By Angie Quinn
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EastEnders fans are buzzing with speculation that Clare Bates, played by actress Gemma Bissix, is set for a dramatic return to Walford after reportedly leaving her role on Hollyoaks.
Gemma, 42, is best known for her role as the scheming Clare Devine on the Channel 4 soap, which she took on in 2006. However, EastEnders devotees will also remember her as Clare Bates, the estranged step-daughter of Nigel Bates (Paul Bradley).
Nigel, the former video shop owner, made a sensational comeback to the Square at Christmas 2024, 26 years after he left for a new life in Scotland. Upon his return, he reconnected with old mate Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden), and it was revealed that Nigel was grappling with early-stage dementia.
Nigel also reunited with his wife Julie (Karen Henthorn) whom he had left behind following his shocking health diagnosis, fearing he would become a ‘burden’ to her, reports Plymouth Live.
Phil has since invited Julie to stay in Walford as they both commit to caring for Nigel as his condition deteriorates.
However, Clare Bates has yet to show up in Walford, with hints suggesting she’s lost touch with her stepfather.
Clare first appeared in 1993 as the daughter of Nigel’s first wife, Debbie (Nicola Duffett), and she left for a new life with Nigel in 1998.
In 2008, Clare briefly returned to Walford, no longer the innocent schoolgirl but showing signs of her villainous side.
Meanwhile, Gemma first appeared in Hollyoaks as Clare Devine back in 2006 before departing twelve months later. She made brief comebacks to Chester in 2009 and 2013 when her character met her demise.
In typical soap fashion, Clare turned out to be alive and made her return earlier this year, immediately stirring up drama.
Nevertheless, reports from The Metro suggest Gemma is preparing to exit Hollyoaks yet again, prompting EastEnders viewers to speculate about her potential comeback to Walford as Clare Bates during Nigel’s dementia storyline.
On X, one fan posted: “Yeah it’s time to also bring back Clare Bates #EastEnders”, whilst another declared: “Her long awaited return to Albert Square looms #eastenders.”
A third added: “Clare is coming home now surely #EastEnders”, whilst someone else proclaimed: “CLARE BATES LOOMS.”
“Could Julie’s secret phone calls be with Clare? Surely she must come back to say goodbye to Nigel?? #EastEnders”, questioned another viewer.
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC One and iPlayer
