Fans of Beverley Callard, the iconic Coronation Street star, have been given a heartfelt update as the actress prepares to begin radiotherapy for breast cancer. The 69-year-old, who plays Liz McDonald on the ITV soap, revealed that doctors had told her she should have started treatment sooner — news that was not what she wanted to hear — but she is now set to start radiotherapy very soon.
Beverley first disclosed her diagnosis earlier this year, explaining that she received the news just minutes before she was due on set for her role in the BBC soap Fair City. “I had some tests just before leaving the UK, literally 15 or 20 minutes before I was in my dressing room,” she said, describing the initial shock and anxiety. “I was quite nervous, thinking, ‘I hope everybody thinks I’m all right.’ And then my consultant rang me and said, ‘You’ve got to come back to the UK.’ I said, ‘I can’t possibly — I’ve just started a new job.’” Despite the sudden news, Beverley emphasized that her cancer is in its very early stages, and she is determined to move forward with courage and positivity.
Recently, Beverley shared a candid update on Instagram after an appointment with her new surgeon in Ireland, where she relocated with her husband Jon McEwan. She explained that the move delayed the transfer of her medical records from England to Ireland, which in turn postponed the start of her radiotherapy. “They are a little concerned because they think I should’ve started radiotherapy before now,” she said. “Of course, because we moved house, it took a while for my medical records to arrive… but they’re all here now.”
The actress reassured fans that she has another appointment scheduled with doctors later this week and will begin treatment very soon. “I’ve got to go back on Thursday morning to see some more doctors and medical people, and then they will begin it soon,” she said. Despite feeling nervous, Beverley expressed determination and optimism: “I’m all ready for it and I’m full of beans and really going for it.”
Beverley also took a moment to thank her fans for their unwavering support. From messages offering tips on everything from shampoo to heartfelt encouragement, she expressed gratitude for the thousands of messages she has received. “Obviously, I’m a bit nervous,” she said. “But you’ve been great. Thank you for all your messages.”
For decades, Beverley has been a beloved figure on British television, starring not only in Coronation Street but also in Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps alongside Sheridan Smith and Will Mellor. Her openness about her health struggles has resonated with many, showing strength, resilience, and vulnerability in equal measure.
As she prepares to begin radiotherapy, Beverley Callard’s journey serves as a reminder of the courage it takes to face health challenges head-on, even for someone who has spent a lifetime in the public eye. Fans will undoubtedly continue to follow her progress, inspired by her honesty, her determination, and her unshakable spirit.
