viewers were quick to notice a familiar face during the New Year’s Day episode of the hit drama — a former star’s big return after ten years after departing the soap.
Chelsea Halfpenny, best known for playing Amy Wyatt in from 2010 to 2013, made an appearance as Kimberly Martin in the latest episode of Vera.
Fans were thrilled to see Chelsea back on screens, though she looked almost unrecognisable with her now-light blonde hair replacing the dark locks she sported during her soap days.
The episode saw Brenda Blethyn return as DCI Vera Stanhope, investigating the mysterious death of a young man whose body was found on the banks of the Tyne.
Chelsea has kept busy since her days, starring in musicals such as Waitress and Sister Act. In her personal life, she got engaged to fellow actor James Baxter and welcomed their daughter, Cream Knuckleberry Baxter, in June.
In 2022, Chelsea told the Metro, “I only left because I was 22. I was young and wanted to try other things. My character is back now, but it’s not me playing her. Over the years, they had asked if I wanted to return a couple of times, and I’d said no.”
Chelsea Halfpenny joined the regular cast on Vera as a guest (Image: ITV)
Acting also runs in the family. Chelsea’s aunt is Jill Halfpenny, known for her roles in Byker Grove, , and Waterloo Road.
Reflecting on her aunt’s career, Chelsea said, “As a child, I really looked up to Jill and her life seemed really cool. She lived in London, and she did all these fun jobs.”
Meanwhile, Blethlyn was joined for the final ever episodes of the Vera by familiar faces, including David Leon as Joe Ashworth, Shobna Gulati as Chief Superintendent Khalon, and Riley Jones as DC Mark Edwards.
ITV’s cherished detective drama has drawn to a close after a remarkable 14-year run. The show’s conclusion was pinned on the decision of acclaimed actress Brenda to leave the titular role she has took on from day one.
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Chelsea played Amy Wyatt in Emmerdale from 2010 to 2013 (Image: ITV)
Chelsea has a striking new look (Image: Instagram)
The actress, now 78, cited the challenge of , art director Michael Mayhew, and their beloved dog Jack.
Despite the fictional world of Vera being set against the backdrop of Newcastle, Blethyn and her husband call Kent home.
Reflecting on her reasons for stepping down, Brenda shared: “It was a lovely summer back in 2023 and I came to realise I hadn’t had a summer with my husband for 14 years.
“Naturally I missed my family. And my dog Jack, although he was with me in the North East.”
“But I didn’t see him much because I was working all day. I love my Vera family, but I love my other family too.”