Gemma Bissix is finally back on EastEnders as Clare Bates. But don’t expect the psycho villain she played in Hollyoaks. She’s been open about how different this is; while Clare Devine was a total murderer, Clare Bates is actually “raw” and way closer to who Gemma is in real life. Keep scrolling to learn more.
Clare’s Reunion With Nigel And Her Journey Back Into Character
Gemma Bissix talks about stepping back into the BBC drama. She says, it hits differently than her role on Hollyoaks ever did. Gemma played Clare Devine on that show. Bissix explains that the two roles never felt the same. “In Hollyoaks, my character is a murderer…whereas Clare comes with really raw emotion, said Gemma.”
Also, not Clare’s world is connected to her stepfather’s decline. She admits that she didn’t need any special tricks to step into the role again.” I don’t think there is anything specific I do…Clare is very similar to me,” she shares. She adds that some childhood roles are often buried inside. But for her, returning felt like she opened a drawer she thought she’d closed long ago.
The actress has, in fact, grown up on that set. She learnt who she was while learning who Clare was. Gemma also spoke about reuniting with Paul Bradley and Karen Henthorn. She added, “I haven’t seen Paul Bradley in over 20 years…it felt like time had stood still.”
However, Gemma quickly got pulled into the rhythm she had as a child actor. Also, Paul and Karen make her feel like nine years old again, but in the nicest way.
An Emotional New Chapter Ahead For Nigel’s Closed Ones In EastEnders
While speaking about returning to Nigel’s dementia storyline, she calls it a responsibility. “It’s a privilege…it’s a storyline that sadly resonates with so many people, she adds.” It also reminds her of the years that she spent learning craft on that very set.
When Clare returns to Walford, she clashes with Julie Bates. However, for Nigel’s sake, the two women decide to keep their differences aside. Later, when Clare arrives at the hospital, she is left frozen. It’s because Nigel doesnt recognise her. The returnee also blames Julie for informing her late on purpose.
Soon, Lexi and Clare decide to throw a party for Nigel. However, without informing Julie and Phil, they discharged him from the hospital. After which, they all take him to his new home. For more EastEnders spoilers and updates, keep following Soap Opera Daily.