Former Coronation Street star Beverley Callard has spoken out about continuing to work after being diagnosed with breast cancer. The 68-year-old, best known for playing Liz McDonald on the ITV soap for over 30 years, revealed she received the diagnosis shortly after starting a role on Irish soap Fair City.
Callard appeared on Ireland's Late Late Show on Friday, where she told host Patrick Kielty that doctors had informed her she would need surgery and radiation treatment. She expressed disappointment at having to return to the UK for treatment so soon after beginning work in Ireland.
In a subsequent interview with the Irish Mail on Sunday, Callard said she felt 'strong' and 'full of optimism', despite being 'a little bit scared'. She added: 'I’m glad I’ve said it out publicly so it’s just out there for other thousands of women who are also going through it.'
The actress emphasised her determination to return to Fair City, praising the cast and crew as 'amazing' and saying she 'loves the treadmill of being in studio'. She was cast as character Lily in the Irish soap earlier this year.
According to Cancer Research UK, over 55,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer annually in the UK, with 76.6% surviving for 10 or more years after diagnosis. Callard's diagnosis was caught early, she confirmed.
Fans and viewers have flooded social media with messages of support, with one writing: 'Incredible woman. We’re all rooting for you.' Another called her 'so incredibly brave and uplifting'.
