First in the house. It's Julie Goodyear.

15 Aug, 2012 - 9:04 PM by TiBB Staff Writer

Julie Goodyear is a soap opera legend most famous for her character, Bet Lynch in the world’s longest running soap, Coronation Street.

In 1995, after winning the ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ for her role as Bet Lynch in the first ever National Television Awards, Julie quit the soap.

Julie was awarded the M.B.E. (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in 1996 ‘For services to Television Drama.’

In 1979 during a routine check up Julie discovered she had cervical cancer, she had two major operations. In typical fighting spirit, she fought her illness and made a full recovery. The Julie Goodyear Laboratory, which her charity supports now, operates at The Christie Hospital, Manchester.

Julie openly discussed her relationship with men and women in her autobiography ‘Just Julie,’ in November 2006. Her sexuality became news, after experiencing many kiss and tell stories from her partners. Julie freely admits she makes very wrong decisions sometimes and trusts the wrong people.

After a couple of her failed relationships, Julie has actually employed her ex partners. After the relationship ended with Vicky Claffey, Vicky became her PA and Janet Ross is now her housekeeper.

In 2007 Julie then aged 65, married long time boyfriend and ex-stalker Scott Brand, 39, in an intimate ceremony. She met Scott when he used to sit in a tree outside her house watching her. She slowly grew fond of him over time and realised he want to protect her and genuinely loved her.

Their wedding reception was attended by the Duchess of York, Charlotte Church, Clive Owen and members of Duran Duran.

Most recently in May 2012, Julie starred in the Coronation Street musical, ‘Street Of Dreams’ a musical interpretation of the famous soap, playing homage to its most well loved characters from the past. It boasted camp costumes, upbeat and original show tunes.