Former EastEnders star Gemma Bissix pours cold water on Clare Bates comeback for Nigel storyline
Former *EastEnders* actress Gemma Bissix, known for her iconic role as Clare Bates, has decisively stated that there are no plans for her to return to the BBC’s long-running soap. Recent chatter among fans hinted at a potential comeback for Clare, particularly in light of her stepfather Nigel’s re-entry into the storyline, which is layered with emotional weight due to his dementia diagnosis. However, Bissix has confirmed that she has not been contacted to reprise her role, dousing any speculation about Clare’s return.
The Buzz Around Clare Bates’ Possible Return
The speculation surrounding Clare Bates arose after the show hinted at a possible reunion between Clare and her stepfather Nigel. As the storyline delves into Nigel’s deteriorating mental health, many fans began to wonder if Clare would step back into the limelight, potentially revisiting her complex family dynamics. Gemma Bissix, however, has clarified her stance regarding these rumors, emphasizing that she has not received any communication from the show’s production team about a return.
Bissix Shares Her Thoughts on Nigel’s Storyline
During a recent interview, Bissix acknowledged the significance of Nigel’s storyline, especially as it intersects with serious issues like dementia. She commended the show’s portrayal of this sensitive topic and highlighted the importance of handling such narratives with care. Bissix expressed her concerns that an on-screen return might not align with her values, particularly if it meant exploiting the vulnerability of a character dealing with dementia.
Looking Back on Her Time at EastEnders
Reflecting on her time in *EastEnders*, Bissix shared fond memories of her tenure on the show, which contributed significantly to her career as an actress. She remains proud of her role as Clare Bates and the impact the character had on audiences. Currently, she is busy with her role as Clare Devine in another popular soap, *Hollyoaks*, keeping her engaged with the soap opera community and her dedicated fanbase.
As the conversation continues regarding character comebacks in soap operas, Bissix’s perspective provides an insightful look into the emotional complexities involved in these decisions. Fans eager for updates on *EastEnders* and future storylines can stay tuned, as the series airs from Monday to Thursday on BBC One, and catch up on missed episodes through BBC iPlayer.
