Classic EastEnders Star Hints at Clare Bates’ Future Comebacks

Gemma Bissix, known for her role as Clare Bates in the classic British soap EastEnders, has suggested that her character may return in future storylines following her recent reappearance in the show. Bissix’s character came back into the spotlight during a poignant storyline focused on her estranged father, Nigel Bates, played by Paul Bradley. Nigel has been struggling with worsening dementia, which has set the stage for an emotional reunion.

Bissix, who first portrayed Clare at the age of nine in 1993, expressed her excitement at returning to the iconic series. “I was definitely hoping, I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t,” she shared in an exclusive interview with Radio Times. The actress revealed that her agent had previously contacted EastEnders about her potential availability, and producers indicated they were considering bringing Clare back, albeit much later than anticipated.

The storyline has taken a heart-wrenching turn, as Clare’s arrival comes at a time when Nigel’s condition has deteriorated significantly. He now requires care that his wife, Julie Bates (played by Karen Henthorn), and best friend Phil Mitchell (played by Steve McFadden), can no longer provide. Despite years of estrangement, Nigel’s confusion leads him to ask for Clare, but he does not recognize her when she appears at his hospital bed.

Bissix elaborated on the emotional complexity of Clare’s return. “Julie has told Clare over the phone that Nigel is ill, but not how far gone he is,” she explained. Clare feels hurt and abandoned, believing Julie has kept the extent of Nigel’s condition from her. Over the years, Clare has grappled with feelings of neglect after Nigel married Julie, complicating their relationship further.

The character’s previous fallout with Nigel was hinted at during Bissix’s brief return in 2008, where Clare had transformed from a sweet schoolgirl into a more troubled adult. “That was all a bolshy façade,” Bissix explained. “Clare was searching for somewhere to belong and still processing her mum’s death.” She emphasized that Clare has matured since then, and her return offers viewers a chance to see a more nuanced version of the character.

As the storyline unfolds, Clare’s emotional journey resonates deeply with her past. She grapples with her regrets about their lost years together, especially as she realizes that her opportunity to reconnect may be slipping away. The character’s support comes unexpectedly from Lexi Pearce (played by Isabella Brown), who shares a similar experience of losing a parent. Their relationship highlights the impact of grief and the importance of familial bonds, even amidst complicated histories.

Bissix, reflecting on her early days, recalled how she landed the role of Clare Bates due to her physical resemblance to her on-screen mother, Debbie Bates (played by Nicola Duffett). She shared, “I guess I was confident enough to read a script. At nine years old, you either deliver lines and sound natural, or like a robot.” Her initial role, meant for just three episodes, extended to six years, marking a significant period in her life.

The mid-1990s saw EastEnders reach its peak popularity, often drawing around 20 million viewers. Bissix fondly remembers her first day on set, where she received encouragement from co-stars, particularly Steve McFadden, who helped ease her nerves as a newcomer.

After leaving the show, Bissix explored various career paths before returning to television in the role of the villainous Clare Devine in Hollyoaks. “It’s obviously very far-removed from me!” she said, describing the character’s dark traits. Despite the stark contrast, she acknowledges the excitement of stepping back into the world of soap operas.

Bissix expressed her enthusiasm for the grounded storytelling style of EastEnders, noting that the emotional depth of the current narrative resonates more with her own experiences. “When Clare Devine cries, you never know if it’s fake tears! EastEnders feels more real,” she remarked, highlighting her connection to Clare Bates as a character closest to her true self.

As the storyline progresses and Nigel’s condition remains precarious, Bissix hints at more visits from Clare. “It’s inevitable Nigel won’t last forever,” she noted. “When he passes, it will be so sad.” She expressed a desire to explore Clare’s relationship with Julie further and hopes to see Clare return for significant family moments, such as Nigel’s funeral.

With Clare now married and a mother herself, Bissix even envisions a future where her real-life daughter could join the cast as Clare’s child. “How good would that be?” she mused, reflecting on the possibilities that lie ahead for her character in EastEnders.

As audiences await the next developments in Clare Bates’ journey, Bissix’s return has reignited interest in her character and the complex dynamics within the Bates family. The emotional depth of this storyline promises to resonate with longtime fans while introducing newer viewers to the cherished legacy of EastEnders.