Gemma Bissix Returns to EastEnders After Two Decades
A familiar face is set to grace the screens of Albert Square once more as actress Gemma Bissix makes a highly anticipated comeback to the BBC soap opera EastEnders. This marks a significant return for Bissix, who is reprising her role as Clare Bates almost twenty years after her last regular stint on the show. The 42-year-old actress, who first stepped into the EastEnders universe at the tender age of nine in 1993, will be back for a special guest appearance this spring.
Bissix initially played Clare Bates, the daughter of Debbie Tyler and stepdaughter of Nigel Bates, from 1993 to 1998. She made a brief return to the iconic soap in 2008, but her upcoming appearance is set to be a pivotal moment, deeply intertwined with the developing storyline of her on-screen step-father, Nigel.
A Difficult Reunion: Clare Bates Returns for Nigel’s Dementia Storyline
Clare’s return to Walford is prompted by news of Nigel’s deteriorating health due to dementia. Despite being estranged from Nigel for some time, the news compels her to come back. However, upon her arrival, Clare is deeply affected by the reality of Nigel’s fragility and the stark prognosis he faces. This reunion is expected to be an emotional one, as both characters confront the passage of time and the challenges ahead.
Gemma Bissix expressed her enthusiasm for reprising the role, stating, “It was a real pleasure to be asked to reprise the role of Clare for Nigel’s storyline.” She alluded to a desire from fans to see this particular relationship explored again, noting the unique bond between Nigel and Clare. “Nigel and Clare were a formidable pairing in the 90’s with a very unique stepfather/stepdaughter relationship!” she remarked.
Bissix also shared her positive experience reconnecting with her former co-stars, Paul Bradley (Nigel Bates) and Karen Hardy (Debbie Bates), describing the reunion as surreal. “It has been so great to reconnect with Paul and Karen after all these years, and it’s crazy how time felt like it had stopped when we did!” she enthused. For Bissix, returning to EastEnders is a deeply personal experience. “I grew up on the set of EastEnders and essentially learnt my craft there, so it’s been a real full circle moment!” she added. She hopes viewers will be pleased to see Clare and Nigel back on screen together.
Navigating Dementia Care: Clare’s Role in Nigel’s Future
Clare’s arrival is anticipated to be dramatic, but her presence is crucial as Nigel’s loved ones grapple with the difficult decisions surrounding the next stages of his dementia care. EastEnders has collaborated with Dementia UK and other specialists to ensure Nigel’s storyline is portrayed with sensitivity and accuracy, reflecting the realities of living with dementia.
Ben Wadey, the Executive Producer of EastEnders, confirmed the show’s intention to bring Clare back. “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,” Wadey stated. He highlighted the complicated history between Nigel and Clare and emphasised the importance of revisiting their estranged relationship as Nigel’s dementia progresses and his care needs increase.
Beyond EastEnders: Bissix’s Diverse Career Path
While her return to EastEnders is generating excitement, Gemma Bissix is also widely recognised for her portrayal of the notorious villain Clare Devine in Hollyoaks. She played this role on and off between 2006 and 2013. In a surprising career move in 2022, Bissix revealed plans to return to Hollyoaks, not as an actress, but as a shadow director, working behind the scenes.
Bissix has been actively honing her directing skills, most recently with a production of Cinderella at Clacton’s Princes Theatre, which featured Britain’s Got Talent star George Sampson. Describing her passion for directing, Bissix told The Sun, “I absolutely love directing. It’s incredible to have a vision and see it all come together.” She noted that this was her second pantomime as a director, having also performed in one the previous year. “It’s great to be able to sit back and not have the pressure of going on stage,” she commented. Bissix sees directing as a significant passion but maintains that she will never entirely give up acting. “I’m too much of a show off!” she quipped.
