Sherrie Hewson: Life, Career, TV Roles, Books, and Legacy of a British Entertainment Icon
Sherrie Hewson is one of the most recognizable faces in British television. With a career spanning more than five decades, sherrie hewson charismatic television personality, author, and reality-TV star. Best known for her roles in Coronation Street, Emmerdale, Crossroads, and Benidorm, Hewson has also left a strong mark on daytime television as a long-standing panelist on Loose Women. From gritty soap-opera drama to sharp comedy and candid talk-show discussions, Sherrie Hewson’s career reflects both longevity and adaptability. This article explores her early life, acting career, television work, books, personal journey, and lasting influence on British popular culture.
Early Life and Education
Sherrie Hewson was born Sherrie Lynn Hutchinson on 17 September 1950 in Beeston, Nottinghamshire, England. Growing up in the East Midlands, she showed an early interest in performing arts and entertainment.
Her passion for acting lead her to enroll at the esteemed Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London, one of the most respected drama schools in the world. RADA has trained generations of acclaimed performers, and Hewson’s time there provided her with strong technical foundations in stage and screen acting.
This formal training would later help her navigate a wide range of roles, from emotionally intense soap-opera storylines to lighthearted sitcom performances.
Early Career and Breakthrough
Sherrie Hewson began working professionally in the early 1970s, initially appearing in small television roles and in stage productions. Like many British actors of her generation, she built her career gradually through repertory theatre and guest appearances in TV dramas.
Her breakthrough came when she began appearing in major British soap operas—an arena where long-term character development allows actors to become household names.
Sherrie Hewson in Coronation Street
One of the defining chapters in Sherrie Hewson’s career was her role as Maureen Holdsworth in ITV’s legendary soap opera Coronation Street.
She first appeared in the show in 1993, portraying Maureen as a lively, warm-hearted, and sometimes vulnerable character. Her on-screen relationship with Reg Holdsworth became a major storyline, blending romance with emotional conflict and tragedy.
Hewson remained on Coronation Street until 1997 and later returned briefly in 2006, delighting long-time fans who remembered her earlier performance.
The role firmly established her as a recognizable and respected actress in British television.
Crossroads and Emmerdale
After leaving Coronation Street, Sherrie Hewson continued to dominate the soap opera world.
Crossroads (2001–2003)
She joined the revived version of Crossroads in 2001, playing Virginia Raven, a glamorous and confident businesswoman. Her character added drama and sophistication to the series, further reinforcing Hewson’s ability to command screen presence.
Emmerdale (2004–2006)
Soon after, she took on the role of Lesley Meredith in Emmerdale, another of Britain’s most popular soaps. This character was emotionally complex and involved in several dramatic storylines, including family conflict and personal tragedy.
By this point, Sherrie Hewson had become known as one of the most reliable and compelling performers in British serial drama.
Comedy Success with Benidorm
While soap operas defined much of her dramatic career, Sherrie Hewson later proved her comedic talent in the hit ITV sitcom Benidorm.
From 2012 to 2018, she portrayed Joyce Temple-Savage, the strict but hilariously eccentric manager of the Solana Resort.
Her character soon became a fan favorite due to:
- Her exaggerated authority
- Sharp one-liners
- Memorable costumes and mannerisms
- Perfect comic timing
Many fans of the show consider Joyce one of the most iconic characters in the series. The role introduced Hewson to a younger generation of viewers and solidified her reputation as a versatile performer equally comfortable in comedy and drama.
Loose Women and Television Presenting
Beyond acting, Sherrie Hewson became widely known as a television personality through her long association with ITV’s daytime talk show Loose Women.
She joined the panel in 2003 and remained a regular contributor for over a decade. On the show, she discussed topics including:
- Relationships and family life
- Health and aging
- Women’s rights and social issues
- Personal struggles and resilience
Her candidness and emotional honesty made her a relatable figure to millions of viewers.
Although she officially departed the show in the mid-2010s, her time on Loose Women remains one of the most significant chapters in her public life.
Celebrity Big Brother
In 2015, Sherrie Hewson participated in Celebrity Big Brother, offering audiences an unfiltered look at her personality.
During her time in the house, she was:
- Open about her past struggles
- Emotional about family and relationships
- Direct in conversations with other contestants
She ultimately finished sixth, earning respect from viewers for her authenticity and strength.
Writing Career and Books
Sherrie Hewson is also an accomplished author.
Crime Fiction
In 2008, she won the BBC Two writing competition Murder Most Famous, judged by renowned crime writer Minette Walters. This victory led to the publication of her crime novella:
- The Tannery (2009) – released as part of World Book Day’s “Quick Reads” series
The book showcased her talent beyond acting and introduced her as a credible voice in fiction writing.
Autobiography
In 2011, she published her autobiography:
- Sherrie: Behind the Laughter
The book details her life in the entertainment industry, personal hardships, relationships, and the resilience required to survive in a competitive profession.
Cookbook
In 2014, she released:
- Nana’s Kitchen
This cookbook reflects her love of family, comfort food, and traditional recipes, offering a warmer and more personal glimpse into her life off-screen.
Personal Life
Sherrie Hewson is the mother of one daughter, Keeley, who has largely stayed out of the public spotlight.
Throughout her life, Hewson has spoken openly about:
- Financial difficulties earlier in her career
- Relationship challenges
- Health issues and injuries
- The pressures of fame
Her willingness to discuss these topics publicly has contributed to her reputation as honest and emotionally grounded.
Later Career and Recent Work
Even in her seventies, Sherrie Hewson continues to work actively in television.
In 2024, she joined the cast of the Channel 4 soap Hollyoaks, playing Martha Blake, demonstrating once again her commitment to acting and her enduring appeal to producers and audiences alike.
She also continues to make guest appearances in interviews, documentaries, and entertainment programs.
Influence and Legacy
Sherrie Hewson’s career is notable not just for its length, but for its diversity.
She has succeeded in:
- Long-running soap operas
- Prime-time sitcoms
- Daytime talk shows
- Reality television
- Publishing and writing
Few British performers manage to remain relevant across so many different formats and decades.
Her influence can be seen in:
- The strong representation of mature women on British television
- Honest discussions of mental health and financial hardship
- The normalization of career reinvention at any age
Why Sherrie Hewson Remains Popular
Several qualities explain why Sherrie Hewson continues to attract public interest:
- Authenticity – She rarely presents a polished or artificial image.
- Emotional openness – She discusses struggles as readily as successes.
- Professional versatility – Drama, comedy, presenting, and writing.
- Longevity – Over 50 years in entertainment.
- Relatability – Viewers see her as “real,” not untouchable.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sherrie Hewson
How old is Sherrie Hewson?
She was born in September 1950, making her in her mid-70s.
What is Sherrie Hewson best known for?
She is best known for:
Coronation Street (Maureen Holdsworth)
Emmerdale (Lesley Meredith)
Benidorm (Joyce Temple-Savage)
Loose Women (panelist)
Is Sherrie Hewson still acting?
Yes. She continues to act and recently appeared in Hollyoaks.
Has Sherrie Hewson written any books?
Yes. She has written crime fiction, an autobiography, and a cookbook.
Conclusion
Sherrie Hewson stands as one of the most enduring and multifaceted figures in British entertainment. From her early days as a drama student at RADA to her iconic soap-opera performances, her unforgettable comedic turn in Benidorm, and her honest presence on Loose Women, she has consistently evolved with the industry.
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