Meet the cast of ITV drama Vera
Your essential guide to the cast of Vera.
Vera Stanhope's (played by Brenda Blethyn) used to investigating strange murders, but perhaps season 13, episode 3's, is the weirdest.
When a body turns up in a seaside chip shop freezer, Vera and Joe (David Leon) have to work out who put him there.
With cheating, scandal and a rival chippie on the scene, Salt and Vinegar makes for one of Vera's most curious cases.
What's more, it's jam-packed with a new batch of guest stars including Scarlett Brookes, Lee Armstrong and Leon Annor.
Read on to find out more about the ensemble, and find a full list of every episode's guest stars.
Vera cast regulars
Brenda Blethyn plays DCI Vera Stanhope
Who is Vera? DCI Vera Stanhope is a talented, compassionate and unconventional detective who heads up a team at Northumberland and City Police. She's prickly, blunt, almost always wears her distinctive hat, and doggedly pursues the truth of each case - even if it lands her in hot water.
As the seasons have progressed, we've learnt more about her backstory, including her difficult relationship with her father.
Where have I seen Brenda Blethyn before? You might recognise the two-time Oscar nominee as Mrs Bennett in the Keira Knightley version of Pride & Prejudice, or from her roles in Atonement, Secrets & Lies, Little Voice and the Clémence Poésy version of War and Peace.
Speaking ahead of season 11, Blethyn revealed that she can never say never to future Vera seasons. "At the end of filming every season, I think, 'Oh, thank the Lord I’m going home. Never again,'" she said. "But it’s like having a lovely slap-up meal. You’ve eaten too much. You couldn’t eat another morsel. And you’re shown the menu again. 'Take it away, take it away!' But then, a week later, you get hungry again."
David Leon plays Joe Ashworth
Who is Joe Ashworth? Joe was Vera's first assistant on the TV series, and helped her solve many a case. He left in 2017, but is back in 2024 for season 13 - yet he's certainly different.
Speaking about returning to Vera and what fans can expect from Joe, Leon said: "A period of time has gone by. You grow and evolve as a person through those cycles of life and the character reflects that. When I agreed to come back part of the discussions we had were, ‘What would it mean for the character?’ To pick up where we left off was not hugely interesting to me, personally. And I don’t think it’s that interesting for the audience.
"There needed to be a justification, a reason, for why Joe has come back. Along with a readdressing of the balance in terms of the dynamic of the relationship between Joe and Vera." Fans will find out in season 13 episode 1 just what brings Joe back into Vera's working life.
Where have I seen David Leon before? Aside from his role in Vera, Leon has appeared in popular TV shows like Silent Witness, In the Dark and Gold Digger. He also had a part in Guy Ritchie's RocknRolla.
Rhiannon Clements plays DC Steph Duncan
Who is Steph Duncan? Steph is the new kid on the block, and is enthusiastic about solving crimes. She's very personable and enjoys meeting different people associated with every case - and she definitely doesn't want to be stuck at her desk. Sometimes Vera finds her a bit much, but Steph's hard work always helps drive the cases along.
Where have I seen Rhiannon Clements before? Viewers will best know Clements for her role as Summer Ranger on Hollyoaks, but she's also appeared in Death on the Nile, Big Boys and Doctor Who.
Jon Morrison plays DC Kenny Lockhart
Who is DC Kenny Lockhart? A loyal detective with decades of experience under his belt, and the cynical sense of humour to prove it.
Where have I seen Jon Morrison before? The Scottish actor has previously starred in The Bill, Monarch of the Glen, High Times, Dream Team and Who Dares Wins.
Sara Kameela Impey plays Pathologist Dr Paula Bennett
Who is Dr Paula Bennett? Dr Paula is the latest pathologist on Vera's team. She's extremely diligent and hardworking - even finding the time for a couple of wise-cracks at Vera. While we wouldn't normally recommend it, it seems Vera likes having someone strong to bounce off!
Where have I seen Sara Kameela Impey before? Kameela Impey has worked on some of the most popular shows of recent years, including a stint in We Are Lady Parts as Saira and Neelum Khan in Maternal. She was also the voice of Lena Manzour in The Archers.
Season 13 episode 3 guest stars
- Lee Armstrong plays Ross Simmons
- Leon Annor plays Anthony Davidson
- Scott Turnbull plays Scott Rhodes
- Jasmine Bayes plays Rachel Lim
- Shane Attwooll plays Trevor Armley
- Scarlett Brookes plays Carrie Hawton
- Tareq Al-Jeddal plays Tyler Hawton
- Ryan McKen plays Ollie Keeble
- Mia Soteriou plays Pat Helliwell
- Aoife Kennan plays Sophie Jenson
- Margaret Jackman plays Heidi Stokes
- Kay Milbourne plays Doctor Stanton
- Lindsay Bennett-Thompson plays Crystal Hawton
Vera: Salt and Vinegar guest stars
Lee Armstrong plays Ross Simmons
Who is Ross Simmons? Ross is Scott's business partner who has a tense relationship with his co-owner.
Where have I seen Lee Armstrong before? Viewers will no doubt recognise Armstrong from another Sunday show, Call the Midwife, where he played Dr Kevin McNulty. He's also appeared in The Nevers, Endeavour and Doctors.
Leon Annor plays Anthony Davidson
Who is Anthony Davidson? Anthony works at the fish and chip shop for Scott and Ross.
Where have I seen Leon Annor before? Fans of Harlan Coben might've seen Annor in Stay Close, but aside from that, you'll have seen him in Britannia and Mister Winner.
Scott Turnbull plays Scott Rhodes
Who is Scott Rhodes? Scott is the unfortunate victim in this episode of Vera.
Where have I seen Scott Turnbull before? This is Turnbull's first major TV role.
Jasmine Bayes plays Rachel Lim
Who is Rachel Lim? Rachel finds the body in the chip shop on a sleepy Sunday morning.
Where have I seen Jasmine Bayes before? Bayes has appeared in Father Brown and Platform 7.
Shane Attwooll plays Trevor Armley
Who is Trevor Armley? Trevor used to supply fish to Scott and Ross's business, but when they cut ties with him, he threatens to kill Scott.
Where have I seen Shane Attwooll before? Attwooll has enjoyed roles in the likes of Silent Witness, Carnival Row and The Alienist.
Scarlett Brookes plays Carrie Hawton
Who is Carrie Hawton? Carrie is Scott's girlfriend.
Where have I seen Scarlett Brookes before? Fans will have no doubt enjoyed Brookes' work on Criminal Record, Silent Witness and Call the Midwife, among other shows.
Tareq Al-Jeddal plays Tyler Hawton
Who is Tyler Hawton? Tyler is Carrie's son from a previous relationship.
Where have I seen Tareq Al-Jeddal before? Al-Jeddal has had roles in Rosie Molloy Gives Up Everything, Coronation Street and Maternal.
Ryan McKen plays Ollie Keeble
Who is Ollie Keeble? Ollie is a local football coach and clashed with Scott at times.
Where have I seen Ryan McKen before? McKen had roles in Game of Thrones, Bancroft, Temple and The State among many other popular TV shows.
Mia Soteriou plays Pat Helliwell
Who is Pat Helliwell? Pat runs the rival chippy on the high street, and is often enjoying a bigger customer volume than Simmons'.
Where have I seen Mia Soteriou before? Soteriou will be well-known to viewers, having starred in everything from Mamma Mia! to Who is Erin Carter? and Little Birds.
Aoife Kennan plays Sophie Jenson
Who is Sophie Jenson? Sophie is Scott's secret lover.
Where have I seen Aoife Kennan before? Kennan has starred in Victoria and Blue Jean.
Margaret Jackman plays Heidi Stokes
Who is Heidi Stokes? Heidi is Carrie's grandmother.
Where have I seen Margaret Jackman before? You'll know Jackman from the likes of Game of Thrones, Casualty, The Following Events Are Based on a Pack of Lies and Grimsby.
Lindsay Bennett-Thompson plays Crystal Hawton
Who is Crystal Hawton? Crystal is Carrie's sister.
Where have I seen Lindsay Bennett-Thompson before? Aside from Waterloo Road and Coronation Street, viewers might've seen Bennett-Thompson in Greatest Days.
Season 13 episode 2 guest stars
- Emily Kathryn plays Gabi McSwain
- Julia Sawalha plays Helen Rushden
- Joelle Dyson plays Rosa Adeyemi
- Jake Lowe plays Lee Critchley
- Reece Douglas plays Jonathon Rushden
- Steven Stobbs plays Darren Childs
- Fraser James plays Tom Rushden
- Lynn Roden plays Maia Scholes
- Gillian Kearney plays Deborah McSwain
- Shaun Dooley plays Matthew McSwain
- Gabrielle Green plays Sian Jordan
- Bridget Marumo plays Fiona Rushden
- Euan MacNaughton plays Jonah Green
Vera: Tender guest stars
Emily Kathryn plays Gabi McSwain/Fisher
Who is Gabi McSwain/Fisher? Gabi is a 20-year-old woman who is the victim of this week's episode.
Where have I seen Emily Kathryn before? This is Kathryn's first TV role.
Julia Sawalha plays Helen Rushden
Who is Helen Rushden? Helen has been looking after Gabi for the past few months while she battled cancer and was in a vulnerable situation.
Where have I seen Julia Sawalha before? Viewers will know Sawalha for her role in Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie, and for her voice in Chicken Run (Ginger). She's also appeared in the likes of Midsomer Murders, Remember Me and Marple.
Joelle Dyson plays Rosa Adeyemi
Who is Rosa Adeyemi? Rosa works at the hospital Gabi was attending as a pharmacist.
Where have I seen Joelle Dyson before? Those who saw Barbie in 2023 might recognise Dyson as one of the dancers in Greta Gerwig's blockbuster films. She's also been in EastEnders, but is best known for her stage roles.
Jake Lowe plays Lee Critchley
Who is Lee Critchley? Lee is a long-term friend of Gabi. The pair used to date, and Lee now works as a drug dealer.
Where have I seen Jake Lowe before? Viewers might've seen Lowe in the likes of Emmerdale and Doctors over the years.
Reece Douglas plays Jonathon Rushden
Who is Jonathon Rushden? Jonathon is Helen and Tom's son.
Where have I seen Reece Douglas before? Douglas has been in the likes of Archie and Ridley over the years, as well as The Bay.
Steven Stobbs plays Darren Childs
Who is Darren Childs? Darren finds Gabi's body on the hiking trail.
Where have I seen Steven Stobbs before? Viewers may have seen Stobbs in Wire in the Blood or Functional Rejects.
Fraser James plays Tom Rushden
Who is Tom Rushden? Tom is Helen's husband, father to Jonathon and Fiona.
Where have I seen Fraser James before? James has enjoyed a successful stage on the big and small screens, starring in the likes of Carnival Row, Boxing Day, Endeavour and Terminator: Dark Fate.
Lynn Roden plays Maia Scholes
Who is Maia Scholes? Maia works at the hospital Gabi was attending.
Where have I seen Lynn Roden before? Roden was recently a star of Better, and has also had roles in Years and Years, Care, Coronation Street and Emmerdale.
Gillian Kearney plays Deborah McSwain
Who is Deborah McSwain? Deborah is Gabi's biological mother.
Where have I seen Gillian Kearney before? Kearney is best known for her role of killer Emma Barton on Emmerdale, but you'll have also seen her in Silent Witness, Suspects and Casualty.
Shaun Dooley plays Matthew McSwain
Who is Matthew McSwain? Matthew is Gabi's biological father.
Where have I seen Shaun Dooley before? Dooley needs little introduction and is a British TV icon. Aside from recently starring in Saltburn, Dooley has had a successful career starring in the likes of Criminal Record, Mr Bates vs The Post Office, The Long Shadow, Black Mirror and many, many more popular series.
Gabrielle Green plays Sian Jordan
Who is Sian Jordan? Sian is Lee's girlfriend. She's unhappy with his friendship to Gabi.
Where have I seen Gabrielle Green before? Viewers might recognise Sian from Wolfblood and Tripped.
Bridget Marumo plays Fiona Rushden
Who is Fiona Rushden? Fiona is Helen and Tom's daughter.
Where have I seen Bridget Marumo before? This is one of Marumo's few TV roles.
Euan Macnaughton plays Jonah Green
Who is Jonah Green? Jonah works with Fiona and their relationship isn't exactly appropriate for colleagues.
Where have I seen Euan Macnaughton before? In 2023, Macnaughton starred in Refuge, Outlander and Guilt, but he's also appeared in This England, All Creatures Great and Small and Bridgerton during his successful TV career.
Season 13 episode 1 guest stars
- Travis Ross plays Danny Meddon
- Patrick McNamee plays Owen Duggan
- Nimmy March plays Carol Sloane
- Andrew Dunn plays Ian Headley
- Amit Shah plays Milan Shah
- Evie Hargreaves plays Leanne Barrie
- Stephen Lord plays Tony Meddon
- Farzana Dua Elahe plays Basma Shah
- Bryan Dick plays Alun Barrie
- Samantha Seager plays Kathy Barrie
- Susan Jayne-Robinson plays Alison Rahim
- Beruce Khan plays Neil Rahim
Vera: Fast Love guest stars
Travis Ross plays Danny Meddon
Who is Danny Meddon? Danny is the unfortunate victim in Fast Love. He's a market stall trader.
Where have I seen Travis Ross before? Ross has enjoyed a career on the stage, starring in the likes of Cabaret, Cake: The Marie Antoinette Playlist and Mrs Doubtfire.
Patrick McNamee plays Owen Duggan
Who is Owen Duggan? Owen is Danny's friend - and it transpires that he has been keeping a lot of secrets.
Where have I seen Patrick McNamee before? Vera isn't the only role McNamee will be in this year; he's also got a starring role in Masters of the Air. Viewers will know him from Our Girl and Inspector George Gently, too.
Nimmy March plays Carol Sloane
Who is Carol Sloane? Carol is another market trader.
Where have I seen Nimmy March before? March has enjoyed a successful career on TV, having starred in the likes of Midsomer Murders, Agatha Raisin and Doctors.
Andrew Dunn plays Ian Headley
Who is Ian Headley? Ian is another market trader, who certainly didn't get on with the victim, Danny, and the pair had a historical bust-up.
Where have I seen Andrew Dunn before? Dunn has appeared in Doctors, Moving On, My Family and Midsomer Murders.
Amit Shah plays Milan Shah
Who is Milan Shah? Milan Shah runs the market as the inspector. He isn't afraid to upset any of the traders.
Where have I seen Amit Shah before? Viewers will have just watched Shah in Mr Bates vs The Post Office, but you'll also know him as Rishi Sunak in The Windsors. He also appeared in Happy Valley and Death in Paradise.
Evie Hargreaves plays Leanne Barrie
Who is Leanne Barrie? Leanne helps out on the market stalls, but isn't the most reliable employee...
Where have I seen Evie Hargreaves before? Viewers will have seen Hargreaves in Doctors previously.
Stephen Lord plays Tony Meddon
Who is Tony Meddon? Tony is father of the victim, Danny.
Where have I seen Stephen Lord before? Lord played Tez in Coronation Street in 2021, but has also appeared in the likes of Domina, The South Westerlies and Safe House.
Farzana Dua Elahe plays Basma Shah
Who is Basma Shah? Basma is Milan's partner. She's hiding secrets for her husband.
Where have I seen Farzana Dua Elahe before? Elahe has starred in the likes of Next of Kin, Our Girl, Honour and Into the Badlands.
Bryan Dick plays Alun Barrie
Who is Alun Barrie? Alun is Leanne's father, who doesn't like his daughter growing closer to Danny.
Where have I seen Bryan Dick before? Viewers will know Dick from a multitude of shows including Ridley, Midsomer Murders, The Split and Wolf Hall.
Samantha Seager plays Kathy Barrie
Who is Kathy Barrie? Kathy is Leanne's mum.
Where have I seen Samantha Seager before? Seager recently starred in EastEnders as DS Miles, but you'll have also seen her in Casualty, Holby City and Doctors.
Susan Jayne-Robinson plays Alison Rahim
Who is Alison Rahim? Alison is Danny's biological mum.
Where have I seen Susan Janye-Robinson before? Jayne-Robinson has made her way around a few different soaps, having had roles in Coronation Street, Emmerdale, Doctors and Hollyoaks, as well as All Creatures Great and Small and Tin Star.
Beruce Khan plays Neil Rahim
Who is Neil Rahim? Neil is Alison's husband.
Where have I seen Beruce Khan before? Viewers will have seen Khan in War of the Worlds, The Capture and The Thief, His Wife and the Canoe.
Former Vera cast members
Ibibnabo Jack plays DC Jacqueline 'Jac' Williams
Who is DC Jacqueline 'Jac' Williams? A young and talented detective with a wry sense of humour and a knack at finding key witnesses and crucial information.
Where have I seen Ibibnabo Jack before? Jack played Theresa Sutton in Doctors, and has previously starred in the film Two for Joy.
Kenny Doughty plays DS Aiden Healy
Who is DS Aiden Healy? Vera's right-hand man, DS Aiden Healy has proven himself to be a fiercely loyal and hard working partner-in-solving-crime. He's a family man with a young boy, and when it comes to cases about fathers and sons or children he sometimes struggles to keep his emotions in check.
Where have I seen Kenny Doughty before? Doughty previously played Jake Harman in Coronation Street and Sean in Stella. He's also more recently starred in Kay Mellor’s BBC One drama Love, Lies and Records, and in an episode of Black Work (playing Ryan Gillespie).
Jake Ashton-Nelson plays PC Billington
Who is PC Billington? "Billy" is a bit of a nightmare for Vera; he's not as thorough as she would like him to be and often misses crucial details. But there's something incredibly loveable and heart-warming about him, which Vera can't quite escape.
Where have I seen Jake Ashton-Nelson before? Vera marks Ashton-Nelson's first major TV role.
Vera Christmas special guest stars
- Clare Holman plays Annie Laidlore
- Adrian Mills plays Rick Kelsall
- Suzette Llewellyn plays Louisa Hampton
- Brian Bovell plays Sam Hampton
- Orlessa Altass plays Yaz Kaur
- Phil Cornwell plays Philip Robson
- Adrian Rawlins plays Daniel Rede
- Kate Isitt plays Charlotte Thomas
- Felicity Dean plays Cecilia
- Natasha Patel plays Pamela
- Sara Powell plays Katherine Willmore
- Cora Kirk plays Eliza Willmore
- Martin Turner plays Gordon Stanwick
- Eric Richard plays Isaiah Thomas
- Phillippa Wilson plays Ellie Thomas
- Liz Crowther plays Judith Sinclair
- Sam Halfpenny plays Superintendent Watkins
- Peter Peverley plays Jacob
Vera: The Rising Tide guest stars
Clare Holman plays Annie Laidlore
Who is Annie Laidlore? Annie is one of the suspects in the Lindisfarne house. She has some secrets that emerge during the investigation. Annie is the one who found Rick.
Where have I seen Clare Holman before? Accomplished actress Holman has starred in the likes of Blood Diamond (as a news reporter), Suite Française (as Marthe) and Lewis (as Dr Laura Hobson). She's also been in The Diplomat as Paula and Treason as Mary Angelis.
Adrian Mills plays Rick Kelsall
Who is Rick Kelsall? Vera is called to investigate Rick's death. At first, it looks like a tragic suicide, but when she looks closely, she discovers someone killed Rick - and it soon emerges there are plenty with a reason to. Rick was a minor celebrity who was involved in a scandal.
Where have I seen Adrian Mills before? Mills is perhaps best known for his role on That's Life! with Esther Rantzen which he was a part of for seven years. He was also a location reporter on Surprise, Surprise and made a name for himself in the world of acting through roles in Doctor Who, Brookside and Minder.
Suzette Llewellyn plays Louisa Hampton
Who is Louisa Hampton? Louisa is one of the suspects at the Lindisfarne house.
Where have I seen Suzette Llewellyn before? You'll best know Llewellyn from the likes of EastEnders (where she played Sheree Trueman), Our House (where she played Grace Deakin) and Top Boy (where she played Charlotte).
Brian Bovell plays Sam Hampton
Who is Sam Hampton? Sam is one of the suspects at the Lindisfarne house.
Where have I seen Brian Bovell before? Bovell has starred in several popular TV shows, such as Andor, Grantchester and Ghosts. He will also be recognisable to fans of Love Actually, who'll know him as the Radio Watford DJ.
Phil Cornwell plays Philip Robson
Who is Philip Robson? Philip is one of the suspects in the case staying at the Lindisfarne house.
Where have I seen Phil Cornwell before? Cornwell has enjoyed a successful career across the small and big screens, most notably starring in the likes of Mrs Brown's Boys, Call the Midwife, Strike and Man vs Bee. His most recent role was as Sanson the Bourreau in Napoleon.
Sam Halpenny plays Superintendent Watkins
Who is Superintendent Watkins? The Superintendent urges Vera to look into Rick's death and is on her case throughout her investigations when she starts to poke her nose in where she isn't wanted...
Where have I seen Sam Halpenny before? Halpenny is perhaps best known for his roles in Raymond's 5, Backup and The Knock.
Kate Isitt plays Charlotte Thomas
PIC
Who is Charlotte Thomas? Charlotte is Rick's ex-wife. She becomes crucial in the investigation into Rick's death.
Where have I seen Kate Isitt before? Thomas will be very familiar to most, having starred as Sally in Coupling. she also played Felicity in Last Tango in Halifax and Lady Macbeth in If It Were Done.
Eric Richard plays Isaiah Thomas
Who is Isaiah Thomas? Isaiah's reputation precedes him - he's part of the biggest crime families in the North East. And his daughter was married to the deceased.
Where have I seen Eric Richard before? Eric Richard has enjoyed a successful career across the big and small screens. He's starred in blockbusters such as Dunkirk and Little Dorrit. He's also had roles in EastEnders, Casualty and Holby City.
Adrian Rawlins plays Daniel Rede
Who is Daniel Rede? Daniel is Annie's ex boyfriend.
Where have I seen Andrian Rawlins before? Rawlins will be very familiar with viewers of The Sixth Commandment, Slow Horses, All Creatures Great and Small or Gentleman Jack. He's also appeared in One Life and most notably, the Harry Potter series as James Potter.
Sara Powell plays Katherine Willmore
Who is Katherine Willmore? Katherine is the new Police and Crime Commissioner and has only been in the job a month. When Vera starts poking around her partner, she gets a stern warning to stay away...
Where have I seen Sara Powell before? Viewers might know Powell from the likes of Murder in Provence, Ghosts and The Killing Kind. She's also appeared in Doctor Who as Mary Seacole.
Cora Kirk plays Eliza Willmore
Who is Eliza Willmore? Eliza is the Police and Crime Commissioner's daughter.
Where have I seen Cora Kirk before? Kirk has appeared in the likes of Doctors, Midomer Murders and After Everything, but viewers will know her from Prey for the Devil and Your Christmas or Mine 2.
Season 12 episode 1 guest stars
- Paul Bown plays Glynn Allen
- Samantha Spiro plays Belinda Rayford
- Robert Wilfort plays Cal Wallace
- Amanda Horlock plays Julia Channing
- Dharmesh Patel plays Nitesh Aya
- Patricia Potter plays Oonagh Wallace
- Ade Ajibade plays Leonie Becker
- Flynn Allen plays Lyle Channing
- Jasmine Kerr plays Alison Ayad
- Theo Solomon plays Jason Hewley
- Harvey Smith plays Frank Channing
- Rachel Morris plays Carmen Harris
- Eilis Konstantina plays Amy Watson
Season 11 episode 4 guest stars
Charlotte Baker plays Lisa Millworth
Who is Lisa Millworth? Lisa is the unfortunate victim of this week's murder mystery. In gruesome scenes, she is found washed up on the shore of the River Tyne, with no explanation as to how she got there - that is, until, Vera starts investigating.
Where have I seen Charlotte Baker before? This is Baker's first major TV role.
Michael Balogun plays Lee Millworth
Who is Lee Millworth? Lee is Lisa's husband and doesn't quite tell
Where have I seen Michael Balogun before? Balogun has enjoyed a successful career across the small screen and stage. He played Cyprus in Top Gun, Face in You Don't Know Me, Delroy in the National Theatre Live's Death of England - Delroy, and the Doctor in the National Theatre Live's Macbeth.
Catherine Dryden plays Joanne Smith
Who is Joanne Smith? Joanne is Lisa's best friend who doesn't tell Vera the whole truth - a dangerous game around the detective.
Where have I seen Catherine Dryden before? Vera is Dryden's first major TV role.
Kris Mochrie plays Adam Michaels
Who is Adam Michaels? Adam is the father to Lisa's daughter, Sam. They work together at the wind turbine factory and their relationship is fraught.
Where have I seen Kris Mochrie before? Mochrie is best known for playing Lee Posner in Emmerdale, but has also starred as Daley in Bulletproof, Scott in The League of Gentlemen and Jez in Ordinary Lies.
Poppy Winter plays Sam Michaels
Who is Sam Michaels? Sam is Lisa and Adam's daughter, though she has a better relationship with Lee, who she calls her father.
Where have I seen Poppy Winter before? This is Winter's first major TV role.
Ross Waiton plays Damien Richardson
Who is Damien Richardson? Damien is Lisa's boss and the CEO of the wind turbine factory. He's ruthless in business and not happy about Vera poking her nose around the company.
Where have I seen Ross Waiton before? Waiton has enjoyed a very successful career in the industry, having starred in James Bond movie, Skyfall as a police guard. He's also appeared in The Thief, His Wife and the Canoe as a lifeboat coxswain, and a captain in the National Theatre Live's adaptation of King Lear.
Andrew Whipp plays Warren Dryden
Who is Warren Dryden? Warren is a worker at the wind turbine factor and it's safe to say he's got his fair share of enemies. His bad attitude catches Vera's interest.
Where have I seen Andrew Whipp before? Whipp is probably best-known for his role of Brian Fraser in Outlander and he also played Danny Cairns in Shetland.
Rochelle Goldie plays Jess Farnsby
Who is Jess Farnsby? Jess is Sam's girlfriend who lived at Lisa and Lee's house. There's a complex secret about Jess that emerges.
Where have I seen Rochelle Goldie before? Before Vera, Goldie appeared in two shorts, called A Series of Light and Skating By.
Also starring in The Way the Wind Blows:
- Stacey Evans plays Ashley Dryden
- Hopi Grace plays Ruth Farnsby
- Jon Edgley-Bond plays Barry Farnsby
- Alan Stocks plays John Batley
- Sian Webber plays Glenda McMann
- Ezra Faroque Khan plays Hisham Kalb
- Cynthia Emeagi plays Gemma Thompson
Season 11 episode 3 guest stars
Hugh Quarshie plays Dr Leon Palmer
Who is Dr Leon Palmer? Leon is an acquaintance of Lucy and is hiding a lot of secrets.
Where have I seen Hugh Quarshie before? Esteemed-actor Quarshie mmost recently appeared in Riches as Stephen Richards and Holby City as Ric Griffin. He's perhaps best known for playing Captain Panaka in Star Wars: Episode 1 - The Phantom Menace.
Issey King plays Martha Palmer
Who is Martha Palmer? Martha is Leon and Olivia's daughter. She is hiding a few secrets which Vera is desperate to find out more about.
Where have I seen Issey King before? This is King's first major TV role.
Frances Grey plays Olivia Palmer
Who is Olivia Palmer? Olivia is Leon's wife and the mother of Martha.
Where have I seen Frances Grey before? Grey has appeared in Doctors, Traces and Van der Valk along her career. Most recently, she played Clare in Bloods.
Geoffrey Lumb plays Rob McShane
Who is Rob McShane? Rob is Lucy's husband who's entirely baffled at who called her out on an emergency so late at night...
Where have I seen Geoffrey Lumb before? This is Lumb's first major TV role.
Angela Sims plays Pat Cringle
Who is Pat Cringle? Suspicious Pat had a couple of run-ins with Lucy before she died - is Pat guilty?
Where have I seen Angela Sims before? Sims has appeared in 2021 Cruella as Society Maven, and has also appeared in the likes of Call the Midwife as Lil in 2020 and The Crown as Princess Margaret's Dresser in 2016. She's also had roles in Casualty, New Tricks and Law & Order: UK.
Garry Cooper plays Chris Cringle
Who is Chris Cringle? Chris Cringle is Pat's husband, and equally as shady as her.
Where have I seen Garry Cooper before? Most recently, Cooper appeared in House of the Dragon as Lord Ryam Redwyne, but has also had roles in Gangs of London, Landscapers, Temple and New Tricks. He also starred in 1979 cult film, Quadrophenia, as Peter.
Joyce Veheary plays Dr Lucy Yo
Who is Dr Lucy Yo? Dr Yo is unfortunately this episode of Vera's victim. She is found brutally murdered in a quarry and the circumstances of her death - and who killed her - are a big mystery.
Where have I seen Joyce Veheary before? You'll have seen Veheary in Trying and The Dumping Ground most recently, where she played Lorna and Mayumi respectively. She has also had a recurring role in Coronation Street between 2014 and 2020 as a sonographer.
Also starring in Vital Signs:
- Danyal Ismail plays Yousef Adwan
- Spike Leighton plays Aaron Kirkstall
- Freya McNulty plays Zoe McShane
- Isabel Butt plays Raya Bellingham
- Sean Kearns plays James Stratton
- Kirsten Foster plays Tasmin Yo
- Heather Bleasdale plaus Val Kirkstall
Season 11 episode 2 guest stars
Karlina Grace-Paseda plays Angela Konan
Who is Angela Konan? Angela Konan is unfortunately episode 2's murder victim.
Where have I seen Karlina Grace-Paseda before? Grace-Paseda has appeared in the likes of EastEnders and Doctors before.
Caroline Lee Johnson plays Darlene Houghton
Who is Darlene Houghton? Darlene is Angela's manager.
Where have I seen Caroline Lee Johnson before? People may recognise Johnson from Holby City and Gangs of London.
Ayten Manyera plays Ayisha Nassar
Who is Ayisha Nassar? Ayisha is one of Angela's clients.
Where have I seen Ayten Manyera before? Manyera has appeared in Kiss Me First and Holby City.
Sian Reese-Williams plays Beth Draper
Who is Beth Draper? Beth is another of Angela's clients.
Where have I seen Sian Reese-Williams before? Reese-Williams has appeared in Line of Duty, but many will recognise her as Gennie in Emmerdale.
Also starring in Recovery:
- Mia McKenna-Bruce plays Maya Draper
- Mark Benton plays Stanley Booth
- Cayyvan Coates plays Noel Henderson
- Natasha Atkinson plays Kirsty Smith
- Jamie Ballard plays Duncan Maxwell
- Natasha Alderslade plays Lou Maxwell
- Louis Emerick plays Jack Kassin
- Shvorne Marks plays Lara Kassin
- Edem-Ita Duke plays Reuben Kassin
- John Bulwich plays Shaun Barrow
Season 11 episode 1 guest stars
Ian Bonar plays Ewan Webster
Who is Ewan Webster? A local professional who works with vulnerable people, and with connections to a well-respected local builder, Jim Tullman, who is found beaten to death on the steps of the Collingwood Monument. As Vera discovers, Jim was due to testify as a witness to a violent crime.
Where have I seen Ian Bonar before? He's known for I May Destroy You, Skyfall, Now Blood, Atonement, and Starter for 10, among other projects.
Rina Mahoney as Aliah Kapoor
Who is Aliah Kapoor? A lawyer with links to murder victim Jim Tullman.
Where have I seen Rina Mahoney before? Although best known for her work on-stage with the Royal Shakespeare Company, the actress is also known for roles on Doctors, Hollyoaks, and Scott & Bailey.
Micky McGregor plays John Paul Tullman
Who is John Paul Tullman? The adoring adult son of murder victim Jim Tullman. He learns that his father has died in our exclusive Vera preview for season 11, in which Vera breaks the news to him.
Where have I seen Micky McGregor before? The actor is known for I, Daniel Blake, Sorry We Missed You, among other projects.
Season 10 episode 3 guest stars
Emily Stott plays Georgia Hay
Who is Georgia Hay? An old friend and neighbour of Luke Sumner, who has died following an assault. Her sister went to school with Luke.
Where have I seen Emily Stott before? The up-and-coming actress is still starting out in her career, but has appeared in shorts and onstage in A Comedy about a Bank Robbery.
Jacqueline Boatswain plays Sarah Ashers
Who is Sarah Ashers? The mother of Jasmine, who used to date Luke when they were teenagers.
Where have I seen Jacqueline Boatswain before? The actress recently starred in Hollyoaks as Simone Loveday, and plays Frances Holland in this year's Bancroft series. She's previously starred in Grange Hill and Shameless.
Leah Walker plays Jasmine Ashers
Who is Jasmine Ashers? An ex-girlfriend of the deceased, Luke.
Where have I sen Leah Walker before? Walker has appeared in Safe, Stan Lee's Lucky Man, The Dumping Ground, The Royals, and In The Dark.
Dempsey Bovell as Jojo Walters
Who is Jojo Walters? A mini-bus driver who works for the same cleaning company that Luke did.
Where have I seen Dempsey Bovell before? Bovell played a drug dealer in Patrick Melrose alongside Benedict Cumberbatch, and has previously had cameos in Solo: A Star Wars Story and Rocketman.
Episode 2 guest stars
Martha Cope plays Steph Bayliss
Who is Steph Bayliss? The mother of a young man, Dennis, who is found washed up on a beach. She reveals that her son had recently tracked down his birth father.
Where have I seen Martha Cope before? The TV actress has appeared in various shows, including Doctors, Men Behaving Badly, Peak Practice and Family Affairs.
Stuart Laing plays Rob Bayliss
Who is Rob Bayliss? The man who raised Dennis, Rob is married to Steph.
Where have I seen Stuart Laing before? Laing is perhaps best known for playing Rob Minter in the BBC soap opera EastEnders. He's also starred in various shows including 3 Steps to Heaven and Strike Force.
Episode 1 guest stars
Ajay Chhabra plays Nasir Ali
Who is Nasir Ali? A car salesman and father of two whose absent business partner, Freddy Gill, is found mysteriously murdered.
Where have I seen Ajay Chhabra before? Younger viewers might recognise Chhabra as Anil from The Basil Brush Show; he's also played Defense Barrister George Karnad in Holby City and Suresh Mattai in the BBC Radio series The Archers.
Viraj Juneja plays Saddiq Ali
Who is Saddiq Ali? Nasir's youngest son, Saddiq is a university student and is coddled by both his father and older brother.
Where have I seen Viraj Juneja before? The actor has previously starred in Doctors, Boyz in the Wood and The Stand Up Sketch Show.
Mariam McLoughlin plays Tina Tripp
Who is Tina Tripp? A proud matriarch and pub owner whose husband has just died; her grandson's father, Freddy Gill, has also just been murdered, but Tina doesn't spare any tears for him.
Where have I seen Mariam McLoughlin before? The actress has previously starred in Party Animals, Holby City, Truckers, and The Bill.
Additional cast for series 10 episode one:
- Ay Saighal as Agrah Ali, Saddiq's older brother
- Josh Barrow as Riley Gill, teenage son of murder victim Freddy Gill
- Barry Aird as Darren Tripp, brother-in-law to widow Tine Tripp
- Charlotte Pyke as Jade Gill, the ex of murder victim Freddy Gill
- Jonathan Spencer as murder victim Freddy Gill
- Brian Lonsdale as Jade's volatile brother, Lee Tripp
Season 9 episode 4 guest stars
Daniel Ryan plays Alec Sidden
Who is Alec Sidden? Boss of Sidden Holdings, and son of the famous Leonard Sidden – a renowned businessman (and crook) who was untouchable in his heyday and has always managed to cover his tracks. Now Leonard is retired, Alec has taken over the company and is determined to make it a legitimate business.
What else has Daniel Ryan been in? Recent roles have included Phil Collins in the Lee Ingleby drama Innocent, Dan in Mount Pleasant, and Bryn Brindsley in Home Fires. He has also appeared in Doctor Who, playing Biff Kane in the 2008 episode Midnight.
Michael McKell plays Michael Claythorpe
Who is Michael Claythorpe? Leonard Sidden's finance guy, and a member of his inner circle back in the nineties. He also happened to know Vera's dad, Hector Stanhope.
What else has Michael McKell been in? He is perhaps best known as DC Nick Henshall from Emmerdale, but left in 2011 when his character died by suicide. Other roles include Dr Nick West in Doctors, Basil in Hatton Garden the Heist, and Joseph Mengele Senior in The Angel of Auschwitz.
Leon Stewart plays Scott Keane
Who is Scott Keane? Scott works for Alec Siddon, and is on the building site when the human remains are discovered. He is recently separated from his wife Patty Keane and their two children.
What else has Leon Stewart been in? The actor has made appearances in Endeavour, Victoria, and The Bill.
Kathleen Cranham plays Patty Keane
Who is Patty Keane? Scott Keane's estranged wife. She was adopted as a child.
What else has Kathleen Cranham been in? The actress is a newcomer to our screens. Brenda Blethyn especially praised her performance, saying: "One of the highlights for me was working with Kathleen Cranham on the fourth episode, The Seagull. It was her first TV role and the performance she gave was great."
Mark Wingett plays John Brace
Who is John Brace? An ex-detective currently in jail for perverting the course of justice. This corrupt cop was involved in some shady business with Leonard Sidden. He also worked with Vera's late father Hector Stanhope.
What else has Mark Wingett been in? This is far from the first time Mark Wingett has played a police officer: he starred as DS Jim Carver in The Bill for more than 780 episodes. Since then he has appeared in the TV series Missing as Danny Hayworth, the movie Snow White and the Huntsman as Thomas, and Mr Turner as Mariner. He is also a stage actor and director.
Michael Feast plays Leonard Sidden
Who is Leonard Sidden? Vera is NOT a big fan of Leonard Sidden. Everyone knows he was a gangster in his heyday, but he handed out bribes and somehow was never brought to justice. Now he is retired and lives locally with his wife Elaine, while their son Alec tries to make his mark on the family business.
What else has Michael Feast been in? Pictured here in a production of Pygmalion at the Garrick Theatre in London, Michael Feast is an accomplished stage actor. He is also known for his TV roles including Aeron Greyjoy in Game of Thrones and Andrew Wilson in State of Play.
Claire Higgins plays Elaine Sidden
Who is Elaine Sidden? Leonard's wife. She has spent a lifetime protecting him and is wary of Vera's renewed interest in the Sidden family business.
What else has Claire Higgins been in? Her film credits include Hellraiser, Small Faces, Ready Player One, and The Golden Compass. On TV she currently stars in Sheridan Smith drama Cleaning Up and children's show The Worst Witch, playing Miss Cackle, while previous roles have included Ohila in Doctor Who and Mrs Bartlett in Downton Abbey. She is also a three-time Olivier Award winner who can often be found on the West End or Broadway stage.
Josie Walker plays Mary-Frances Lascola
Who is Mary-Frances Lascola? We first encounter Mary-Frances as the young girl in the photograph taken at nightclub The Seagull.
What else has Josie Walker been in? She is an Olivier-nominated musicals star, with credits including Cats, The Beautiful Game, Evita, Matilda the Musical, and Everybody's Talking about Jamie. On TV Josie Walker has appeared in Call the Midwife, Waterloo Road, and Holby City.
Additional guest stars for episode 4:
- Steve Evets plays PC George Wooten
- Delena Kidd plays Eleanor Marshburn
- Ian Reddington plays Glen Polson
- Angela Wynter plays Justine Brace
- Joanne Henry plays Alison Mackie
- Zita Sattar plays Laura Harper
Episode 3 guest stars
Robert James-Collier plays Richard
Who is Richard? A businessman who invests in the hospitality industry. He owns the boat which hosted the booze cruise where Dani died.
What else has Robert James-Collier been in? His most famous role is in Downton Abbey, playing Thomas Barrow – a role he is set to reprise in the upcoming Downton movie. Recently he starred in an episode of Death in Paradise, and he's also been in The Level, A Christmas Star, and Coronation Street – as Liam Connor.
Shivani Ghai plays Lisa Varsey
Who is Lisa Varsey? Successful businesswoman Lisa Varsey is owner of an empire of beauty salons in Newcastle. She was hosting a lavish boat party on the River Tyne when her sister went overboard.
What else has Shivani Ghai been in? After starring as Ayesha Rana in EastEnders, the actress went on to play Arika in Dominion, Amal Mansoor in London Has Fallen, and Felicity in The Catch. Her other credits include House of Saddam, Identity (starring Keeley Hawes), and Five Days II.
Patrick Baladi plays Ross Varsey
Who is Ross Varsey? Lisa's caring husband. He runs the training side of the family business.
What else has Patrick Baladi been in? He played Neil Godwin in The Office. You may also have spotted him in Marcella (as Stephen Holmes), Line of Duty (as lawyer James Lakewell), Stella (as Michael Jackson) and No Offence (as Lionel Dirkin).
Russ Bain plays Nial
Who is Nial? The boyfriend of victim Dani. The Varsey family are keen to blame him for her death, but Nial maintains his innocence.
What else has Russ Bain been in? The actor has appeared in a handful of minor roles in Bodyguard, Manhunt, Snatch and The Rack Pack. He voices characters in video games, including characters in State of Mind, Battlefield V, Spellforce 3 and Mass Effect: Andromeda.
Sonita Henry plays Sadie
Who is Sadie? Lisa (and Dani)'s sister.
What else has Sonita Henry been in? As pictured above, she starred as Raika in Krypton. Sonita Henry recently appeared as Daria Shubik in Luther, and has also taken on roles in Doctor Who (as Colonel Meme), Olympus, The Good Karma Hospital, and Star Trek.
Elizabeth Berrington plays Paula
Who is Paula? A member of the Varsey family.
What else has Elizabeth Berrington been in? Recent credits include Stella, Patrick Melrose, Little Boy Blue, and Vanity Fair – where she played the awful Lady Bareacres. She has also featured in Doctor Who, Being Eileen, Waterloo Road, Camping, Black Mirror and Doctors.
Additional guest stars for episode 3:
- Natasha Atherton plays victim Danielle, otherwise known as Dani
- Gordon Kennedy plays boat captain Eddie
- Laura Jane Matthewson plays Eddie's daughter and crew member Kirsty
- Esther Hall plays coastguard Gayle
- Natalie Gumede (best known for Coronation Street and Strictly) plays hairdresser Megan Sibisi
Episode 2 guest stars
John Hollingworth plays PC Shawn Turnly
Who is PC Shawn Turnly? Local cop PC Turnly knows everybody in town. When a body is found and a murder investigation opened, he must work with Vera and her team to track down the killer – but will his connections to the local area be a help or a hindrance?
What else has John Hollingworth been in? The actor is perhaps best known for his role as Captain Henshawe in Poldark. His other credits include Dark Angel, Doc Martin, Da Vinci's Demons, The Hour, Top Coppers, and Transformers: The Last Knight.
Chelsea Edge plays Kayleigh Mincham
Who is Kayleigh Mincham? Stroppy teenager Kayleigh works at the cafe in town, waiting tables. She is estranged from her dad Gary, who owns the struggling boatyard where the body of murder victim Caden is found.
What else has Chelsea Edge been in? She appeared as the real Alice Webster in The Missing, and starred in Wolf Alice's music video for Don't Delete the Kisses.
Dean Fagan plays Dave Miller
Who is Dave Miller? Down at the Ferrycross Estate, Dave tries to keep the local kids out of trouble at his community centre.
What else has Dean Fagan been in? The actor spent four years starring as Luke Britton in Coronation Street. His other credits include Homefront, Fresh Meat, and All at Sea.
Louis Healy plays Tyler Lennon
Who is Tyler Lennon? The younger brother of murder victim Caden Lennon. The two of them have been raised in care after the death of their mother, and Tyler is a vulnerable teenager full of rage and grief.
What else has Louis Healy been in? He appeared in the TV series Hetty Feather, as well as Scott & Bailey, Doctors, and Sometimes Always Never.
Additional cast for episode two:
- Ben Robinson plays murder victim Caden Lennon
- Sam Chapman plays bathroom attendant and drug addict Declan Price
- Deka Walmsley plays boatyard owner (and Kayleigh's dad) Gary Mincham
- Pauline Turner plays Kayleigh's mum Bridie Mincham
- Stephanie Street plays the Lennon brothers' foster mum Christine Madden
- Vineeta Rishi plays yacht club boss Nita Dajani
- Jonny Lavelle plays boatyard employee Alan White
- Mark Addy plays ex drug-dealer and local club owner Tony Briggs
- Lorcan Cranitch plays café owner and neighbourhood busybody Roy Brewer
- Assad Zaman plays surf instructor Lee Nadella
- Matt Cross plays Nathaniel "Nat" Halpin
Episode 1 guest stars
Peter Davison plays Matthew Wells
Who is Matthew Wells? The senior forensic psychologist of Northumberland's prison, HMP Scanton. He worked with the murder victim, Joanne Caswell, who was a trainee forensic psychologist.
What else has Peter Davison been in? Doctor Who star Peter Davison played the Fifth Doctor, and is also the father of Georgia Moffett – who appeared in the BBC time-travel show and went on to marry David Tennant. Davison's other credits include Sink or Swim, Law & Order: UK, Toast of London, and Liar. He'll soon appear in the TV series Gentleman Jack.
- For the latest news and expert tips on getting the best deals this year, take a look at our Black Friday 2021 and Cyber Monday 2021 guides.
Seeta Indrani plays Sandra Main
Who is Sandra Main? Matthew Wells' loyal and capable office co-ordinator at HMP Scanton.
What else has Seeta Indrani been in? The actress recently played Bryce in the TV drama Unforgotten, and portrayed Dr Amira Shah in the Jodie Whittaker thriller Trust Me. Indrani also appeared in Catastrophe, playing the character Harita, and spent several years starring as Dr Lily Hassan in Doctors.
Additional cast for season 9 episode 1:
- Sharon Singh plays murder victim and trainee forensic psychologist Joanne Caswell
- Amira Ghazalla plays her mother Ava Caswell
- Adrian Lukis plays her father Graham Caswell
- Faith Alabi plays her girlfriend Melanie Kirk
- James Atherton plays football coach Kieran Webb
- Jodie McNee plays Kieran's wife Natalie Webb
- Andrew Readman plays retired detective Jim Paisley
- Sean Cernow plays ex-inmate Paul Eastman
- Caitlin Drabble plays a former inmate's little sister Ashleigh Beck
- Gerard McDermott plays bereaved father Frank Payne
Vera season 13 will start airing at 8pm on Sunday 7th January 2024. To find out what else is on, check out our TV Guide or visit our dedicated Drama hub. You can buy the first of Ann Cleeves's Vera novels here.
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Authors
Helen Daly is the Associate Editor for Radio Times, overseeing new initiatives and commercial projects for the brand. She was previously Deputy TV Editor at a national publication. She has a BA in English Literature and an MA in Media & Journalism from Newcastle University.
