Gemma Atkinson: Everything you need to know about the Hits Radio presenter
She's back on our airwaves!
We absolutely LOVE listening to Gemma Atkinson every weekday 4pm - 7pm with Mike Toolan on Hits Radio! As well as being a hugely talented radio presenter, actress and writer, Gemma has accomplished so much more throughout her career so far.
After a spell away, looking after baby Thiago, Gemma and Mike reunited on the radio — and it's safe to say the pair were very excited to be back in the studio together! Their show is full of fun, the biggest hits AND biggest throwbacks. Find out more about Gemma right here...
How old is Gemma Atkinson?
Gemma Atkinson was born on 16th November 1984, making her 40-years-old.
For her 40th birthday in 2024, Gem's partner Gorka shared a gushing post about her. He wrote on Instagram: '40 never looked better to me. I was supposed to get you a gift but I am the one who got it.
'Can’t wait to celebrate your big day with you. Thank you for all what you do for our little Famila.❤️ We love you so much!! As if you are freakin 40 😍😂'
How tall is she?
Gemma is 1.75 metres or 5ft 9in tall.
Where is she from?
Gemma was born in Bury, Greater Manchester.
How to listen to Gemma Atkinson on the radio
You can find Gemma every weekday from 4pm along with Mike Toolan here on Hits Radio. While she was off to have baby Thiago, we had the lovely Brooke Vincent taking her place.
When is Gemma Atkinson on Hits Radio?
Gemma presents the Gemma Atkinson and Mike Toolan show on Hits Radio every weekday afternoon from 4pm. Join the pair for loads of music, banter, and unmissable features.
What TV shows has Gemma Atkinson appeared on?
Before working at Hits Radio Gemma Atkinson appeared on a number of TV shows, both as a celebrity and as an actress.
Gemma started her acting career on Hollyoaks as Lisa Hunter in 2001, and went on to appear in Casualty as Tamzin Bayle, between 2011–2012 and 2014, and as Carly Hope on Emmerdale, 2015–2017.
She's also appeared on other shows such as I'm a Celebrity, Strictly Come Dancing and most recently, two seasons of Gemma and Gorka: Life Behind the Lens.
Which movies has she been in?
As well as her TV appearances, Gemma has also acted in a number of films including Baseline in 2009, How to Stop Being a Loser in 2011 and Fever in 2016.
She has been in a couple of horror films too, including 2010 movie 13Hrs, Devil's Pass (2013), a remake of Night of the Living Dead (2013) and Cain Hill (2017) with her Emmerdale co-star Michael Parr.
Does she have a children's book out?
She does! In February 2024, Gemma released her first ever children's book called Dogs Don't Dance.
Discussing her new book on Lorraine on Wednesday 7th Feb, Gemma said: "The thing I love about this book is that obviously the dance element is there, but I was always mindful that I can’t dance but I gave it a go. With Strictly you learn a dance routine, you don’t learn to dance. You learn a routine, but then it’s forgotten - but I still tried and I still did really well, and I had the best time and ultimately it changed my life because I met Gorka and we have children.
“So the kind of message with the book is that if they try something out of their comfort zone, even if they’re scared, give it a go because you never know how it could end up.”
Dogs Don't Dance is available to purchase now.
Gemma Atkinson's career so far:
From playing Lisa on Hollyoaks, to Carly on Emmerdale, and dazzling on the dance floor of Strictly Come Dancing, here's a look back at Gemma Atkinson's incredible career so far.
Hollyoaks (2001 - 2006)
Gemma Atkinson played the role of Lisa Hunter in Hollyoaks between 2001 and 2005. Gemma also appeared in its spin-off shows, Hollyoaks: After Hours, Hollyoaks: Let Loose and Hollyoaks: In the City, between 2004 and 2006. In 2002 Gemma was nominated for Best Actress at the Inside Soap Awards.
Hollyoaks: Let Loose (2005)
In 2005, Gemma Atkinson appeared in Hollyoaks: Let Loose, a spin-off series about Ben Davies and Lisa Hunter as they leave Hollyoaks for a new life.
Soapstar Superstar (2007)
Gemma appeared in Soapstar Superstar in 2007 and reached the last four. On the show she performed songs by P!nk, Kylie Minogue, Shania Twain and Sting.
Celebrity Weakest Link and Celebrity MasterChef (2006)
In 2006, Gemma took part in Celebrity Weakest Link along with Hollyoaks co-star Marcus Patric. The same year she also competed on Celebrity MasterChef against the likes of Midge Ure and Craig Revel Horwood, with Nadia Sawalha winning the series.
I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! (2007)
Gemma took part in I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! back in 2007, finishing the series in fifth place.
TV appearances (2008)
Gemma appeared on several TV shows in 2008 including Celebrity Mastermind, All Star Family Fortunes and Jack Osbourne's show Adrenaline Junkie. Gemma also made her computer game debut on Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3, playing the role of Lt. Eva McKenna, a character she reprised for the sequel, Command & Conquer Red Alert 3: Uprising.
Devil's Pass (2013)
In 2013, Gemma appeared as Denise Evers in the film Devil's Pass. The film was about a group of students, who visited the location of the Dyatlov pass incident, to make a documentary.
The Dyatlov pass incident was a real event where experienced hikers went missing in uncertain circumstances. That same year she also appeared in a remake of Night of the Living Dead.
Emmerdale (2015 - 2017)
For two years, Gemma played the role of Carly Hope in Emmerdale. In 2015, 2016 and 2017, Emmerdale won Best Soap at the Inside Soap Awards, and Gemma was also nominated for Sexiest Female in the 2016 Inside Soap Awards.
Started acting role in Fever (2016)
Gemma starred in the Indian suspense thriller Fever, starring alongside Caterina Murino and Ankita Makwana. As part of the Emmerdale cast, Gemma won Best Soap at the TV Choice Awards in 2016. The actress also became vice-patron of Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary in Lancashire.
Key 103 Breakfast Show (2017)
In 2017, Gemma Atkinson turned her talents to radio presenting and joined Mike Toolan on the Key 103 Breakfast Show (now Hits Radio). The pair presented the show until May 2018.
Gemma then carried on with the breakfast show on the newly-named Hits Radio until she went on leave to have her baby daughter in 2019.
Strictly Come Dancing (2017)
Gemma was partnered with Aljaž Škorjanec on the 2017 series of Strictly Come Dancing. Gemma and Aljaž ended the show as runner ups, narrowly missing out to Joe McFadden and Katya Jones. Gemma also met her future fiancé Gorka Marquez on the show.
Gemma Atkinson releases The Ultimate Body Plan book (2018)
Not only is Gemma a presenter and actor, but she is also an author. Gemma released a book of recipes and workout plans called The Ultimate Body Plan in 2018 and went on a book tour around England and Wales.
Gemma presents the drivetime show on Hits Radio (2020)
After having Mia, Gemma returned to radio to present the home time show on Hits Radio in 2020.
Gemma Atkinson reunited with Mike Toolan on Hits Radio (2022)
Gemma Atkinson and Mike Toolan were reunited on the radio in 2022. The pair now present the drivetime show on Hits Radio.
Gemma Atkinson releases The Ultimate Body Plan for New Mums book (2022)
After releasing her first book in 2018, Gemma followed it up with a second book in 2022 called The Ultimate Body Plan for New Mums based on her own experiences as a new mother getting back into exercising.
Gemma Atkinson returns to Hollyoaks (2022)
Fans were excited when Gemma returned to Hollyoaks in 2022, 16 years after leaving the show, calling it a 'trip down memory lane'. Reprising her role as Lisa Hunter, she was back on the soap for two episodes.
Teasing her character's return, Gemma said: 'She's only back for a short amount of time, but you all know in Hollyoaks you can do a lot of damage in a short time.'
Gemma Atkinson presents The Toddler Club (2022)
Gemma joined kids' TV show The Toddler Club on CBeebies as a presenter alongside Nigel Clarke in April 2022. She drew from her own experience as a mum and revealed that before joining the programme she: "Found comfort and reassurance watching programmes such as The Baby Club and The Toddler Club."
Gemma Atkinson releases Activewear range (2023)
In January 2023, Gemma released her Activewear range with In The Style. The range features leggings, half-zip tops, sports tops, joggers and more, in sizes 6 - 24.
Gemma Atkinson lands her own TV show with fiancé Gorka Marquez
Following the birth of their second child in July 2023, Gemma and her fiancé Gorka Marquez announced they'd landed their very own TV show called Gemma and Gorka: Life Behind the Lens. The three-part series, which aired on W and UKTV Play, provided viewers with an unfiltered look at their lives as they prepared to welcome their second child, as well as being working parents.
After a successful first series, it was announced in January 2024 that the show had been renewed for a second series, which began on Monday 6th May.
Gemma Atkinson announces new podcast The Overshare
Gemma Atkinson launches her new podcast The Overshare on 21st September. The Hits Radio presenter will be talking with listeners for the most jaw-dropping, tear-jerking stories and some proper laugh-out-loud moments.
Gemma Atkinson released first children's book Dogs Don't Dance
In February 2024, Gemma teamed up with illustrator Lisa Hunt to release her first ever children's book Dogs Don't Dance.
The book's description reads: 'This confidence-building picture book is all about trying new things, embracing difference, encouraging our friends and defying stereotypes. Dave the dog wants to dance, but the wise pooches at the park bark in shock.'
Gemma launches skincare brand gem&tonic
In November 2024 Gemma launched a new skincare brand, named gem&tonic. She's worked with a team of experts to created a series of products which 'hydrate, protect and revitalise' enriched with natural gemstones.
What is Gemma's podcast called?
Gemma's podcast The Overshare launched in September 2023, and sees Gemma chatting about all sorts of topics - as she describes it: 'Real stories, real emotions, and real connections coming your way! 🗣️💬'.
Speaking about her podcast, Gemma said: "I’m so excited to finally launch The Overshare! I’ve been a guest on many podcasts, so to now host my own and have the opportunity to sit and chat with the listeners, it's been great. Real people with real stories from the heartbreaking to the heartwarming. I know people will relate to the topics we’ve covered and I can’t wait for you all to hear it."
In the preview for her podcast she opened up about the different names she and Gorka had for their new baby, ultimately deciding on Thiago which is a Portuguese name.
When was Gemma on Strictly Come Dancing?
Gemma appeared on Strictly Come Dancing back in 2017, which saw actor Joe McFadden win the Glitterball Trophy. Gemma and her dance partner Aljaž Škorjanec were runners-up in the 15th series of the show.
This is also where Gemma met her fiancé Gorka Marquez. Despite not being paired with him, the two spent time together and hit it off!
Is Gemma Atkinson in Hollyoaks?
Gemma started her acting career on Hollyoaks playing the role of Lisa Hunter between 2001–2005. She returned to the show for some spin-offs including Hollyoaks: After Hours (2004), Hollyoaks: Let Loose (2005) and Hollyoaks: In the City (2006).
Is she back on Hollyoaks?
In March 2022, Gemma reprised her Hollyoaks role of Lisa Hunter for two episodes. Of her return, Gemma said: 'Short but sweet visit back to playing Lisa Hunter in @hollyoaksofficial What a trip down memory lane.
'So different, yet so familiar. 22 years ago my career started at this place, on this set, in the “Hunters” house. Forever Grateful for the wonderful memories, and for the fact there was no social media in those days.'
Can Gemma sing?
Yes, Gemma Atkinson can sing. The Hits Radio presenter took part in Soapstar Superstar in 2007, and performed Joan Jett's classic 'I Love Rock 'n' Roll' as well as songs by P!nk and Kylie Minogue. Gemma ended the second series of Soapstar Superstar in fifth place.
What year was Gemma Atkinson on I'm A Celebrity?
Gemma Atkinson was a contestant on I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here in 2007, placing 5th in the year that Christopher Biggins won.
Gemma's first book: The Ultimate Body Plan
Gemma released her first book The Ultimate Body Plan in 2018, a combination of 75 delicious recipes, plus a workout plan to help you towards a fitter, stronger, healthier body.
Gemma's second book: The Ultimate Body Plan for New Mums
Gem's next, The Ultimate Body Plan for New Mums, was released in April 2022. In the run up to the release Gemma shared some details, including what it feels like immediately after giving birth and some recipes to try.
Gemma's In The Style collections
In January 2023, Gemma launched her Activewear collection with In The Style. The range of clothes includes leggings, half-zip tops, sports tops, joggers and more, in sizes 6 - 24.
Then, in September 2023, Gemma released another collection with In The Style, for the Autumn. Gemma told her fans: 'We’ve included lots of versatile pieces into this range from sweats to knitted dresses to knitted jumpers to lounge sets and so much more! I love it 💫'.
Is Gemma on CBeebies?
In April 2022, Gemma Atkinson joined CBeebies show The Toddler Club as a presenter. Gemma said of joining the programme: "As a new mum, during the first lockdown I found comfort and reassurance watching programmes such as The Baby Club and The Toddler Club At Home, so for me to now be a host is such an honour.
"The show covers so many basics for us as parents and lets us know we’re not alone, every toddler is different and that’s ok. To be presenting a show that helps children develop and lets parents feel we’re all in the same boat is wonderful."
Who is Gemma Atkinson's partner?
Gemma is engaged to her partner Gorka Marquez, who is a professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing.
Check out Gemma and Gorka's relationship so far:
2017 - September: Gemma took part in Strictly Come Dancing
Gemma signed up to be a contestant on series 15 of Strictly Come Dancing in 2017. She was paired with professional dancer Aljaž Škorjanec.
2017 - September: Gorka appeared as a pro on Strictly Come Dancing
Gorka appeared for the second year as a professional on the 15th series of Strictly Come Dancing in 2017. He was paired with former X Factor winner Alexandra Burke.
2017 - September-December: Sparks flew behind the scenes at Strictly
Despite not being paired together on the show, Gemma and Gorka were hitting it off backstage at Strictly. Despite the pair shutting down dating rumours and insisting they were just good friends, the pair spent NYE together in December 2017, at the gym!
2018 - January: Gemma and Gorka head on the Strictly tour
Whilst touring the UK on the Strictly tour at the beginning of 2018, Gemma and Gorka were able to spend even more time together, enjoying a number of dates.
2018 - February: Gemma and Gorka confirm they are dating
On Valentine's Day in 2018, Gemma delighted her fans by confirming she was now officially dating the Spanish dancer! Gem posted this cute snap to her Instagram page alongside the caption: 'Here's to many more kid. Happy Valentines Day 😘'.
2018 - March: Gorka passes the dog test
Gemma introduced Gorka to her beloved pooches Norman and Ollie in March 2018, and he passed with flying colours! Sharing this snap to Instagram, Gem told fans: 'He passed the all important "but do Norman and Ollie like you?" Test (phew!) 😂 Welcome to the pack'. (sic)
2018 - July: Gemma and Gorka spend their first holiday together
Love birds Gemma and Gorka spent 10 days in Greece in July 2018, in what was the couple's first holiday abroad together. Gemma documented the trip on Instagram, telling fans: 'Had the best 10 days in Greece 🇬🇷 Gorgeous food, beautiful beaches and the best travel companion I could ask for @gorka_marquez I Love making fun memories with you, thanks for an Amazing holiday kid ❤️'. (sic)
2018 - December: Gorka introduces Gemma to Bilbao
Gemma travelled to Gorka's home town of Bilbao, Spain in December 2018. Whilst there, the couple visited Gorka's old school, local parks, and his mum's beach house.
2019 - February: Gemma and Gorka celebrate one year together
Gemma took to social media to share this cute picture of the pair as they celebrate one whole year as a couple! She wrote: 'This last year has flown by... but what a year it's been and man how far we've come 🥰'. (sic)
2019 - February: Gemma and Gorka announce they are expecting their first child
In early February 2019, Gemma announced the amazing news that she was pregnant with Gorka's baby! Sharing this snap of her two dogs, Gemma told fans: 'And what Amazing big brothers they will be! Myself & Gorks are beyond excited and happy and feel incredibly blessed to be meeting our new family member later this year. Baby Marquez!!! We love you loads already ❤️🤰 @gorka_marquez'. (sic)
2019 - July: Gemma and Gorka welcome their first child together
Gemma and Gorka became parents for the first time in July 2019, welcoming the adorable Mia Louise into the world. The proud parents shared this cute photo on Instagram to introduce her to the world.
2020 - February: Gemma and Gorka celebrate two years together
On the 5th February 2020, Gemma took to social media to share a gushing tribute to Gorka in celebration of the pair's two-year anniversary.
She wrote: '2 years ago today you asked me to "be your girlfriend" I'm glad I said yes ❤️ Thanks for everything Gorks. For being so kind and patient (even when I was mean whenever I was hungry during the last trimester) 😂 We've done a lot so far but there's so much more to come and I can't wait! I feel super lucky, loved and appreciated and it's because of you @gorka_marquez'. (sic)
2020 - March: Gemma and Gorka spend lockdown together
As the UK went into lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic, Gemma and Gorka spent valuable time together alongside their baby girl Mia.
Sharing her appreciation for the time they were able to spend together, Gem told fans: 'Since me and Gorks got together our whole relationship has technically been long distance. The first year living in separate cities followed by us moving in together but his tours and Strictly taking him away for weeks at a time. He was away on tour for 3wks when Mia was just 2 days old. I keep reminding myself of that in this lockdown. Although the circumstances aren't great for anyone, we're never going to get this length of time together in one go again. Ever. We're making the most of it and yes its kind of annoying when he watches Spanish news really loud because they talk SO fast 😂 but I'm glad that he's my "cell mate" in all of this. I wouldn't be locked down with anyone else ❤️'. (sic)
2021 - February: Gemma and Gorka celebrate three years together
Gemma and Gorka celebrated their three-year anniversary on 5th February 2021. Gem posted this cute photo to her Instagram page.
2021 - February: Gemma and Gorka announce their engagement
Just one week after their three-year anniversary, Gorka proposed to Gemma on Valentine's Day in 2021! Gem shared this photo to show off her stunning engagement ring, writing: 'Valentine's forever... Of course I said yes ❤️'. (sic)
2021 - December: Gorka gushes about Gemma
Gorka pulled at heartstrings at the end of 2021 as he spoke about his relationship with Gemma during an interview. He said: "I met Gemma in 2017. She didn't dance with me, she danced with Aljaž.
"We just became very good mates and I think that was the key because we were friends before everything happened.
"Now we have a beautiful daughter. Without Strictly I would never have met Gemma. I think she's the best person in the world. She inspires me every day."
2022 - February: Gemma and Gorka celebrate four years together
Another year, another soppy anniversary post! On 5th February 2022, Gemma shared a cute video of her time with Gorka, writing: '4 years. You lucky sod 😜'. (sic)
2022 - April: Gemma and Gorka take Mia on her first holiday
Sharing this super cute photo to her Instagram page alongside Mia, Gemma revealed the couple were buzzing to be able to take their daughter on her first holiday.
She told fans: 'For Mias first holiday we came back to the exact place we visited while she was still in my belly. Tenerife will always be special for us. I was lucky enough to holiday here every year as a child. It was the first holiday me & Gorks had together, the last place we came before I gave birth and now Mia gets to experience it just like I did growing up. More memories made on a wonderful island✌🏻🌴 🌞'. (sic)
2022 - September: Gemma shows her support for Gorka on Strictly
During the 2022 series of Strictly Come Dancing, Gemma publicly showed her support for Gorka and his celeb partner, Helen Skelton. Sharing this snap of the pair on the dancefloor, Gem wrote: 'C'mon!!! 🙌🏼 Go out there and shine Helen! 🌟 You're gonna have the most Amazing time on Strictly! Will be rooting for you both 👏🏼'. (sic)
2022 - December: Gemma and Gorka visit Bilbao with Mia
The couple visited Gorka's hometown of Bilbao during the festive period in 2022, with their daughter Mia alongside them.
2023 - January: Gemma and Gorka announce they are expecting second child
In mid-January 2023, Gemma delighted her fans by announcing she was pregnant with the couple's second baby!
Gem shared a number of cute photos alongside Gorka and Mia, revealing they were expecting a boy! She said: 'Impossible to hide my belly any longer. I've officially "popped." 😂 Our baby boy will be joining our family later this year 💙We feel so incredibly blessed and Grateful to be on this journey again. Mia is absolutely thrilled! Although we may need to do some negotiating on names, as so far she's adamant he's going to be called Barbie. 😂💙'. (sic)
2023 - July: Gemma and Gorka welcome their second child
On 19th July 2023, Gemma informed her Instagram followers that she'd given birth to the couple's second child, a healthy baby boy!
She wrote: 'Little man is here! He arrived safe and sound and he's utterly wonderful. Mia is already the mother hen we expected her to be. We're all home together soaking up this lovely little bubble before Gorks has to leave for Strictly rehearsals next week. Thank you for the lovely well wishes. Our family is complete'.
2023 - July: Gemma and Gorka introduce their son to the world
Just days after announcing his birth, Gemma took to Instagram to share the first photo of her son, revealing he's called Thiago Thomas Marquez.
2023 - August: Gemma and Gorka land their very own TV show
Gemma and Gorka confirmed they'd landed their own documentary called Gemma and Gorka: Life Behind the Lens, providing an unfiltered look at their lives as they prepared to welcome their second child, as well as being working parents. The three-part series aired on W and UKTV Play from 30th August.
In January 2024, news was confirmed the show had been renewed for a second series, airing in 2024.
2023 - September: Gemma pays tribute to Gorka for his birthday
One day before Gorka's 33rd birthday on 4th September, Gemma shared this adorable family snap paying tribute to the birthday boy. She wrote: 'It isn't until tomorrow, but you'll be back in rehearsals so we celebrated early! Happy (almost) Birthday @gorka_marquez It's funny the only Birthday of yours we've actually spent together was 2017 when we were both rehearsing 😂 We love you so much and are so proud of you! Keep being, young, foolish and happy ❤️😊 And thanks for eating the part of your cake that Mia put her knee in after crawling around a kids play area all morning 🤦🏼♀️'. (sic)
2023 - November: Gorka pays tribute to Gemma for her birthday
Repaying the tribute in November, Gorka shared the most beautiful tribute to Gemma as she celebrated her 39th birthday. He wrote: '39 years in this planet and the las 6 i was lucky to be by your side, full of laughs and the best memories… Thanks for being the best mummy and fiancee and thank you for everything you do for us! and for always make us laugh out loud😂We love you mummy ❤️'. (sic)
2023 - December: Gemma and Gorka enjoy Christmas as a family of 4
Gemma and Gorka enjoyed their first Christmas as a family of four in 2023, spending quality time with their children Mia and Thiago! Gorka posted this adorable photo, thanking Santa for Mia's face paints!
2024 - January: Gemma shuts down split rumours
Following a number of rumours in the press that Gemma and Gorka were going through a 'rough patch' in their relationship, Gem took to her Instagram to reply to fan to reveal the stories were completely untrue, admitting they were totally smitten.
2024 - February: Gemma and Gorka celebrate 6 years together
On Monday 5th February, Gemma and Gorka celebrated their six-year anniversary! The pair both posted cute tributes to each other on social media, expressing their love and gratitude for each other.
2024 - February: Gorka shares funny photos to celebrate Valentine's Day
To celebrate Valentine's Day on 14th February 2024, Gorka showed his playful side by sharing a number of hilarious photos alongside Gem. He captioned the snaps with: Happy Valentine's ❤️@glouiseatkinson. Last pic is my favourite 🤪'. (sic)
2023 - May: Gemma and Gorka: Life Behind the Lens series two
Following a successful first series, Gemma and Gorka: Life Behind the Lens was renewed for a second series, starting on Monday 6th May 2024.
2024 - The couple celebrate Thiago's first birthday
On 17th July 2024, Gemma shared an adorable Instagram Reel to celebrate her and Gorka's son Thiago's first birthday! The video showed footage from the moment they brought little Thiago home, with sweet clips from the whole year to follow. In the joint post, Gemma and Gorka wrote: 'A whole year of loving you 💙
'Thiago Thomas, what would we do without you. Such a happy, loving, cheeky and curious bundle of joy. You make us smile every single day and you couldn't be more loved. Thank you for allowing me to become a mum again. I never thought id be lucky enough to have two beautiful children. You and your sister are the perfect duo. I can't wait to see you grow together and whiteness the shenanigans you both get up to 😂
'Happy Birthday darling boy! We love you 💙'. (sic)
How did Gemma meet her fiancé Gorka Marquez?
Gemma Atkinson met her fiancé Gorka Marquez on Strictly Come Dancing, when she was a contestant and he was a professional dancer. Despite not being paired together on the show, the couple immediately hit it off, with Gemma and Gorka later announcing their relationship.
In an interview with Lorraine back in January 2019, Gemma said: "He makes me so happy, he really does. I've been on my own for around three years, and now I'm living with Gorka. We both cook but with him being Spanish he's just better at cooking. He's the chef in the house and he's nice and tidy. It's like living with your best mate."
Gorka later revealed in another interview on the show: "Thanks to the Strictly tour, I got the chance to spend more time with her and get to know each other better. We are very happy."
When did Gemma and Gorka get engaged?
Gemma and partner Gorka got engaged on Valentine's Day 2021. Gemma shared the news on Instagram. She wrote: ‘Valentine’s forever... Of course I said yes', with Gorka sharing an identical snap with the line: 'The best day with my forever Valentine’s. I asked and she said YES!!!!!! Happy Valentine’s Day everyone.'
Is Gemma Atkinson pregnant?
Not anymore! Gemma revealed to fans that she and fiancé Gorka were expecting their second baby in a sweet Instagram post on 22nd January 2023. Sharing a few black and white snaps of herself, Gorka and their daughter Mia, she revealed the couple were expecting a little boy.
She wrote: 'Impossible to hide my belly any longer. I’ve officially “popped.” 😂 Our baby boy will be joining our family later this year 💙
'We feel so incredibly blessed and Grateful to be on this journey again. Mia is absolutely thrilled! Although we may need to do some negotiating on names, as so far she’s adamant he’s going to be called Barbie. 😂💙'.
How many children does Gemma have?
She has two! Gemma and Gorka welcomed their first child in 2019. She announced the news that they were expecting for the first time in February 2019 with her late dogs Norman and Ollie getting involved in the announcement.
In the post, Gemma wrote: 'And what Amazing big brothers they will be! Myself & Gorks are beyond excited and happy and feel incredibly blessed to be meeting our new family member later this year. Baby Marquez!!! We love you loads already ❤️🤰 @gorka_marquez'. (sic)
After announcing she was expecting her second child in January 2023, Gemma confirmed she'd given birth to a baby boy in July 2023.
Taking to her Instagram Story, she wrote: 'Little man is here! He arrived safe and sound and he's utterly wonderful. Mia is already the mother hen we expected her to be. We're all home together soaking up this lovely little bubble before Gorks has to leave for Strictly rehearsals next week. Thank you for the lovely well wishes. Our family is complete'. (Sic)
A few days later, Gemma introduced her son to the world, revealing he is called Thiago Thomas Marquez.
A year later, Gemma shared an adorable Reel to her fans, celebrating little Thiago's first birthday. Showing clips from the day she and Gorka brought their son home, as well as sweet moments from the year that followed, they wrote: 'A whole year of loving you 💙
'Thiago Thomas, what would we do without you. Such a happy, loving, cheeky and curious bundle of joy. You make us smile every single day and you couldn’t be more loved. Thank you for allowing me to become a mum again. I never thought id be lucky enough to have two beautiful children. You and your sister are the perfect duo. I can’t wait to see you grow together and whiteness the shenanigans you both get up to 😂
'Happy Birthday darling boy! We love you 💙'. (sic)
Gemma and Gorka's daughter
Gemma had a little girl called Mia Louise Marquez on 4th July 2019. She wrote on Instagram: 'And just like that, we’re a three! Our beautiful baby daughter arrived on Thursday 4th July and myself and Gorks couldn’t be happier 💗💗💗 She's incredible and she certainly made an entrance, giving us all quite a fright at times! Little Miss independent already!
'Thank you SO much to the nurses & doctors at The Royal Bolton Hospital who did the most incredible job taking care of myself and my baby. You’re all so wonderful and I’m so grateful to have had you all with me and to have been under your care these past 4 days 🙏 Back home now for family time and to introduce little lady to her big brothers Norman & Ollie.... Let the next life chapter begin @gorka_marquez 🤱🐶🐶❤'. (sic)
The couple revealed the first photo of Mia to their fans on Instagram a couple of weeks later and she now regularly features on Gemma's Instagram.
How many dogs does Gemma Atkinson have?
Gemma had two cute spaniels called Norman and Ollie. Sadly, Norman passed away in June 2024, and Gemma shared a heartbreaking post on her Instagram page to pay tribute to him, uploading a beautiful video collage of her pooch with the statement: 'My beautiful boy Norman has passed away.
'My heart is broken 😞 12 years ago I made a promise to him that i would always take care of him and never allow him be in pain or to suffer. Had I put off making the hardest decision of my life any longer I would have broken that promise. It’s hard to put into words how much Norman changed my life and made it so much better Simply by just being there.
'Throughout the good & bad experiences the last 12 years he’s been there with Ollie making everything ok. My most favourite weekends were spent having long walks exploring together, then home lay in bed cosy with them both watching a film while they snored away peacefully. I think I’ll miss that the most…That and the fact Norm was always the only one in the whole house to get up and come downstairs with me in the mornings no matter how early it was.
'My 5am club won’t be the same without his company. He was my first experience of being a mum and having someone other than myself to care for. He’s taught me a lot. Mainly to always live in the moment, remain positive and to keep trying. He never stopped trying to just get up and please me. Even at the end.
'He was the most gentle and caring soul combined with fierce love and loyalty to his family, his pack. I believe he was always meant to be my dog. I feel so sad for Ollie who’s now wondering where Norman is 😔 Smelling him but not being able to see or play with him will be confusing.
'I’ve read that dogs too notice the absence of other dogs, and i know he’s just as sad as I am. And of course I’m beyond sad for Mia. Normans woken her up by going into her room and pinching her Snuggie almost everyday of her life. She’s never known him or Ollie to not be here. Her first best friend. And so close to her 5th Birthday 😔
'They say the sadness we feel when we lose a loved one is the price we pay for loving them so much, and boy did i love you Norman. In all these years the only time you’ve broken my heart is today, when yours stopped beating. I’m going to love you, miss you and remember you forever. Until we meet again Norman… Go and run again and have some fun up there with my dad. You’re such a good boy ❤️ 🐾 🐾.' (sic)
Just months later in December 2024, Gemma shared the awful news that 14-year-old Ollie had went over the Rainbow bridge.
Sharing a video montage of Ollie on Instagram, Gemma wrote: 'Sleep well beautiful Ollie. The most gentle, affectionate and loving soul. We knew deep down after Norman you wouldn’t wait long because you were inseparable and I know how much you must have missed him.
'The loyalty, love and companionship of 2 dogs for 14 years. How lucky I am to have had that. Before Gorka, Mia & Tio it was just us, spending many a weekend in bed with a movie after a long walk exploring. And when our family expanded you shared your love and loyalty without hesitation, because that’s what dogs do.
'The sadness of losing you both so close together is a lot, but I know you’re both somewhere running free in long grass or on a beach chasing the tide care free, pain free and happy. That’s what I’m taking comfort in right now.
'I’ll remember you for the rest of my life. Norman and Ollie. My 2 best boys. Reunited. ❤️❤️'. (sic)
Is Gemma Atkinson on Instagram?
Yes, Gemma is on Instagram as well as other social networks, and she regularly posts photos of her home life with fiancé Gorka Marquez and little daughter Mia.
In March 2022, Gemma posted some super cute Instagram Stories showing a photo of some letters she wrote when she was 12-years-old. Reading a letter to her fans she said: "Dear Clive, my uncle Clive, thank you very much for your card. P.s. here's an autograph before I become famous and don't forget about you." Exclaiming, she said: "I genuinely signed it!"
Gemma Atkinson regularly posts about her home life, and opened up about the reality of a photoshoot. The former actress took to Instagram to post two pics showing how clever cropping can make it look like she has bare legs saying: ''#tb Photo shoot reality… “are you seeing my full leg?” No. “Fab, shoot like this then it’s freezing” 📸 😂'.
She went on to say: 'Amazing makeup artist, good lighting & great photographers and remind everyone that without them, I’m a tired a-- mum who needs help on the daily 😂.'
Gemma Atkinson on social media
Gemma Atkinson regularly keeps her fans updated on social media.
Follow Gemma on Twitter @MissGAtkinson
Follow Gemma on Instagram @glouiseatkinson
Like Gemma's page on Facebook @GemmaAtkinsonOfficial
You can follow Gemma and Gorka's adventures on YouTube.