Hollyoaks legend Gemma Merna breaks silence on returning to the soap after EastEnders’ Cindy Beale is back from the dead
HOLLYOAKS legend Gemma Merna won't do a Cindy Beale and has ruled out returning from the dead to the hit C4 soap.
In an exclusive chat with The Sun, Gemma, who played tragic Carmel McQueen from 2006-2014 before she was tragically killed off, said she was more excited about her new role starring in Brassic with pal Michelle Keegan.
Speaking at the at Wembley Park , Gemma, who runs a successful Mind and Wellness site, said: "Hahahaha - well Carmel did die so no return there.
"I loved my time on Hollyoaks it was an incredible time of my life and I am so proud of being able to bring the character to everyone's screen.
The chapter is closed on that time of my life and I am excited for what new characters I will play in the future."
It came as Michelle Collins reprised her role as Cindy Beale, back from the dead this week.
Read more on Hollyoaks
She opened up about how Michelle Keegan made her feel at home on the set of Brassic - her first major role since Hollyoaks.
Gemma told The Sun: " The biggest challenge was I was so nervous working with a new team but as soon as I got onto set Michelle Keegan was there and she gave me a big hug, made me feel so comfortable as we have known each other for years, I was so grateful to her for making me feel at ease.
"Once I relaxed into it all came back to me and I loved every second of filming again. I felt at home."
Nowadays Gemma's life is so different as she embraces her body ahead of her milestone 40th birthday.
Most read in TV
The star, who played noughties pin-up Carmel alongside Jennifer Metcalfe, who played Mercedes, admitted there was a lot of pressure on the Mcqueen sisters to look good.
She said: "When I was younger I felt the pressure around body image but now I don't really focus on my physical body anymore.
"I focus on a healthy mind through meditation which helps me to be more connected with myself, I always say if you feel good on the inside it shines out. "
Speaking about turning 40 soon, she said: "I am so grateful for every year of my life, I am happy, healthy, have an amazing family, close friends and 3 incredible dogs I am living by best life and doing what I love everyday what more could I wish for.
"I feel younger now than in my 20's, I also think that has a lot to do with the fact I know myself so much more now, I am comfortable in my own skin and like the person I have become. "
Actress and life coach Gemma Merna led community yoga classes in the heart of London Designer Outlet, marking the start of the Summer Solstice celebrations. London Designer Outlet (LDO) in Wembley Park is a must-visit shopping destination, offering savings of up to 70% off RRP every day from leading high street names, aspirational labels, and lifestyle brands. LDO also features more than 20 restaurants and refreshment outlets and a 9-screen Cineworld cinema.
#WembleyPark
