Saying goodbye to a beloved, long-running series is rarely a pleasant experience. But after 14 seasons, DCI Vera Stanhope is hanging up her iconic hat and trench coat, and ITV1 is giving her a fitting send-off with the two-hour finale, “The Dark Wives.” This time, the case isn’t just another investigation; it’s a walk down memory lane, intertwined with Vera’s own personal history.
The discovery of a body at a local landmark known as The Dark Wives unearths a trove of childhood memories for Vera. The victim, a young student found far from home, presents a puzzle that forces Vera to confront not only the present-day crime but also echoes of her past. This blend of personal and professional makes for what looks to be a poignant farewell to the unorthodox but brilliant detective.
Brenda Blethyn, the anchor of the series since 2011, once again embodies Vera with her signature blend of gruffness and empathy. Filmed against the starkly beautiful backdrop of Newcastle and the Northumberland countryside, “Vera” has always been as much about atmosphere as it is about solving crimes. This final episode takes that to heart, using the familiar locations to underscore the emotional weight of Vera’s last case.
“The Dark Wives” aims to serve as more than just a typical whodunit; it wants to be a tribute to a character that has become a television icon. Whether it succeeds in that lofty goal remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: saying goodbye to Vera won’t be easy.
Vera airs on ITV1 on Thursday, January 2, 2025.
