Vera star moves on from ITV show joining Death in Paradise actor and Poirot legend for new role
Vera's Kenny Doughty has secured a fresh role in Channel 5's forthcoming drama, The Au Pair, following his exit from the ITV programme. The series will also star Sir David Suchet, famed for his portrayal of Poirot, and Sally Bretton from Beyond Paradise and Death in Paradise.
The drama is set to delve into family dynamics, trust, and concealed truths against the stunning backdrop of the British countryside." The storyline centres around Zoe Dalton (Sally Bretton), who seems to have everything - a successful husband Chris (Kenny Doughty), two delightful stepchildren, a booming tailoring business, and a beautiful home in a picturesque English town. However, her life takes an unexpected twist when she encounters marital issues and her diabetic father, George (David Suchet), moves in next door.
As the pressure escalates, Zoe reluctantly employs an Au Pair, Sandrine (Ludmilla Makowski), whose arrival sparks unsettling shifts in the household, suggesting hidden motives and long-hidden truths.
On Twitter, Kenny posted a poster from ITV about his casting news. Alongside the poster he simply penned: "Yep."
ITV captioned its post: "Secrets are revealed when a family decides to hire extra help... Sir @David_Suchet, Sally Bretton, and @kennydoughty join the new compelling drama, 'The Au Pair', coming soon to @channel5_tv. A @MediaPernel and MK1 Studios co-production. Produced in association with ITV Studios."
"Well done Kenny I am happy for you I hope you are keeping well," wrote one fan in response.Another concurred, "Oh, great news! You will work with David Suchet! I hope to see it also in Italy!"
Another commented: "Kenny mate, I've never seen you as an Au Pair what would Vera think good luck. "(sic)
Brenda Blethyn, his co-star who is also exiting her iconic role, expressed her feelings about Kennys departure when he left the series at the end of last year: "I was sad when he said he was leaving. He's my mate. We had filmed eight series together. I've never laughed so hard as I did with Kenny Doughty. Vera and Aiden became very close over the years."
Vera's Kenny Doughty
"It's not surprising because she spent most of her time with him at work. And it was a good working relationship between the two characters as well as liking each other.
"Kenny and I kept each other company between scenes during long days, weeks, and months of filming. As well as at weekends because we were both working away from home. It's a total commitment. Kenny was also my neighbour in the apartments where I stay during filming. I'll miss him and wish him well."