Gemma Bissix Reflects on Self-Doubt and Soap Icon Status
In an exclusive revelation, Gemma Bissix, the acclaimed actress known for her roles in EastEnders and Hollyoaks, has opened up about her struggles with self-doubt during her younger years. The 42-year-old star, who recently exited Hollyoaks in dramatic fashion, admitted she was often her own harshest critic, questioning her abilities and worth in the competitive world of television soaps.
Early Career and Learning on Set
Bissix began her acting journey at just nine years old, landing the role of Clare Bates on EastEnders in 1993. She credits the BBC soap as her training ground, where she learned her craft alongside legends like the late Dame Barbara Windsor and Steve McFadden. "It was definitely where I learned my craft," she recalls. "Barbara Windsor took me under her wing and taught me what to do, while Steve McFadden helped me with learning lines." Despite this supportive environment, Bissix confesses she was "really hard on herself", frequently doubting her talent and body image.
Regrets and Self-Belief
Looking back, Bissix expresses regret over her lack of self-belief, wishing she could advise her younger self to embrace confidence. "I used to think, was I any good? We all have self-doubt," she shares. "If I’d just had a bit more self-belief back then, I probably would have enjoyed life a lot more." Now a mother of two daughters, Juliette and Vienna, she emphasizes the importance of living in the present and believing in oneself, a lesson she hopes to pass on to her children.
Recent Soap Returns and Balancing Act
Bissix recently reprised her role as the villainous Clare Devine on Hollyoaks for the fourth time, culminating in a cliffhanger exit, and made a brief return to EastEnders after over 30 years. Juggling these demanding shoots with motherhood was challenging, but she found a balance, noting her daughters are unfazed by her TV fame. "They don't even care," she laughs. "I'm just mum to them."
Behind the Scenes and Future Aspirations
Filming intense scenes, such as killing off her real-life best friend Tamara Wall's character on Hollyoaks, was emotionally taxing for Bissix. She describes it as "really sad" but praises the camaraderie with co-stars. As for the future, Bissix teases potential roles in dramas, expressing interest in playing a detective or forensic analyst. "I would love to be in a drama," she reveals, hinting at new career directions beyond soaps.
Personal Life and Downtime
To unwind, Bissix enjoys football as a Chelsea fan and reality TV shows like Love Island, which offer escapism from her acting work. However, she has recently given up her daily pint of beer to manage her weight, focusing instead on family time with her husband Kristian Rouse and their daughters. Despite the chaos, she finds grounding in motherhood, even if it doesn't always relax her.
Gemma Bissix's journey from a self-doubting child actress to a soap icon serves as an inspiring tale of resilience and growth in the entertainment industry.
