EastEnders is bringing back a familiar face as Gemma Bissix returns as Clare Bates. After a recent run in Hollyoaks, the actress is heading back to Walford for a high-stakes storyline involving her stepdad Nigel’s worsening dementia.
Clare must now put aside old family feuds to help decide the next difficult steps for Nigel’s long-term care. Keep scrolling to learn more.
Clare Returns To Help Nigel In EastEnders
Gemma, who only recently played Hollyoaks’ Clare Devine, will shortly be back as Clare Bates for a few episodes. As per teasers, she goes to Walford upon hearing of stepfather Nigel’s dementia getting worse. However, upon her arrival, she is so upset to see his deteriorating health that she can hardly believe it.
In addition to that, Clare very quickly sees that if she is going to help Nigel, she will have to set aside her differences with Julie. The duo have many old wounds which haven’t healed yet. However, now they will both come together for Nigel. Also, viewers will see the stepdaughter-stepfather duo navigating the challenges of his health and still managing their own strained relationship.
Reunion Of Past Characters
Gemma Bissix last appeared on the BBC soap in 2018. Now the actor has expressed excitement at returning. She said that it was a “real pleasure” to reprise Clare for Nigel’s storyline. Also, many fans had wanted the relationship revisited.
“Nigel and Clare were a formidable pairing in the 90’s with a very unique stepfather/stepdaughter relationship! 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! I grew up on the set of EastEnders and essentially learnt my craft there, so it’s been a real full circle moment! Whilst it will be an emotional reunion, I hope the viewers will be pleased to see Clare and Nigel on screen together once again, said Gemma.”
Even the show’s boss, Ben Wadey, confirmed the importance of bringing Clare back. He said that the duo have had a complicated history. Also, they have been estranged for years. So now, revisiting their relationship was crucial as Nigel’s dementia progresses.
“We always knew we wanted to bring Clare Bates back to Walford as we continue Nigel’s storyline, and I am delighted that Gemma said yes. The stepfather and daughter duo share a complicated history and have been estranged for many years. “But it was essential that we revisit this relationship as Nigel’s dementia progresses and the family starts to think about his additional care needs, ” added Ben. For more EastEnders spoilers and updates, keep following Soap Opera Daily.