Former Emmerdale star Gemma Oaten has publicly announced the end of her relationship in a strikingly candid Instagram video, declaring herself "single but happy" while opening up about the emotional realities of partnership.
Emotional Instagram Announcement
The actress, best known for playing Rachel Breckle in the long-running ITV soap between 2011 and 2015, filmed herself from her sofa wearing a pink sweatshirt as she delivered what she humorously termed "breaking news" to her followers. In the heartfelt post, the 41-year-old performer revealed she had chosen to end her relationship, though she has never publicly disclosed her partner's identity.
Addressing Loneliness and Mental Wellbeing
Oaten spoke with remarkable honesty about the complex emotions surrounding her decision. "There's a specific kind of heaviness that comes with feeling lonely in a relationship," she explained. "It's a weight you don't have to carry anymore." The actress emphasised that despite the relationship ending, her heart remains open, acknowledging that her openness sometimes leads to hurt but refusing to let that close her off to future possibilities.
She made a particular point about normalising conversations around relationship status, stating: "I really want to try and normalise the conversation that you don't have to be in a relationship." Oaten connected this directly to mental health considerations, adding that "being solo is actually the best route for you and your mental health right now" for some individuals.
From 'Waiting Room' to 'Destination'
The actress concluded her emotional announcement with a powerful metaphor about single life. "It's not a waiting room; it's a destination," she declared. "I'm doing more than okay; I'm thriving." This statement reflects a positive outlook on her newly-single status, framing it as an active choice rather than a transitional phase.
Previous High-Profile Relationships
Oaten's romantic history has occasionally mirrored the dramatic storylines of her Emmerdale character. Most notably, she enjoyed a highly-publicised relationship with DIY SOS presenter Nick Knowles in 2016. The pair first connected at the TV Choice Awards before enjoying what was described as a "highland fling" in Edinburgh, though the romance proved short-lived.
Prior to that, she dated Andy Barnes in 2014 before entering a relationship with Scott Walker that lasted just over a year. In recent years, Oaten has chosen to keep her partners' identities private, maintaining discretion about her personal life until this recent revelation.
Career Beyond Emmerdale
Since leaving the Yorkshire-based soap opera, Oaten has maintained an active career across multiple entertainment mediums. Her television appearances have included roles in Holby City and Coronation Street, while she has also featured in films such as Rise of the Footsoldier: The Pat Tate Story.
The actress has also maintained a strong presence in theatre, performing in productions including Bedroom Farce and Up 'n' Under at venues across the United Kingdom. Her portrayal of Rachel Breckle in Emmerdale earned her a nomination for Best Newcomer at the British Soap Awards, establishing her as a recognised talent in British television.
Oaten's decision to share her relationship status so openly continues her pattern of public candour, offering fans an authentic glimpse into her personal journey while encouraging broader conversations about relationship expectations and emotional wellbeing.
