Kenny Doughty has sparked panic amongst Vera fans with a cryptic 'thanks for the memories' post on Instagram, which has left his followers worried that either he has quit the drama or, even worse, that the show itself has been axed.
Kenny has been playing DS Aiden Healy on Vera since 2015, becoming a fan favourite, after they were shocked by the sudden departure of Vera's original sidekick David Leon. Kenny, who starred in Coronation Street before joining Vera, played a key role in Vera's recent run, which treated ITV viewers to the last two episodes of series 11 and four new tales from the programme's 12th series.
Vera's latest stint on screen came to an the weekend before last, with it being replaced in its Sunday 8pm slot by Inspector Morse spin-off Endeavour, as fans sought answers on when it would be back.
READ MORE: Vera's Brenda Blethyn suffered costume 'panic' on set of new series
Kenny has been rather quiet on social media during Vera's latest series, but took to Instagram on Thursday, with a post that came out of the blue to those who follow him.
Sharing a selection of photos of him on the Vera set, including ones with leading lady Brenda Blethyn and co-star Jon Morrison, Kenny wrote: "Thank you for the memories."
Given that Kenny offered no further explanation, his post immediately sparked concern from Vera fans that either he had quit or that the show had come to an end.
ONe replied: "Please tell me this doesn't mean you're leaving the series or that the series is over!" Echoing those very same sentiments, another reacted: "Please don't tell me this is the end of Vera. I don't know what I'd do with myself if it is.
A third told the actor: "No! Don't day it! I'm not ready to say goodbye to you and this amazing show."
When contacted by ChronicleLive for a comment, ITV said they had 'no news at present.'
Before series 12 had even ended, Brenda confirmed that another episode - The Rising Tide - had already been filmed, after the cast and crew reunited before Christmas.
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