Beverley callard returns to the jungle amidst cancer battle
Beverley Callard, the beloved star of Coronation Street, is back in the jungle for I’m A Celebrity…South Africa, but her return is overshadowed by a recent and deeply personal battle – a breast cancer diagnosis. The veteran actress, known for her iconic portrayal of Liz McDonald for over three decades, is now facing both the challenges of the show and the complexities of her health journey, offering a raw and honest glimpse into her life for viewers.
A soap legend's journey
Callard’s career has been synonymous with British television. Her 30-year run as Liz McDonald on Coronation Street cemented her status as a national treasure, captivating audiences with her wit and vulnerability. Beyond the cobbled streets of Weatherfield, she’s also appeared in shows like Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps and, more recently, the Irish soap Fair City (since February 2026). Her previous appearance on I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!, filmed during the pandemic in Wales, was a joyous experience she fondly recalls, noting her enjoyment of “the daily tasks, the clothes we wore, not having my phone and not wearing any make-up.”
Facing the trials, both physical and emotional
But this time, the stakes are higher. Just months before embarking on this South African adventure, Callard revealed she was diagnosed with breast cancer in February. The timing is particularly poignant, as the show was actually filmed some time ago, predating her diagnosis. She's been open about her experiences on Instagram, clarifying that her trip to South Africa wasn’t a sudden decision and that she’s been managing her treatment while filming.
The surgery to remove two lymph nodes, a preventative measure, left her with “quite a lot of soreness,” as she admitted on social media. She awaits the results of the surgery with a quiet optimism, stating, “If I'm cancer-free, then, a few weeks after that, I will begin radiotherapy. If I'm not cancer-free, then we'll cross that bridge when we get to it.” Her husband, Jon McEwan, a drummer and recording studio owner whom she affectionately calls her “megashag” husband, has been an unwavering source of support.
A husband's devotion and a community's support
Their romance, which began in Spain over fifteen years ago – Callard famously admitting she wasn't initially impressed by his shaved head and gold tooth – has blossomed into a profound partnership. McEwan's current efforts to repaint their bedroom, preparing it for radiotherapy if needed, exemplify the depth of his commitment. Callard's words, shared on Instagram, resonated deeply: “Jon’s painting the bedroom…and I just thought, 'Oh, I could not go through this by myself.' I really feel for anyone who is going through it by themselves.” Her vulnerability and honesty have fostered a wave of support from fans and fellow celebrities alike.
I’m A Celebrity…South Africa airs on ITV1 at 9pm, promising a compelling blend of jungle challenges and a deeply personal story of resilience. While the Bushtucker trials will undoubtedly test her strength, it’s Callard’s unwavering spirit, and the love surrounding her, that truly captivates.