Lorrine: Riley Jones on how Brenda Blethyn ‘changed his lif

Vera’s Brenda Blethyn has revealed she almost rejected her latest major role following her exit from the beloved ITV series. The 79-year-old actress completed her final scenes for the programme last summer – though she has now hinted at a possible comeback.

The farewell was witnessed by millions of viewers in January, with the series distributed to nearly 200 territories worldwide.

Brenda has now secured a fresh role as she prepares to feature in the captivating new thriller Dragonfly, a significant departure from her legendary character DCI Vera Stanhope.

Yet during her stint on ITV’s popular daytime programme This Morning with presenters Dermot O’Leary and Alison Hammond, the actress disclosed that she nearly rejected the opportunity, reports Chronicle Live.

The performer confessed that she desired a much-needed rest following Vera but simply “couldn’t resist”. Dermot pointed out: “We had you on the sofa around Christmas time and you were like you know what I’m done with Vera, I’m having a break with Jack (her dog).”

Brenda Blethyn appeared on This Morning (Image: ITV)

He continued: “I’m going to take the dog for a walk and we will have a lovely time in Kent and then this happens.”

Brenda admitted: “Well I said no to start with I said ‘no, I’m going to make sand castles on the beach’ but I read it and it is so well observed, so tender and beautifully written so I couldn’t resist.”

Dermot asked: “Do you know quite quickly when you read a script?” She replied: “Pretty much, yes. If it’s engaging, thought provoking and if it might make you change your mind about something then yes.”

Alison couldn’t help but ask: “There are rumours on the street that Vera could come back. Would you ever go back to it and is it true, these rumours?”

Brenda is set to star in the gripping new thriller Dragonfly (Image: Tribeca Film Festival)

Brenda confirmed: “Well no, I don’t think so because I think they’re got rid of the set. If someone asked me if I would ever go back.. If they were doing a special, certainly I’d leap at it but it’s unlikely to happen. I’m too busy.”

Directed by Paul Andrew Williams, Dragonfly follows the story of Colleen, played by Andrea Riseborough, who takes it upon herself to care for her elderly neighbour Elise, portrayed by Blethyn, amidst concerns that the professionals are not doing an adequate job.

However, it remains to be seen whether Colleen has ulterior motives or if those around her are simply making unfounded judgments.

The film has been hailed as a “stark, fierce and wonderfully acted film” by The Guardian and has already achieved an impressive 92% approval rating