Gemma Bissix, the actress known for roles in EastEnders and Hollyoaks, has spoken candidly about her struggles with self-doubt during her early career. The 42-year-old, who joined EastEnders at age nine as Clare Bates in 1993, admitted she often questioned her own abilities despite working alongside legendary figures such as the late Dame Barbara Windsor and Steve McFadden.
Reflecting on her younger years, Bissix said she was her own harshest critic. 'When I was younger, I used to question myself a lot. I used to think, was I any good? We all have self-doubt, even now I still have my own little self-doubt,' she explained. She added that she wishes she could tell her younger self to believe more in her talents and enjoy life more fully.
Bissix credited EastEnders as a vital training ground, particularly highlighting the mentorship she received. 'Barbara Windsor took me under her wing and taught me what to do. Steve McFadden taught me how to learn my lines,' she recalled. She also noted that bumping into former co-star Letitia Dean recently brought back fond memories of her childhood on set.
In 2006, Bissix took on the role of Hollyoaks villain Clare Devine, which she has reprised multiple times, most recently in explosive scenes where her character was pushed off a cliff. She also made a brief return to EastEnders in March 2024, over 30 years after her debut. Juggling both soaps alongside motherhood to daughters Juliette, 10, and Vienna, 9, Bissix said her children remain unimpressed by her fame, treating her simply as 'mum'.
After a hectic filming schedule, Bissix has had to give up her usual relaxation method of enjoying a pint of beer, opting instead for reality TV shows like Love Island and Married at First Sight to unwind. The actress, a Chelsea fan, emphasised the importance of living in the present and believing in oneself.
