Who is Coronation Street star Julie Goodyear and what illness does she have?
FANS of Coronation Street know and love Julie Goodyear, thanks to her role as Bet Lynch.
Sadly in June 2023, it was revealed that she had been given a heartbreaking health diagnosis.
Who is Julie Goodyear?
Julie Goodyear is an actress best known for playing no-nonsense landlady Bet Lynch on Coronation Street from 1970.
While she quit the cobbles in 1995 – winning the NTA’s Lifetime Achievement Award – she has made cameo appearances since, much to the delight of fans.
In 2002 Julie made a high-profile comeback but lasted just two weeks before quitting.
At the time she said the pace of the show was too much for her.
The actress was last spotted on set in 2003 for a storyline in Blackpool, as she helped track down Jim McDonald following his escape from prison.
And while she has been occasionally mentioned since, that marked her final appearance on Coronation Street.
In 1996 she was made an MBE in the New Year Honours.
How old is she?
The actress was born Julie Kemp on March 29, 1942 in Bury, Lancashire, to George and Alice Kemp.
After her parents divorced she took her stepdad William Goodyear’s surname.
Julie was brought up by her grandmother.
What is her illness?
On June 7, 2023 it was revealed that Julie had been diagnosed with dementia.
Her husband Scott said in a statement: “My darling wife and I have had to come to terms with this heart-breaking diagnosis.
“Unfortunately, Julie has been suffering forgetfulness for some time and we have been seeking medical advice and assistance, but we now know that there is no hope of a reversal in the situation – and that her condition will get progressively, and perhaps speedily, worse.
“We have taken the decision to publicly announce the diagnosis as Julie still loves visiting friends and eating out.
“Inevitably she is recognised, and fans love to meet her – and she them – but she can get confused particularly if she is tired.
“I hope people will understand.”
Is Julie Goodyear married and does she have any children?
Julie has been married to her fourth husband Scott Brand, who is 26 years her junior, since 2007 after eleven years of dating.
Her first marriage at the age of 17 was a shotgun wedding when she was two months pregnant with her son Gary.
Julie’s second husband, Tony Rudman, left her on their wedding day.
Her third marriage in 1985 was after a long-distance relationship with American Richard Skrob.
What TV shows has Julie Goodyear starred in?
After quitting Corrie, Julie went on to roles in Hollyoaks, Revolver and Tug of War.
The actress also hit the headlines in 2012 when she joined Celebrity Big Brother alongside Julian Clary and Martin Kemp.
She was last to be evicted shortly before the final, coming in seventh place.