Introduction:
Julie Goodyear, born on March 29, 1942, is a British television actress best known for her portrayal of Bet Lynch in the long-running soap opera, Coronation Street. Julie’s acting career spans more than three decades and she is celebrated as an icon of British television. In this blog post, we will delve into the life and career of Julie Goodyear and see how she went from Corrie to Icon.
Early Life:
Julie Goodyear was born in Bury, Lancashire, UK. Her childhood was far from perfect as her parents separated when she was just two years old. Her mother remarried four times and her stepfathers were often violent. Julie left school at the age of 15 and worked in various jobs, including as a shorthand typist, hairdresser, and a shop assistant.
Early Career:
Julie’s acting career began in the 1960s, where she played minor roles in shows such as The Dustbinmen and Z Cars. In 1966, she landed her first big break when she was cast as Bet Lynch in Coronation Street. Her role quickly became popular, and she became one of the most iconic characters in British television history.
Coronation Street:
Julie Goodyear played the role of Bet Lynch for more than 25 years, starting in 1966. Her character was known for her brassy, larger-than-life personality and distinctive fashion sense, which included tight-fitting leopard print outfits. She was involved in several storylines during her time on the show, including affairs, marriages, and family feuds.
Leaving Coronation Street:
In 1995, Julie Goodyear left Coronation Street to pursue other projects. Her exit was highly publicized, and it was reported that she was leaving due to her struggle with depression. However, she later revealed that she left the show because she was unhappy with how her character was being written.
Post-Coronation Street:
After leaving Coronation Street, Julie Goodyear continued to act in various TV shows and films. Some of her notable roles include Maureen in the hit sitcom, The Nanny, and Trish in the drama series, Hollyoaks. She also appeared in several reality shows, including Celebrity Big Brother and Dancing on Ice.
Personal Life:
Julie Goodyear has been married four times and has a son named Gary. She has been open about her struggles with depression and alcoholism, which she battled during her time on Coronation Street. In 2004, she underwent treatment for breast cancer, which she overcame.
Legacy:
Julie Goodyear is an icon of British television and has left an indelible mark on the industry. Her portrayal of Bet Lynch in Coronation Street is still remembered fondly by fans after more than 25 years. She has won multiple awards for her acting, including the Lifetime Achievement Award at the British Soap Awards in 2014.
Conclusion:
Julie Goodyear has had a long and illustrious career in British television, becoming an icon in her own right. Despite her difficult upbringing and personal struggles, she has persevered and left a lasting legacy in the industry. We will always remember her as Bet Lynch, the brassy, leopard-print-wearing barmaid from Coronation Street.
FAQs:
Q. What is Julie Goodyear known for?
Julie Goodyear is best known for her portrayal of Bet Lynch in the long-running soap opera, Coronation Street.
Q. How long was Julie Goodyear on Coronation Street?
Julie Goodyear played the role of Bet Lynch in Coronation Street for more than 25 years, starting in 1966.
Q. Why did Julie Goodyear leave Coronation Street?
Julie Goodyear left Coronation Street in 1995 because she was unhappy with how her character was being written.
Q. Has Julie Goodyear won any awards?
Yes, Julie Goodyear has won multiple awards for her acting, including the Lifetime Achievement Award at the British Soap Awards in 2014.
Q. Has Julie Goodyear ever battled cancer?
Yes, Julie Goodyear underwent treatment for breast cancer in 2004, which she overcame.
Q. What other TV shows has Julie Goodyear appeared in?
Julie Goodyear has appeared in various TV shows, including The Nanny, Hollyoaks, Celebrity Big Brother, and Dancing on Ice.
Q. Does Julie Goodyear have any children?
Yes, Julie Goodyear has a son named Gary.
Call-to-Action:
Do you have any favorite memories of Julie Goodyear’s portrayal of Bet Lynch? Share with us in the comments below!