Vera star makes career announcement after quitting ITV series

Kenny Doughty has excited fans by revealing that he's working on a new TV project, just over a year after he departed from the beloved ITV series Vera.

Kenny became a fan favourite in Vera when he stepped into the shoes of DS Aiden Healy in the fifth series, taking over from David Leon who made an unexpected exit, much to the dismay of the show's star Brenda Blethyn.

Kenny graced the screen for eight years and hinted at his departure with a nostalgic Instagram post featuring photos with his co-stars captioned: "Thanks for the memories." In spring 2023, he confirmed his "difficult decision" to leave.

On Instagram, he expressed his gratitude, saying: "I want to thank everyone who's made this amazing time so joyous, ITV, Silverprint, all the brilliant cast and crew BUT of course my buddy and inspiration Brenda Blethyn. The perfect leading star who I owe so much to. I feel lucky to have you as a friend, you make me howl with laughter and have been a rock for me over the years. I can't thank you enough. Precious times."

He concluded his heartfelt message with a nod to the show's dedicated audience: "And finally the Vera fans: without you and your support I would never have made so many films. You really are the best fans in the world. Thank you so much for your loyalty and love for the show."

Kenny has been keeping a low profile since the episode aired in December.

Filmed at the end of 2022, Kenny has since enjoyed some downtime in Shetland with his new wife, the acclaimed actress Ashley Jensen, who's been busy shooting the latest instalment of the BBC drama Shetland.

However, Kenny's fans can rejoice as the actor hinted at his return to the spotlight. Earlier this week, he took to Instagram to share that he's back on set.

Posting a snapshot of a pint of Guinness at Dublin airport, Kenny captioned it: "Slainte! Treating myself to an early weekend pint at the airport. Week 1 of filming in the bag! ! Looking forward to a weekend home. Have gorgeous weekends!" (sic)

The post sparked a flurry of excitement among his followers, with one fan eagerly asking: "What's coming up? Miss you on Vera - miss you very much."

While another queried: "What you filming and do you miss Vera it's not the same without you."

"What are you filming?" someone else went on to ask.