Jessica Gunning Reflects on Self-Discovery and Embracing Her Sexuality
Baby Reindeer actress Jessica Gunning has candidly shared her personal journey of coming out as gay four years ago, revealing she has never been in a romantic relationship but remains a "big believer in love." The 40-year-old star, who gained widespread recognition for her role as stalker Martha opposite Richard Gadd in the hit Netflix series, opened up about the pivotal moment in 2022 that led to her self-realisation.
A Late-Blooming Revelation
In a recent interview with The Sunday Times, Gunning described a conversation with a lesbian friend who was discussing her own moment of clarity about her sexuality. "And then I was, like… I'm gay! Everyone around me was gay. I just didn't think I could be," Gunning recalled. When questioned about why she hadn't recognised her own sexuality earlier, she explained, "I think it's because I've never been in a relationship before. With anyone."
She elaborated on her past avoidance of dating men, stating, "I didn't want to go out with guys and so I was finding a way to avoid it. I never knew how to flirt, I didn't get it. It didn't feel like I was lonely. I lived with my best mate. So I didn't feel like I was lacking anything."
Navigating Identity and Body Image
Gunning admitted that going 36 years without sexual intimacy was challenging, and she connected her lack of romantic experience to her body size, describing it as "like an otherness." This perception, she noted, served as a protective barrier, allowing her to avoid admitting she wasn't attracted to men by instead claiming it wasn't the right time to date.
Since the release of Baby Reindeer, Gunning has ventured into dating briefly but is currently single. Despite her limited experience, she emphasised her romantic nature, saying she is a "big believer in love" but prefers traditional courtship over dating apps, positioning herself as an old-fashioned romantic at heart.
Looking Ahead to New Projects
Professionally, Gunning is set to appear as Dame Washalot in the highly anticipated film adaptation of Enid Blyton's classic The Faraway Tree. The movie, which features a star-studded cast including Nicola Coughlan, Claire Foy, and Andrew Garfield, follows the Thompson family as they relocate to the English countryside and discover a magical tree with extraordinary inhabitants.
Adapted by BAFTA Award-winner Simon Farnaby and directed by Ben Gregor, production wrapped earlier this year, with filming taking place across southern England and at Shinfield Studios in Reading. The project is led by Oscar-winning director Sam Mendes' Neal Street Productions, known for successes like Call The Midwife, 1917, and Revolutionary Road.
According to the official synopsis, the film explores how the children's adventures through fantastical lands help the family reconnect and appreciate each other anew. Enid Blyton's books, translated into over 35 languages and selling more than 500 million copies worldwide, continue to captivate readers, solidifying her status as the most translated children's author globally.
Gunning's openness about her personal life coincides with this exciting career move, highlighting her growth both on and off-screen as she embraces new roles and a more authentic self.
