GEMMA ATKINSON

🌟 Gemma Atkinson: From Soap Star to Fitness Icon

🏡 Early Life and Education

Gemma Louise Atkinson was born on 16 November 1984 in Bury, Greater Manchester, England. She attended Castlebrook High School in Bury, where she completed her General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE). Her father, David Atkinson, was Scottish, hailing from Dumfries. ​

👠 Modeling Career

Atkinson began her career as a glamour model, gaining prominence in the mid-2000s. She appeared in various men's magazines, including FHM, Maxim, Loaded, Zoo, and Nuts. In October 2006, she notably featured in three of these publications in a single month, establishing herself as one of the UK's most prolific celebrity glamour models. ​

Her modeling work extended to promotional campaigns, serving as the female face of the 2007 British Grand Prix and participating in the "On Yer Bike London" initiative ahead of the Tour de France. She also modeled for lingerie brands such as La Senza and Ultimo's D-G range, opening Ultimo stores within Debenhams branches in London, Belfast, and Glasgow. ​

🎬 Acting Career

Atkinson's acting debut came in 2001 when she portrayed Lisa Hunter in the Channel 4 soap opera "Hollyoaks," a role she held until 2005 and reprised in 2022. She also appeared in three spin-off series: "Hollyoaks: After Hours" (2004), "Hollyoaks: Let Loose" (2005), and "Hollyoaks: In the City" (2006). ​

Her television career includes roles as Tamzin Bayle in "Casualty" (2011–2012, 2014) and Carly Hope in "Emmerdale" (2015–2017). Atkinson has also participated in reality TV series such as "I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!" (2007), "Celebrity MasterChef" (2007), and "Strictly Come Dancing" (2017), where she reached the final. ​

🎙️ Radio and Media Presence

Transitioning into radio, Atkinson co-hosted the Key 103 breakfast show with Mike Toolan from 2017 to 2018. She currently presents the drive time slot across the Hits Radio Network. 

In 2023, she launched a podcast titled "The Overshare," where she discusses various topics, including motherhood, fitness, and personal experiences. ​

🏋️‍♀️ Fitness and Wellness Advocacy

A dedicated fitness enthusiast, Atkinson follows a rigorous training regimen, including weight training sessions four times a week and cardio exercises. She often shares her workouts and wellness tips on social media, inspiring her followers to lead healthier lifestyles.

Her commitment to fitness led her to release a book titled "The Ultimate Body Plan" in 2017, offering insights into her exercise routines and nutritional advice. ​

👨‍👩‍👧 Personal Life

Atkinson is engaged to Spanish dancer Gorka Márquez, whom she met during the 2017 series of "Strictly Come Dancing." The couple has two children: a daughter, Mia, born in July 2019, and a son, Thiago, born in July 2023. ​

Their family life is featured in the reality show "Gemma and Gorka: Life Behind the Lens," which provides an intimate look into their personal and professional experiences. ​

🐾 Philanthropy and Advocacy

Atkinson is actively involved in charitable endeavors. She serves as the vice-patron of Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary in Lancashire and has participated in various fundraising events, including the Great Manchester Run, to support causes such as breast cancer awareness and children's hospitals. 

Gemma Atkinson's multifaceted career—from modeling and acting to radio presenting and fitness advocacy—demonstrates her versatility and dedication. Her personal journey, marked by resilience and a commitment to health and philanthropy, continues to inspire many across the UK and beyond.