Gemma Bissix Opens Up About Heartfelt EastEnders Comeback
EastEnders star Gemma Bissix has shared her feelings on returning to the BBC soap after an 18-year hiatus, reprising her role as Clare Bates in a deeply emotional storyline. The actress, who first appeared on the show in 1993 at just nine years old, described the experience as a full circle moment, highlighting the significance of her return to the series that launched her career.
Reuniting with Nigel Bates Amid Dementia Plot
Clare Bates is set to reappear in Walford next week, reuniting with her adoptive father Nigel Bates, played by Paul Bradley. Nigel's recent return to the show has been marked by a dementia diagnosis, leading to heartbreaking scenes as his health declines. With his wife Julie Bates and friend Phil Mitchell caring for him, the storyline progresses as they decide he requires care home support, prompting Julie to reach out to Clare, who has been estranged from her father.
Gemma Bissix expressed her privilege in being part of this poignant dementia narrative, noting that it resonates with many viewers. She revealed, It’s been an absolute pleasure to be back, and a privilege to be involved in Nigel’s poignant dementia storyline. I think it’s a storyline that sadly resonates with so many people.
Emotional Reconnections and Filming Moments
The actress confessed that reuniting with co-stars after so long was an emotional experience, particularly filming the scenes where Clare and Nigel are brought back together. She was thrilled to be invited back by Executive Producer Ben Wadey and teased upcoming developments in the plot.
Reflecting on her reunion with Paul Bradley, Gemma said, It was a long time coming, and I was just so chuffed because I haven’t seen Paul Bradley in over 20 years and so to be able to reconnect with him and work with him again felt like time had stood still. She added that Paul remains the same lovely person, making her feel like a child again in the best way.
Clare's Character Evolution and Heartbreak
Gemma delved into Clare's character, explaining that she is similar to herself, as she grew up playing the role from a young age. She described Clare's past as a maneater and con artist in 2008, attributing these traits to inner trauma from losing her mother and feeling pushed out when Nigel met Julie. Now, Clare seeks her father's love, but faces devastation as Nigel struggles to recognise her.
Gemma explained, It’s a complete rejection in every sense of the word. It’s like losing her mum all over again, and I think she probably naively thought that Nigel would be around forever. She highlighted the emotional conflict, with both characters waiting for the other to make the first move.
Legacy and Fond Memories of EastEnders
The actress also shared her joy in reconnecting with other co-stars, including Steve McFadden and Barbara Windor, who helped her secure an agent she still works with today. She noted that some long-standing cast members, like Jane Slaughter and Ulric, have remained unchanged, adding to the show's enduring legacy for her.
Gemma concluded by emphasising the heartfelt nature of her return, stating that EastEnders is where she learned her craft and that being back feels like coming home. The storyline promises to deliver emotional depth as Clare navigates her relationship with Nigel amid his health struggles.
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
