EastEnders,13-01-2025,7048,Nigel Bates (PAUL BRADLEY),***EMBARGOED UNTIL 7th JAN 2025*** NOT TO GO LIVE ON WEBSITE UNTIL 27th DEC,BBC PUBLIC SERVICE,Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron
Former EastEnders Star Gemma Bissix Pours Cold Water on Clare Bates Comeback for Nigel Storyline
Former *EastEnders* actress Gemma Bissix has shut down the speculation surrounding her return to the BBC soap as Clare Bates. The rumors intensified following the comeback of her on-screen stepfather, Nigel, portrayed by Paul Bradley, who has recently been at the center of a poignant storyline involving dementia. Fans began to hope that this might lead to an emotional reunion between Clare and Nigel. However, Bissix has made it clear that she will not be reprising her role.
Rumors and Reality: Bissix’s Update
The speculation about Bissix’s return gained traction after Nigel’s narrative arc emerged, sparking hope among loyal viewers of *EastEnders*. In a candid recent interview, Bissix addressed the ongoing rumors. She clarified that she had not been approached by the show’s producers to consider a comeback. While she appreciates the fan interest in her character, she is not currently involved in *EastEnders* and has no plans to change that.
During her discussion, Bissix also shared her thoughts on the soap opera’s recent 40th anniversary. The milestone celebrated the show’s rich history by bringing back several beloved characters. However, for Bissix, nostalgia does not equate to a desire to return to her former role. She highlighted her preference for growth and moving forward rather than revisiting controversial storylines, which often characterized her time on the show.
Acknowledging the Present: Bissix’s Current Work
Gemma Bissix is back on screens, but in a different capacity. She currently stars as Clare Devine in *Hollyoaks*, captivating audiences with her fresh performance. The actress is embracing new challenges and exploring different characters, which she finds more rewarding than revisiting old roles. Bissix expressed her gratitude to the fans who have continued to support her throughout her career. She actively encourages them to watch her current work, as it reflects her growth as an actress.
Looking Back on Her Time in EastEnders
As Bissix reflects on her time as Clare Bates, she acknowledges how significant the role was in shaping her career. She fondly remembers the intense fan interactions and the impact her storyline had on the audience. However, she also admits that some of her on-screen experiences were not always easy, often involving heavy narratives that seemed to overshadow her character’s growth.
Despite the pressures of being in a long-running soap, Bissix’s fondness for her time in *EastEnders* is evident. She recognizes the show’s responsibilities in tackling real-life issues through storytelling but is content to leave the drama of the soap behind. Instead, she is focusing on new opportunities that allow her to expand her craft and connect with her audience in different ways.
The Future of Clare Bates in EastEnders
With Bissix firmly indicating she is not considering a return, fans may have to accept that Clare Bates, who has been a significant part of *EastEnders*, is unlikely to make a comeback anytime soon. The show continues to evolve, with old characters passing the torch to new ones, creating a space that keeps the narrative fresh and engaging. As the storyline with Nigel and the theme of dementia unfolds, it remains to be seen how the writers will navigate the past connections while forging new ones.
As always, *EastEnders* fans can look forward to unexpected twists and turns as the show progresses. While Bissix’s return may not be in the cards, her career continues to flourish, and she remains a beloved figure in the British television landscape.
For the latest news on *EastEnders* and updates on other beloved TV shows, fans are encouraged to stay tuned to dedicated entertainment news sections and streaming guides.
