Gemma Atkinson Confronts 'Snide' Comments About Her Manchester Accent
Strictly Come Dancing star Gemma Atkinson has publicly addressed the hurtful remarks she has received about her distinctive Manchester accent, revealing that online trolls have targeted her way of speaking. The 41-year-old actress and presenter, who hails from Bury in Greater Manchester, opened up about the issue during a recent episode of her and fiancé Gorka Marquez's podcast, Lost in Translation.
Gorka Marquez's Heartfelt Defence of Gemma's Accent
During the podcast conversation, professional dancer Gorka Marquez shared that he actually finds Gemma's accent endearing, particularly her use of phrases like "me house" and "me calf." He expressed genuine affection, stating: "I love it. I find it very cute when you speak like that. That's one of the things that attracted me to you." This supportive comment prompted Gemma to reveal the darker side of public perception regarding her regional dialect.
The Cruel Reality of Online Trolling
Gemma disclosed that she has received direct messages on social media from individuals who criticised her accent, with some going as far as to say: "You're really, really fit until you start talking but we can't deal with your accent." The former Hollyoaks star responded with characteristic wit and defiance, retorting: "You're not fit with or without talking, Barry. How snide, you've not even spoken and you're not attractive."
She emphasised that what truly matters is the opinion of those closest to her, quipping: "I'm glad you find it attractive, that's all that matters right, you and Tom Hardy, no one else needs to." This revelation highlights the persistent issue of regional accent discrimination that continues to affect public figures across the entertainment industry.
Personal Struggles Behind Delayed Wedding Plans
The conversation also touched upon more personal matters, as Gemma explained the emotional reasons behind her and Gorka's decision to postpone their wedding. The couple, who are engaged and share two children named Mia and Thiago, have yet to officially tie the knot. In a heartfelt Father's Day letter last year, Gemma revealed that the memory of her father David, who passed away from a heart attack when she was just 17, has made the prospect of marriage particularly difficult.
She confessed: "I think one of the reasons we've not done it yet is because of you. We've come close many times, but something stops me. I'm now the last Atkinson in the family line and if I give up my name, there's no more of us. I don't want to lose that remaining tie to you. Not having you walk me down the aisle... maybe I'll just stay engaged for a bit longer."
Future Wedding Plans and Family Life
Despite these emotional hurdles, Gemma expressed confidence that her father would have approved of Gorka and their children, saying: "I think you'd be really happy with my choice of fiancé. You'd get such a kick out of Gorka being a professional dancer – you loved to dance – and I know you'd adore your grandchildren."
Gorka has previously indicated that they plan to marry once their son Thiago becomes more independent, explaining: "We will do it, it's just not at the moment. We are very good like this, especially with having the kids. Thiago is not independent yet so we don't want to go into the wedding and be carrying him." This practical approach reflects the couple's focus on family stability amidst their busy careers in the public eye.
