In a move that has sent shockwaves through the soap opera world, Gemma Bissix is set to
reprise her iconic role as the nefarious Clare Devine in Channel 4’s ‘Hollyoaks’. This unexpected resurrection
comes 12 years after the character’s dramatic on-screen death, marking a sensational return as part of the show’s 30th-anniversary celebrations. (The Sun)
A Villainess Reborn
Clare Devine, introduced in 2005, quickly became one of ‘Hollyoaks” most formidable antagonists. Portrayed by Bissix from 2006, Clare’s manipulative schemes and ruthless tactics left a trail of destruction, including attempted murders, kidnappings, and psychological torment. Her reign of terror seemingly ended in 2013 when she was run over by Dr. Browning after a failed bombing attempt at The Loft nightclub. (Wikipedia)
However, in true soap opera fashion, death is not always the end. Bissix’s return as Clare Devine has been shrouded in secrecy, with details of her reappearance tightly guarded. What is known is that Clare’s comeback promises to reignite old feuds and introduce new conflicts, ensuring that her presence will once again disrupt the lives of Hollyoaks’ residents. (The Celeb Report)
Rekindling Past Rivalries
One of the most anticipated aspects of Clare’s return is her renewed interaction with Tom Cunningham, portrayed by Ellis Hollins. Tom, once a vulnerable child manipulated by Clare, is now an adult ready to confront his former tormentor. Their dynamic is expected to be a focal point of the upcoming episodes, offering a compelling exploration of past traumas and the quest for closure. (The Sun)
Additionally, Jamie Lomas is set to reprise his role as Warren Fox, another of Clare’s long-standing adversaries. Their tumultuous history, marked by betrayal and violence, is poised to culminate in a dramatic showdown that could have far-reaching consequences for the entire village. (Wikipedia)
A Strategic Revival
Clare Devine’s return is not merely a nostalgic nod to the past but a strategic move to invigorate the show’s narrative as it celebrates three decades on air. Executive producer Hannah Cheers has emphasized the importance of honoring the show’s legacy while introducing fresh storylines that resonate with contemporary audiences. (The Sun)
This approach has already yielded positive results. Despite reducing its weekly episodes to three, ‘Hollyoaks’ has experienced a 23% increase in total viewership and a 71% rise in per-episode engagement, thanks in part to its streaming-first strategy. (Digital Spy, The Sun)
Bissix’s Enduring Legacy
Gemma Bissix’s portrayal of Clare Devine has earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Her performance garnered multiple British Soap Awards, including ‘Villain of the Year’ and ‘Best Exit’. Beyond ‘Hollyoaks’, Bissix has showcased her versatility through appearances in ‘EastEnders’, reality shows like ‘Dancing on Ice’ and ‘Celebrity MasterChef’, and stage productions. (Wikipedia, The Sun)
Her return to ‘Hollyoaks’ is a testament to her enduring impact on the series and the soap genre as a whole. Fans have expressed excitement over her comeback, noting that Bissix appears to have barely aged, further blurring the lines between past and present in the show’s intricate tapestry. (The Sun)
Anticipation Builds
As ‘Hollyoaks’ approaches its milestone anniversary, the reintroduction of Clare Devine promises to deliver high-stakes drama and emotional resonance. With old wounds reopened and new alliances formed, the village braces for the chaos that Clare’s return will undoubtedly unleash.(The Sun)
Viewers can catch the unfolding drama when Clare makes her on-screen return on May 26, 2025. As the countdown begins, one thing is certain: in ‘Hollyoaks’, the past is never truly buried, and villains like Clare Devine have a way of rising from the ashes to reclaim their place in the spotlight.(Wikipedia)
