Gemma Whelan Opens Up About Mother's Drowning Death
Game of Thrones star Gemma Whelan has revealed that her mother tragically drowned abroad last year. The 45-year-old actress, best known for playing Yara Greyjoy in the HBO series and Kate in Upstart Crow, shared the heartbreaking news in a lengthy Instagram post on Monday, July 6, marking one year since the loss.
Heartbreaking Instagram Tribute
Whelan posted a photo of a lake in her mother's native Canada, where half of her ashes have been scattered. She explained that the other half will be scattered with her father in a river in the Lake District. In the caption, she wrote: "It has been a year since we had the catastrophic shock that our brilliant bright mum had drowned abroad. There's such a big hole in me now, but most people wouldn't know."
She continued: "I suppose I'm looking to say that if you're in a similar position of sudden loss and reeling from shock, as I continue to, you're not alone. What terrible things we can endure, and be ok in the not ok."
Grief and Support
The actress acknowledged the profound solitude of a sudden, tragic death, adding: "I don't think this too shall ever pass but I have excellent friends and family and support and I forge forward with positivity and hope that the hole fills a little year on year with good memories of her and new memories with my kids."
She noted that she still goes to call her mother and takes photos thinking she would love them, then remembers she is gone. "It's bl***y awful. However, I am also happy and fulfilled and smiling for real most of the time. It just catches me out," she wrote.
Whelan also shared a lighthearted note about scattering ashes: "The rest will go with my dad in a river in the Lake District when no one is looking as apparently it's illegal to scatter willy nilly, but she'd love it if we got caught, forever the rebel."
Outpouring of Love from Fellow Actors
The post was met with an outpouring of support from fellow actors. Suranna Jones commented: "Sending love to you Gemma. I recognise the pain. I'm so sorry." Sophie Rundle wrote: "Oh love. Big, big enormous love to you." Lydia Leonard added: "I'm so sorry."
Whelan had previously shared news of her mother's passing in March, marking her first Mother's Day without her, but did not disclose the circumstances at that time. The actress continues to receive messages of condolence and support from fans and colleagues alike.
