Gemma Atkinson is an English actress, radio presenter, and former glamour model best known for her roles in British television and her appearances on popular reality shows. She was born on November 16, 1984, in Bury, Greater Manchester, and first gained fame playing Lisa Hunter in the hit soap Hollyoaks (2001–2005). Her portrayal of Lisa, a character involved in intense storylines such as bullying and domestic abuse, showed her strong acting skills and earned her a loyal fan base. She later returned to the role in spin-offs like Hollyoaks: In the City and Hollyoaks: Let Loose.
After her success on Hollyoaks, Atkinson expanded her career into other TV dramas and reality shows. She appeared in series such as Waterloo Road and the medical drama Casualty, proving she could handle a wide range of roles. Her popularity grew even more after taking part in reality and competition programs, including I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! in 2007 and Strictly Come Dancing in 2017, where her performances impressed viewers and helped her reach the final.
Alongside acting, she built a successful career in radio and fitness. Gemma became a radio host on Hits Radio UK, co-presenting a morning show, and also developed a strong following as a fitness enthusiast. She often shares workout routines, health tips, and motivational content with fans on social media, and she has even released a book focused on fitness and wellbeing.
Her personal life has also attracted attention, especially her relationship with professional dancer Gorka Márquez, whom she met during Strictly Come Dancing. The couple welcomed their first child in 2019 and have often shared moments from their family life with fans. Gemma has spoken openly about motherhood, staying active after pregnancy, and maintaining a healthy balance between work and family.
Today, Gemma Atkinson remains a familiar face in British entertainment, successfully balancing radio, television, and her passion for fitness. Her ability to reinvent herself over the years—from actress to reality star to fitness advocate—has kept her in the spotlight, while her down-to-earth personality and dedication to a healthy lifestyle continue to make her a popular and inspiring figure in the UK.
