In a dramatic career shift, beloved Coronation Street stalwart Beverley Callard is preparing to make an explosive return to the world of soap operas, but this time on the other side of the Irish Sea. The actress, famed for her decades-long portrayal of the fiery Liz McDonald, has been unveiled in her brand new role for the long-running Irish serial, Fair City.
A New Chapter in Carrigstown
Fresh promotional images offer the first glimpse of the 68-year-old actress fully immersed in her new character, Lily. In one striking shot, Beverley channels a tougher persona, clad in a black leather jacket. Another, more welcoming photo shows her posing cheerfully next to a 'Welcome to Carrigstown' sign, dressed in a cream ruffled jacket and a denim jumpsuit.
Her character is set to send shockwaves through the fictional Dublin suburb, as Lily is the long-lost mother of established Fair City resident Gwen, played by Emily Lamey. This casting promises to introduce compelling new family dynamics and secrets to the show's narrative.
From Weatherfield Legend to Rogue Move
Beverley Callard's association with Coronation Street is the stuff of British television legend. She first graced the cobbles of Weatherfield in 1989 as part of the McDonald clan, alongside on-screen husband Jim (Charles Lawson) and twin sons Steve and Andy (Simon Gregson and Nicholas Cochrane). Her tenure spanned over three decades, with periods on the show from 1989 to 1998, 2000-2001, 2003-2011, and finally from 2013 until her departure in 2020.
News of her signing for Fair City broke last month, with a source describing it as a "rogue move" given the soap is "hugely admired in Ireland" but less familiar to English audiences. However, the source confirmed Beverley's excitement, stating she "plans to make her mark" as a regular cast member.
Life After the Rovers Return
Since leaving the Rovers Return, Beverley has kept a high profile. In late 2020, she entered the historic castle edition of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!, forging a notable bond with fellow contestant Jordan North. Her jungle stint reportedly earned her £125,000.
Her television adventures are set to continue, with reports in September 2025 confirming she has signed up for the I'm A Celebrity All Stars series in South Africa. This second foray into the jungle comes after the actress was understood to be facing financial difficulties, including a £100,000 tax bill.
As Beverley Callard embarks on this exciting new chapter in Carrigstown, fans on both sides of the Irish Sea will be eagerly watching to see what drama Lily brings to Fair City, proving the iconic actress's enduring appeal and talent.
