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Beverley Callard, famed for her iconic portrayal of Liz McDonald on Coronation Street, is back in the spotlight for the 2026 series of I’m A Celebrity South Africa. However, the journey to the jungle has not been without its challenges for the 68-year-old actress, who has faced personal struggles, including a divorce from her third husband and a recent breast cancer diagnosis.
Why Did Beverley Callard Quit Coronation Street?
In 2020, after more than three decades of playing Liz McDonald, Beverley made the decision to leave Coronation Street. This was due to frustrations with her character’s direction, which she felt had become unrealistic. Her agent, Melanie Blake, explained that Beverley wanted to leave on her own terms, as the storylines no longer reflected her character’s history. Beverley herself revealed she didn’t want to appear in scenes she no longer believed in, saying the audience deserved better.
Financial Struggles and Bankruptcy
Despite a long and successful career, Beverley has faced financial difficulties. In 2023, her company went into liquidation, leaving her with debts of around £215,000. This came on top of a bankruptcy in 2012, following struggles with a failed pub business and medical costs. Beverley was candid about the experience, admitting the public perception of her being a showbiz diva who “squandered” her money was far from the truth.
Beverley Callard’s Personal Life and Family
Beverley has been married four times, with her most recent marriage to Jon McEwan, whom she met on a blind date in 2010. Together, they’ve built a life, and Beverley has credited Jon with bringing joy and humor into her life. Despite personal hardships, including her previous marriages and the strain of her breast cancer diagnosis, Beverley has continued to move forward with determination.
Health Battles: Breast Cancer Diagnosis
In early 2026, Beverley revealed that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer just before filming for Fair City began. The news came as a shock, but Beverley chose to continue working, determined to face the disease head-on. She underwent surgery to remove her lymph nodes and is currently focused on her recovery. At a recent launch event in London, Beverley defied cancer with her resilient attitude, defiantly saying, “Bleep cancer!”
New Role in Fair City and Return to the Spotlight
Beverley’s latest career move includes joining the cast of Fair City, where she plays the quirky and unpredictable Lily. This role, years in the making, marks her fresh start after her Coronation Street departure. Moving to Dublin for the role, Beverley is excited about her new life chapter, but it comes amidst ongoing health battles.
Divorce and Personal Struggles
Beverley’s four marriages have been a significant part of her personal journey. She has been open about the struggles of her relationships, including the end of her marriage to Steve Callard, the father of her son Joshua. However, she has found peace in her current marriage with Jon McEwan, her “mega shag,” as she affectionately refers to him.
Her Return to I’m A Celebrity
Beverley first appeared on I’m A Celebrity in 2020, competing alongside other stars like Jordan North and Shane Richie. Reflecting on her time in the jungle, she shared that the experience gave her much-needed confidence, especially in her battle with low self-esteem. In the new series of I’m A Celebrity South Africa, Beverley is back and ready for the challenge.
Despite the emotional turmoil she’s faced, Beverley’s resilience shines through. She continues to inspire fans, not only with her career but with her unflinching approach to life’s hardships. The 2026 series of I’m A Celebrity South Africa promises to be a wild ride for Beverley, who is determined to tackle it all with her usual energy and courage.
Stay tuned for Beverley’s latest adventures in the jungle as she continues her journey of healing, growth, and empowerment.
