Gemma Bissix Makes Dramatic Return to EastEnders After Two Decades
EastEnders star Gemma Bissix is poised to make a highly anticipated return to the BBC soap opera, nearly twenty years after her last appearance. The actress, now 42, will reprise her iconic role as Clare Bates in a poignant storyline centered on her stepfather Nigel's dementia.
A Nostalgic Comeback to Albert Square
Gemma Bissix first joined EastEnders in 1993 at the tender age of nine, portraying Clare Bates, the daughter of Debbie Tyler and stepdaughter of Nigel Bates. She remained a regular cast member from 1993 until 1998, departing Albert Square before making a brief comeback in 2008. Now, she is set for another short stint this spring, marking a significant full-circle moment in her career.
On returning to the role, Gemma expressed her enthusiasm, stating, 'It was a real pleasure to be asked to reprise the role of Clare for Nigel's storyline. I was hoping to get the call as I think the fans wanted EastEnders to revisit their relationship.' She fondly recalled the dynamic between Nigel and Clare, describing them as 'a formidable pairing in the 90's with a very unique stepfather/stepdaughter relationship.'
Emotional Reunion Amidst Dementia Plot
In the upcoming episodes, Clare returns to Walford after learning of Nigel's worsening dementia, despite their estrangement. Her arrival is expected to be dramatic, as she is shocked by his fragility and the harsh reality of his prognosis. This reunion will be crucial as Nigel's loved ones gather to decide on his future care needs.
Ben Wadey, EastEnders Executive Producer, commented on the storyline, saying, 'We always knew we wanted to bring Clare Bates back to Walford as we continue Nigel's storyline, and I'm delighted that Gemma said yes.' He emphasized the complexity of their relationship, noting, 'The stepfather and daughter duo share a complicated history and have been estranged for many years, but it was essential for us to revisit this relationship as Nigel's dementia progresses.'
To ensure accuracy and sensitivity, EastEnders has collaborated with Dementia UK and field experts in developing Nigel's dementia narrative. Gemma added, 'Whilst it will be an emotional reunion, I hope the viewers will be pleased to see Clare and Nigel on screen together once again!'
From Acting to Directing: Gemma's Diverse Career
Beyond EastEnders, Gemma Bissix is renowned for her role as the villain Clare Devine in Hollyoaks, which she played intermittently from 2006 to 2013. In 2022, it was revealed that she planned a return to Hollyoaks, not as an actress but behind the camera as a shadow director.
Gemma has honed her directing skills with productions like Cinderella at Clacton’s Princes Theatre, featuring Britain's Got Talent star George Sampson. She shared her passion for directing, telling The Sun, 'I absolutely love directing. It’s incredible to have a vision and see it all come together.' Despite this new venture, she affirmed, 'But I don’t think I’ll ever give up acting though... I'm too much of a show off!'
Reflecting on her EastEnders roots, Gemma noted, 'I grew up on the set of EastEnders and essentially learnt my craft there, so it's been a real full circle moment!' Her return promises to blend nostalgia with contemporary storytelling, offering fans a heartfelt glimpse into Clare and Nigel's evolving relationship.
