Gemma Hawkins actress Patricia Potter made her EastEnders debut earlier this year.
EastEnders fans have been left surprised after discovering why the actress playing Gemma Hawkins looks so familiar.
Gemma, played by Patricia Potter, joined the BBC One soap earlier this year as the estranged sister of Nicola Mitchell, portrayed by Laura Doddington. She arrived in Walford alongside the rest of the Hawkins family.
The family includes Nicola’s other sister Jodie, played by Anna Constable, their mother Rose, played by Marian McLoughlin, Gemma’s son Ryder, played by Felix Uff, and her husband Ned, portrayed by Jamie Bamber. However, it quickly became clear that Nicola and her mum Rose have a strained relationship.
Gemma was determined to bring the divided family back together, and the Hawkins clan has since made Albert Square their home. However, a major secret involving Nicola and Ned was recently exposed. Nicola was revealed to be responsible for the crash that resulted in her father’s death, while Ned helped her hide the truth.
As for actress Patricia Potter, she is well known for her work across television. Over the years, she has appeared in shows including Brookside, Hollyoaks, Absolutely Fabulous and Jam and Jerusalem. She also portrayed Jane Fairweather in the BBC series Doctors between 2016 and 2017.
However, it is Patricia’s role in the BBC medical drama Holby City that has caught the attention of fans. She played Diane Lloyd from 2002 until 2007 before returning to the character several years later in 2019.
Reacting to Patricia’s previous TV roles on an EastEnders Facebook fan page, one viewer asked: “What do you guys think of the new family? Where have I seen Gemma before? It’s bugging me!!!”
Another fan quickly replied: “Holby City.” A third responded: “Oh yes, of course.” Meanwhile, a fourth fan added: “She was brilliant in Holby… she’s a fantastic actress.”
Gemma’s husband Ned is played by Beyond Paradise star Jamie Bamber, while their son Ryder is portrayed by actor Felix Uff. Rose, Gemma’s mum, is played by Marian McLoughlin, who is best known for her work in the BBC series Doctors.
Speaking about joining EastEnders, Patricia previously said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining this iconic show as part of a brand-new family.
“It’s such a wonderful opportunity and a real privilege to work alongside such talented actors and amazing people. I couldn’t be more excited or grateful!”
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