Gemma Bissix is reprising the function of Clare Bates for a brief stint this spring as she returns to EastEnders as a part of Nigel Bates’ dementia storyline.
Despite being estranged from her stepdad Nigel, Clare returns to Walford when information of his worsening dementia reaches her, however she is shocked when she arrives and is confronted by Nigel’s fragility and the truth of his prognosis.
With feelings at an all-time excessive, and with outdated wounds to fix with Nigel’s spouse Julie, Clare’s arrival is not going to be with out drama, nevertheless it quickly turns into obvious that her return is important for all concerned as Nigel’s family members collectively resolve what’s finest for Nigel within the subsequent stage of his dementia care.
EastEnders has been working with Dementia UK and specialists within the discipline on Nigel’s storyline to make sure it has been portrayed as sensitively and as precisely as doable.
On reprising the function, actress Gemma Bissix stated: “It was a real pleasure to be asked to reprise the role of Clare for Nigel’s storyline. I was hoping to get the call as I think the fans wanted EastEnders to revisit their relationship. Nigel and Clare were a formidable pairing in the 90s with a very unique stepfather/stepdaughter relationship! It has been so great to reconnect with Paul and Karen after all these years, and it’s crazy how time felt like it had stopped when we did! I grew up on the set of EastEnders and essentially learnt my craft there, so it’s been a real full circle moment! Whilst it will be an emotional reunion, I hope the viewers will be pleased to see Clare and Nigel on screen together once again!”
Ben Wadey, EastEnders Executive Producer added: “We always knew we wanted to bring Clare Bates back to Walford as we continue Nigel’s storyline, and I’m delighted that Gemma said yes. The stepfather and daughter duo share a complicated history and have been estranged for many years, but it was essential for us to revisit this relationship as Nigel’s dementia progresses and the family start to consider his additional care needs.”
CT3
