Key Highlights
- Gemma Bissix returns as Clare Bates for a brief but emotional storyline with her estranged stepfather Nigel.
- The reunion is prompted by Nigel’s deteriorating dementia and the need to revisit their complicated relationship.
- Bissix’s last appearance was in 2008, marking an almost two-decade absence from the show.
- Executive producer Ben Wadey emphasizes the importance of this storyline for Nigel’s ongoing dementia narrative.
The Return of Clare Bates: A Full-Circle Moment
EastEnders is set to witness a full-circle moment as Gemma Bissix reprises her role as Clare Bates. Her last appearance on the long-running soap opera was in 2008, marking an almost two-decade absence. This upcoming return is not just a nostalgic nod but a poignant exploration of family dynamics and the challenges of dementia.
Nigel’s Dementia and Clare’s Reunion
The emotional storyline kicks off when Nigel Bates (played by Paul Bradley) faces the harsh reality of his progressing dementia. His wife Julie (Karen Henthorn) and Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden), his former business partner, decide to place him in a residential care home after he was found unconscious in a bathtub. This decision prompts a reunion between Clare and Nigel, who share a complicated stepfather/stepdaughter relationship.
Clare’s return is essential for the soap opera as it delves into the complexities of dementia and its impact on families. The storyline aims to offer viewers an intimate look at how loved ones navigate care decisions and emotional reunions in the face of such a debilitating condition.
A Complicated History: Clare and Nigel
Clare’s character first appeared in 1993 as the daughter of Debbie Bates (Nicola Duffett). Nigel and Debbie tied the knot in 1994, but Debbie was killed off a year later in a hit-and-run. Following this tragic event, Nigel took full custody of Clare and moved to Scotland with her after meeting his current wife Julie. This history sets the stage for their reunion, which is both emotional and challenging.
“It was a real pleasure to be asked to reprise the role of Clare for Nigel’s storyline,” Bissix said. “I think the fans wanted EastEnders to revisit their relationship.” She also expressed her excitement about reconnecting with Bradley and Karen Henthorn, adding that it felt like time had stopped when they began filming again.
The Production Team’s Vision
Executive producer Ben Wadey highlighted the importance of bringing Clare back to Walford. “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,” he stated.
The storyline is part of EastEnders’ ongoing collaboration with Dementia UK, which aims to raise awareness about the condition. The return of other characters like Debbie Bates, Pat Butcher, and Barry Evans in hallucinations further illustrates how dementia can affect perception and reality for those affected by it.
Clare’s emotional journey is set to begin this spring as EastEnders continues to explore the nuanced and heartfelt aspects of its long-running saga. The return of a beloved character with such a complex history promises to be both compelling and emotionally rich for viewers.
You might think this is new, but in reality, it’s been planned for months. The Independent is here to bring you the real story behind the scenes.
