Sherrie Hewson: Inspiring Life, Age, Family, Acting Career and Television Success
From Coronation Street and Benidorm to Loose Women, discover the remarkable journey of one of Britain's most recognizable television personalities.
Sherrie Hewson is a celebrated English actress, television presenter, and author whose entertainment career has lasted more than five decades. Born on September 17, 1950, she became widely recognized for her memorable performances in Coronation Street, Benidorm, and Emmerdale. Her natural comedic timing, expressive acting, and engaging television personality have helped her build a lasting connection with British audiences. Beyond acting, she has enjoyed success as a daytime television panelist and published author. Her professional journey reflects dedication, adaptability, and a willingness to explore new opportunities across television, theatre, and literature.
This article explores Sherrie Hewson’s early life, education, popular television roles, family relationships, published books, and continuing contribution to British entertainment.
Quick Bio
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sherrie Lynn Hutchinson |
| Professional Name | Sherrie Hewson |
| Date of Birth | 17 September 1950 |
| Age | 76 years (as of November 2026) |
| Birthplace | Nottinghamshire, England |
| Nationality | British |
| Profession | Actress, Presenter, Author |
| Education | Royal Academy of Dramatic Art |
| Known For | Coronation Street, Benidorm, Loose Women |
| Former Husbands | Hector Blamey, Ken Boyd |
| Children | One daughter, Keeley |
| Notable Books | The Tannery, Behind the Laughter, Nana’s Kitchen |
A Childhood Surrounded by Entertainment
Sherrie Hewson grew up in Nottinghamshire in a family with strong connections to show business. Her father was a singer, while her mother worked as a model. This creative environment introduced her to performance early and encouraged her growing interest in entertainment.
As a child, she took part in theatrical productions and built confidence performing before audiences. She began appearing in stage shows at a young age, gaining experience that would later support her professional ambitions.
Training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art
An important milestone came when Hewson received a scholarship to attend the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London.
Her formal acting education strengthened her performance skills and provided a foundation for work across dramatic and comedic genres.
The combination of professional training and early stage experience prepared her for the demanding world of British television.
How Sherrie Hewson Established Her Acting Career
Hewson began developing her screen career during the early 1970s, appearing in television productions including Z Cars, The Moonstone, and Within These Walls.
Her career expanded when she appeared in the British comedy film Carry On Behind (1975). She subsequently appeared in Carry On Laughing, demonstrating her ability to perform alongside established comedy entertainers.
Other film credits include The Slipper and the Rose (1976) and Hanover Street (1979).
These productions helped establish her professional reputation before she became a familiar face on Britain’s most popular television programs.
Sherrie Hewson’s Breakthrough in Coronation Street
A defining moment in Hewson’s career came in 1993, when she joined Coronation Street as Maureen Naylor, later known as Maureen Holdsworth.
The character became memorable for her complicated relationships, emotional situations, and often humorous experiences.
Hewson portrayed Maureen from 1993 until 1997 and returned briefly in 2006.
Why Her Character Became Popular
Maureen combined vulnerability with comedy, allowing Hewson to demonstrate different aspects of her acting ability.
Her expressive performances and ability to make everyday situations entertaining helped make the character a memorable part of the soap’s history.
The role significantly increased her public recognition and strengthened her position within British television.
Expanding Her Success Through Other Television Dramas
Following her success in Coronation Street, Hewson continued appearing in established television productions.
She portrayed Virginia Raven in Crossroads from 2001 to 2003 and Lesley Meredith in Emmerdale between 2004 and 2006.
Her other notable sitcom appearances included In Loving Memory and Barbara.
These varied roles demonstrated her versatility, allowing her to move between traditional soap storytelling, light-hearted comedy, and character-driven drama.
Benidorm and the Unforgettable Joyce Temple-Savage
In 2012, Hewson joined the ITV comedy series Benidorm, portraying Joyce Temple-Savage, the manager of the fictional Solana Hotel.
The character’s ambitious personality, complicated management decisions, and comedic encounters became central features of the program.
Hewson continued portraying Joyce until the series concluded in 2018.
For many younger viewers, her performance in Benidorm introduced them to an actress whose career had already included decades of successful television work.
Becoming a Familiar Face on Loose Women
Alongside acting, Sherrie Hewson developed a successful presenting career through ITV’s daytime discussion program Loose Women.
During her years on the panel, she became known for her humorous observations, emotional honesty, and willingness to discuss personal experiences.
Her television appearances allowed audiences to see her personality beyond fictional characters.
Unlike scripted acting, daytime discussion programs require spontaneous communication and the confidence to respond naturally to unexpected conversations.
Hewson’s warmth and entertaining presence made her a recognizable figure in British daytime television throughout the 2000s and 2010s.
Later Television Appearances and Hollyoaks
Hewson continued attracting television audiences through appearances in entertainment and reality programs.
In 2015, she participated in Celebrity Big Brother, finishing in sixth place.
Her acting career also continued into the 2020s.
A New Role in Hollyoaks
In 2024, Hewson joined Hollyoaks as Martha Blake, becoming involved in storylines surrounding the complicated Blake family.
Her appearances continued into 2025, demonstrating her ability to take on new dramatic roles decades after her earliest television performances.
Returning to Character-Based Drama
Her performance as Martha Blake highlighted a different side of her acting range from the broad comedy associated with Benidorm.
It also showed how an experienced performer can stay relevant to audiences across generations.
Sherrie Hewson’s Marriage, Daughter and Family Life
Hewson has experienced significant changes in her personal life alongside her professional achievements.
She married Hector Blamey in 1972, but they divorced in 1974.
She subsequently married Ken Boyd in 1983. Their daughter, Keeley, was born in 1984.
Although Hewson and Boyd separated earlier, their divorce was finalized in 2011.
Hewson has spoken publicly about the emotional challenges surrounding her marriage and separation.
Her Relationship With Her Daughter
Family has remained an important part of Hewson’s life. She has often discussed her close relationship with Keeley and the happiness she feels as a grandmother.
Despite the public nature of her television career, much of her family’s everyday life remains outside the entertainment spotlight.
Sherrie Hewson as an Author
Alongside acting and presenting, Hewson has established herself as a published writer.
Her books include:
- The Tannery (2009): A work of fiction published as part of the Quick Reads initiative.
- Behind the Laughter (2011): An autobiography discussing her professional achievements and personal experiences.
- Nana’s Kitchen (2014): A family-focused cookbook inspired by her enthusiasm for cooking and family life.
Her autobiography provided readers with a more personal perspective on the experiences behind her public television image.
Writing has given Hewson another way to communicate with audiences beyond her on-screen performances.
What Makes Her Entertainment Career Distinctive?
One of Hewson’s greatest professional strengths is her ability to move comfortably between different entertainment formats.
She has performed in feature films, soap operas, sitcoms, theatrical productions, and unscripted television programs.
Her most recognizable characters also reflect different performance styles. Maureen Holdsworth provided emotional storytelling mixed with humor, while Joyce Temple-Savage relied heavily on comedic delivery and personality.
Her continued work reflects professional adaptability and decades of experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sherrie Hewson
1. How old is Sherrie Hewson?
Sherrie Hewson was born on September 17, 1950. As of November 2026, she is 76.
2. What is Sherrie Hewson best known for?
She is best known for playing Maureen Holdsworth in Coronation Street and Joyce Temple-Savage in Benidorm. She is also widely recognized for her appearances on ITV’s Loose Women.
3. Was Sherrie Hewson married?
Yes. She was previously married to Hector Blamey and Ken Boyd. Both marriages ended in divorce, with her divorce from Ken Boyd finalized in 2011.
4. Does Sherrie Hewson have children?
Yes. She has one daughter, Keeley, born in 1984. Hewson is also a grandmother and has spoken publicly about her family’s importance.
5. What books has Sherrie Hewson written?
Her published books include The Tannery, Behind the Laughter, and Nana’s Kitchen. They cover fiction, autobiography, and family cooking.
Conclusion: Sherrie Hewson’s Lasting Place in British Television
Sherrie Hewson has built an impressive entertainment career through consistent work, memorable characters, and a distinctive television personality. From her early theatrical training to her performances in Coronation Street, Benidorm, and Hollyoaks, she has demonstrated considerable versatility.
Her achievements as a presenter and author have further expanded her professional identity beyond acting. With more than five decades of experience, she remains a familiar name in British popular culture and an example of how talent, adaptability, and determination can support a lasting career.
