Coronation Street star Beverly Callard took to social media to issue an awaited health update just hours after revealing she was diagnosed with breast cancer during an emotional appearance on Patrick Kielty's RTÉ's The Late Late Show. The beloved actress shared that medics appeared to have caught the cancer early and that she will have to undergo an operation and radiotherapy, and will return to the UK this weekend to have more tests. The 68-year-old, best known for playing Liz McDonald for over three decades, received the devastating news just 20 minutes before she was set to film her first scenes for the Irish soap Fair City.

Callard was instantly inundated with well-wishes from Corrie viewers and her co-stars. In a fresh update, the TV star said she's remaining "positive" as she battles the disease. In the post, simply captioned: "Just an update," she shared: "Thank you, thank you for all your messages, you are truly amazing." Seated on a hospital bed, Callard continued: "I am at the hospital now, about to test the lymph nodes and lymph glands, I'm feeling fine, I'm really positive."

The clip then cuts to Beverly, comfortably at home, with her adorable dog by her side. She shared: "I'm back from the hospital, and it all seemed to go well. They tested lymph nodes and things, so I should know by Wednesday of next week about that. I have another appointment then, and then two days later, on the 20th, I have the operation."

Despite this, the actress said: "I'm feeling really positive, but I also must say, there were dozens of ladies in there just the same as me, and they were all positive as well and upbeat, so we're getting there and sticking together."

Pointing at her dog, who had now rested his head on her legs, Beverly added: "Look at this, I'm sure Arthur knows," as she stroked his black fur. "I'm sure he knows, they do say that, don't they, but everything's really good so far."

** Ensure our latest showbiz headlines always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as Preferred Source in your Google search settings. ****

Beverly's comments were filled with more well-wishes from fans, as one penned: "Sending the very best to you. Please don't feel societal pressure to be 'positive'. It's human to feel all kinds of emotions. Never deny your personal reality."

To which, the actress responded: "So true," alongside a red heart emoji. Another fan added: "You're looking great, Beverley. Stay positive. Arthur is beautiful, and it looks like he desperately wants to support you."

A third commented: "You're so strong and brave for sharing this journey. It will absolutely help people who are struggling, and that's an amazing gift to give people, Beverley. Much love and huge respect."

"You can do it. Good, you are sharing, as when we get told this, we don't know what's ahead, but you will be helping many ladies," posted another.