CORONATION Street legend Julie Goodyear is suffering from dementia, her husband has revealed.
The actress, 81 – who is best known for playing Bet Lynch in the ITV soap – has been recently diagnosed.
Coronation Street icon Julie Goodyear has dementia
Julie’s husband has opened up about her diagnosis
Julie and husband Scott in 2003
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.”
Julie remains a patron of Willow Wood Hospice in Greater Manchester.
Julie first joined the Coronation Street in 1966 as iconic character Bet, returning in 1970 ahead of her lengthy stint on the show.
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.
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.
