EastEnders fans are once again making noise, and this time, it’s about a familiar face they want back on the Square. Clare Bates, played by Gemma Bissix, hasn’t been seen in nearly two decades, but her name is suddenly everywhere after a twist from a rival soap. With Gemma’s recent exit from Hollyoaks, viewers believe the timing couldn’t be better for Clare to return to Walford. Keep scrolling to know more.
Fans Rally For Clare’s Return To Walford
We saw many comebacks on the BBC soap this year. Zoe Slater and Max Branning also returned to Albert Square. Max’s secret past with Zoe has shaken the fans. And now fans want another former star to make her comeback.
It is none other than Gemma Bissix. She played Clare Bates on the soap. She had very recently reprised her role as Hollyoaks villain Clare Devine. When fans learnt that she would be leaving the Channel 4 soap again, they were pleased and demanded her return.
Gemma first played Clare Bates in 1993. She was the daughter of Debbie Tyler and the stepdaughter of Nigel Bates. She, however, left the soap in 1998, but she had been a part of some interesting storylines. Clare also returned for a brief period in 2008. And had a fling with Bradley Branning. After that, the fans haven’t seen her in the soap. Many fans believe that she was not given a proper send-off. And so now they want to see her in Albert Square again.
Nigel also returned to the show. He is suffering from major dementia. Fans want her to take care of her dad now, as he is struggling with his health issues. Social media was filled with messages about Clare. One fan posted: “Clare us coming home now surely.” while another one said, “ CLARE BATES RETURN LOOMS #EASTENDERS.” Fans want her to get the story she deserves.
What Clare’s Return Could Mean For EastEnders
If Clare returns to the BBC soap, it would be a nostalgic callback. Nigel’s dementia storyline has already connected with the audience. And Clare could add more layers to the existing storyline. Fans would get to see her navigate through her stepfather’s painful years till now. She could also reconnect with some known faces in the Square. And fans can expect drama all the way.
The timing also seems correct. Fans will soon say goodbye to Bobby Brazier and Lacey Turner as Freddie and Stacey Slater prepare to leave Walford. Clare’s return could minimise their loss. However, it is not official yet. For more EastEnders spoilers and updates, keep following Soap Opera Daily.