Channel 5 launch brand new detective drama to rival ITV’s Vera ahead of final ever series

VERA fans are lamenting the loss of Brenda Blethyn as TV's best loved detective but hopefully a new crime series will ease their sorrow.

As DCI Stanhope filmed her final scenes, bosses on Channel 5 have seen the opportunity to invent a whole new female detective to take her place in the nation's hearts.

Channel 5 and Acorn TV have commissioned a new feature length three-part series called Ellis - coming soon.

The series follows DCI Ellis, a determined black female police officer who is known for cracking unsolved crimes.

Ellis will be played by three-time Olivier Award winner Sharon D Clarke who is better known for roles in Showtrial, Lost Boys & Fairies and Rocketman.

Each two-hour episode sees Ellis and her sidekick DS Harper, played by Andrew Gower, who you may have seen in The Winter King, Carnival Row and Outlander.

The detective duo arrive in a new town where Ellis goes all out to 'win over' local detectives and help them to solve mysteries.

Ellis is a first-class murder detective, with a determination for justice and a deep well of compassion for those who need it.

Sebastian Cardwell, Deputy Chief Content Officer, Paramount UK, said: “Ellis is a brilliant addition to our scripted slate, and we are thrilled to be working with the teams at Acorn TV and Company Pictures on this gripping new series.

"I can’t wait to see the incredible Sharon D Clarke bring DCI Ellis to life.”

Catherine Mackin, Managing Director, Acorn Media Enterprises (Acorn TV), shares: “Acorn TV is known for compelling, intriguing and invigorating detective dramas, and Ellis delivers on every note.

"We are elated to have found our ideal DCI in the incomparable Sharon D Clarke, and we are excited to work with both Channel 5 and Company Pictures again.”

Michele Buck, CEO, Company Pictures, added: “Company Pictures are proud and delighted to be creating a new detective series for Channel 5 and Acorn with funding from Northern Ireland Screen, in association with All3Media International.

"Sharon D Clarke is the perfect DCI Ellis, who will bring her inimitable talents to this inventive and powerful new female-led detective series.”

David Swetman, SVP Content and Commercial Strategy at All3Media International, also commented: “We’re delighted to be distributing this new crime series from Company Pictures. Following the investigations of the enigmatic DCI Ellis will be a delight for audiences around the world.”

Ellis is coming soon to Channel 5.