The news that David Leon is coming back to Vera has left many viewers asking exactly the same question - just what role is his character going to play in the new series?
There was sadness amongst fans of the much loved ITV drama and its cast, particularly 'heartbroken' leading lady Brenda Blethyn, when David left Vera after four series, having been a firm favourite as DCI Stanhope's first ever sidekick, DS Joe Ashworth.
And now, no-one is more delighted that BAFTA and Golden Globe winner Brenda that David is making a shock return, with his comeback confirmed by ITV as Vera series 13 was confirmed towards the end of last week. David reprising his role as Jowe comes directly after Vera's current sidekick, DS Aiden Healy, will bow out of the show, with actor Kenny Doughty announcing his departure last month.
READ MORE: Vera star Kenny Doughty's famous girlfriend lands role in another Ann Cleeves drama
Like Brenda, many fans were thrilled to learn that 'OG' sidekick David will be back, but given that he left in very mysterious circumstances, they aren't sure just how he'll fit into the plot now.
Rather than David having an actual exit storyline when he left, he had an 'off screen exit,' with only a brief explanation given on his whereabouts by Brenda early in series five, when she told replacement partner in crime Aiden: "Oh, big promotion. Nice house next to an ‘outstanding’ school. Another girl on the way."
Things were made even more awkward when Vera called Aiden, Joe, by mistake, referring to DS Ashworth as "the old you."
Given that he was said to be have given a promotion, Vera fans are wondering if Joe will be back as the new sidekick or have more of a guest role, with one taking to Facebook to post: "So is his character Joe getting demoted to come back? I thought he "left" the team for a promotion & better pay to support all his bairns LOL"
The fan added: "Don't get me wrong I love David Leon & was sad when he left. Just wondering how they intend to bring him back. Will he be brought in to assist Vera in a special episode with some serial killer he was tracking or something like that? Either way we'll be watching."
A second reacted: "Will miss Kenny as I grew to really love his character but welcome back joe don’t know how they will do it as sure he left to be a DCI but cannot wait"
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