Beverley Callard's I'm A Celeb Return Amid Cancer Battle and Corrie Exit
Coronation Street icon Beverley Callard is set to appear on I'm A Celebrity... South Africa, marking her second stint on the reality show. The 69-year-old actress, renowned for playing Liz McDonald on the ITV soap, previously competed in 2020 when the series was filmed in a Welsh castle due to Covid-19 restrictions, placing tenth. This time, she joins an All Stars lineup in South Africa, with filming having concluded last September, months before she publicly revealed her breast cancer diagnosis in early 2026.
Second Jungle Adventure and Confidence Boost
Beverley expressed excitement about swapping Wales' cold for South Africa's warmth, hoping for a more immersive experience in the All Stars spin-off. Reflecting on her 2020 appearance, she credited the show with boosting her self-confidence, noting that positive feedback from viewers and camaraderie with fellow contestants helped combat her low self-esteem. She described the Covid-era series as a "feel-good show" that lifted spirits during a difficult time, and she remains in touch with castmates through a WhatsApp group and regular dinners.
When invited back, Beverley was "gobsmacked" and accepted immediately, eager to embrace the new location. The special series, hosted by Ant and Dec, features notable names like Craig Charles, Mo Farah, Gemma Collins, Harry Redknapp, and Scarlett Moffatt, promising extreme trials and epic challenges.
Coronation Street Departure and Script Concerns
Beverley gained a loyal fanbase over 30 years as barmaid Liz McDonald, but she announced her exit in 2019. Her character's departure was handled off-screen, with son Steve mentioning her move to Spain. Beverley cited multiple reasons for leaving, including fears of being killed off in the 60th-anniversary special and declining script quality. In interviews, she diplomatically expressed that the writing had become less exciting, with repetitive plots and reduced focus on older characters, leading to boredom on set.
She also revealed past struggles, claiming she was excluded from a special episode due to mental health issues. Beverley had taken breaks from Corrie in 2010 for mental health and to pursue other acting roles, highlighting the challenges she faced in her long-running career.
Health Battles and Breast Cancer Diagnosis
In a tough start to 2026, Beverley shared her breast cancer diagnosis, undergoing surgery just over a month ago. She clarified that her I'm A Celeb appearance was pre-recorded before the diagnosis. On social media, she has been open about her journey, explaining that she awaits results to determine if she is cancer-free, with potential radiotherapy ahead. Recently, she tearfully disclosed a delay in receiving results due to a hospital backlog, expressing emotional strain while maintaining hope.
Beyond cancer, Beverley has faced other health issues, including a hip injury that nearly left her unable to walk. She has been vocal about mental health struggles, revealing past suicidal thoughts and crediting support systems for her recovery.
Personal Life and Supportive Marriage
Beverley's husband, Jon McEwan, whom she married in 2010, has been her "rock" through health battles. She credits him with saving her life during dark periods, including bankruptcy and clinical depression. Their relationship began on a blind date in Spain, where initial skepticism turned into a deep connection. They married in a fairytale wedding with 22 bridesmaids and have faced hardships together, with Jon proposing again in 2017 during an emotional moment.
Beverley describes Jon as her best friend and the love of her life, sharing simple joys like morning tea and silly dances. Her previous marriages include Paul Atkinson, David Sowden, and Steve Callard, with whom she has children Rebecca and Josh.
I'm A Celeb All Stars airs nightly on ITV1 and ITVX, culminating in a live final on April 24, 2026. Beverley's journey underscores resilience amid personal and professional challenges.
