Cheryl Tweedy’s Brother Andrew Facing Homelessness Amid Battle with Addiction
Recent reports have highlighted the ongoing struggles of Andrew Tweedy, the older brother of Girls Aloud singer Cheryl, who has been seen living in a tent and begging for food and coffee outside a supermarket in Jarrow, South Tyneside. This development follows a long history of addiction and family instability that has plagued the siblings for years.
Legal Troubles and Recent Struggles
Andrew was recently in court for being drunk and disorderly outside a Morrisons supermarket. According to reports from the Mirror, police were called to the scene after Andrew began shouting and swearing at customers. During the encounter, he reportedly told officers to “F*** off” and questioned what they were going to do.
While Andrew informed South Tyneside JPs that he was receiving hospital treatment for alcohol abuse and had moved back into the family home in Heaton, Newcastle, he returned to living in a tent within weeks. He admitted to having slept outside the store “for a long time.” As a result of his behavior, he received a six-month conditional discharge and was ordered to pay £113.
Cheryl’s Efforts to Provide Support
Cheryl has reportedly made numerous attempts to help her brother overcome his addiction. These efforts include paying for a rehabilitation stint estimated to cost £20,000. In her 2012 autobiography, the singer opened up about the difficulties of her upbringing and Andrew’s history of being in and out of prison while battling addiction.

Key Takeaways: Andrew Tweedy’s Current Situation
- Current Status: Reported to be living in a tent and begging outside a supermarket in Jarrow.
- Legal Outcome: Received a six-month conditional discharge and a £113 fine for drunk and disorderly conduct.
- Family Support: Cheryl reportedly funded a £20,000 rehab stint in an attempt to help him get clean.
A Family Divided by Secrets
The instability in Andrew’s life is linked to a “tragic secret” that impacted the entire family. According to Cheryl’s 2012 autobiography, the family dynamic shifted drastically when Andrew was 14 years old. He returned home in a rage after learning the truth about his biological father.
Cheryl recalled the chaotic atmosphere of that moment, describing how Andrew screamed at their mother, Joan Callaghan, asking, “Is dad my real dad?” after being told in the street that Garry Tweedy was not his biological father.
Family Background
Cheryl grew up on a Newcastle council estate with her mother, Joan Callaghan, her father, Garry Tweedy, and four siblings: Andrew, Garry, Gillian, and Joe. While Cheryl achieved global stardom with Girls Aloud, the lives of her siblings have remained far removed from the celebrity lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Andrew Tweedy?
Andrew Tweedy is the older brother of singer Cheryl. He has struggled with alcohol addiction and homelessness for several years.
Where was Andrew recently seen?
He was reported to be living in a tent and begging outside a Morrisons supermarket in Jarrow, South Tyneside.
What was the “secret” that affected the family?
The secret involved the revelation that Garry Tweedy was not Andrew’s biological father, a discovery that caused significant turmoil within the family when Andrew was a teenager.