Aiden Healy actually exited the show in its fifth season.

The 49-year-old actor has now been confirmed for the upcoming Channel 5 thriller The Au Pair, which is thought to currently be in post-production. A release date is yet to be determined, however there have been a number of rumours that a premier on Channel 5 might arise in the not so distant future.

Joe was famed for playing the role of Julian Carr, alongside Brenda on the crime series. Since the show's closure he has now been pipped for a hot new production that is already tipped to be a fan-favourite on the streaming giant.

He has landed himself a role in renowned author Harlan Coben's new thrilling series Run Away, and if the writer's past productions are anything to go by (Fool Me Once, The Stranger and Missing You), it's sure to be a huge hit with fans.

Run Away is based on Harlan's novel of the same title, with the author also taking on the role of executive producer through his company, Final Twist Productions.

Sam Fender's musical fame has rocketed in recent years with many fans likening his songs to the likes of Bruce Springsteen. Many will not know but Sam actually found fame on Vera before his music career really ramped up.

He starred in the first ever ITV episode and was the first ever dead body to be found by DCI Stanhope. In the memorable scene Sam is found lifeless in a bathtub, surrounded by flower petals. Brenda's famous character is then called in to investigate the crime scene.

The episode did the rounds on social media recently, causing fans to scratch their heads in disbelief that the North Shields musician had actually once been on the show.

That's right, actress Jodie Comer once had a small role alongside DCI Stanhope on the famed ITV drama series. She played the role of a girlfriend to an extreme sports fanatic.

Given the very nature of the show it of course ended in tragedy, when the adrenaline junkie was then seen plunging himself into a lake while on fire and died, leaving Jodie's character beside herself.

Jodie went on to find huge fame on as Villanelle and is now one of the most recognisable British actors. She is also readying to star in a Danny Boyle horror movie titled 28 Years Later, which is to be launched in June this year.

Kingsley wasn't on the ITV programme as an extra or a one-off, he actually starred alongside Brenda as Dr. Marcus Summer for an impressive 16 episodes.

He began his Vera career in 2014 and exited the show four years later. Now, he can be spotted in some huge blockbuster hits such 2023's Barbie and also Marvel series Secret Invasion.

Another claim to fame was the Bob Marley biopic, as he sang and played guitar much like the talented Jamaican star.

Paul was not only a Vera star but also a national treasure. He'd played the role of dad Martin in Friday Night Dinner and even received a BAFTA nomination for his part in the lovable show.

He also landed a key role on the ITV drama, working very closely with DCI Stanhope, having been a key member of her police detective team for the first three series as Dr Billy Cartwright.

In 2021, at the age of 54, Paul sadly passed away on April 5 due to a brain tumour. He died at his home and surrounded by family and love.

Vera series 14 is still currently available for streaming on ITVX