We love a good soap comeback—and this one has got us seriously excited! While younger fans may only know Gemma Atkinson for her star turn on Strictly Come Dancing and her Instagram profile - which boasts an impressive 1.7 million followers—the actress started out her career as Lisa Hunter on Hollyoaks back in 2001.
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Gemma Atkinson Hollyoaks return
Now, Gemma has revealed that she’s set to reprise her breakout role in scenes that will air next year. Sadly, it sounds like it will only be a short stint, but we’re still excited to see her back in the ’Oaks. Gemma confirmed on her Instagram:
I am nipping back to Hollyoaks. Not long term unfortunately because I've got another job haven't I? I'm stuck here [at Hits radio's Drivetime show]. When did I sign, it was months ago, wasn't it? You've had to keep it quiet. People's response has been lovely so thank you.
Who is Lisa Hunter in Hollyoaks?
Just in case you haven’t been watching Hollyoaks since 2001, here’s a quick recap on Gemma’s character, Lisa Hunter. She joined the soap as a teenager and faced horrific bullying at school at the hands of Steph Dean and other girls.
Lisa left Hollyoaks in 2005 with boyfriend Ben Davies. The couple made further appearances in late-night spin-offs Hollyoaks: Let Loose and Hollyoaks: In The City which saw them living in Liverpool. In her last appearance, Lisa was abducted to be used in a snuff film. When Ben came to her rescue, she accidentally shot him dead.
In her 15 years off-screen, Lisa is said to have found love again with a new activist boyfriend in Thailand—where she also met back up with former bully turned friend Zara Morgan. Zara returned to Hollyoaks in August this year after 16 years away from the soap, and Lisa’s return seems likely to be linked to her character.
