Gemma Atkinson is a British actress, television and radio personality, author, model, and fitness influencer whose multi-faceted career has made her a notable figure in British entertainment. Born in Greater Manchester, she has transitioned from acting and modelling into successful ventures in radio, reality TV, fitness, and family life, making headlines for both her professional milestones and personal stories.
Early Life and Family
Gemma Louise Atkinson was born on November 16, 1984, in Bury, Greater Manchester, England. Her father, David Atkinson, was Scottish, hailing from Dumfries. Gemma attended Castlebrook High School in Bury, completing her GCSEs before being drawn into modelling and acting.
Gemma’s family life came further into the public eye after she began a relationship with Spanish dancer Gorka Márquez, whom she met during her stint on Strictly Come Dancing in 2017. The couple became parents to daughter Mia Louise Márquez (born July 2019) and son Thiago Thomas Márquez (born July 2023), and her honest portrayals of motherhood have won her widespread appreciation.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | Estimated $4 million (approx. £3.1 million) |
| Earnings | Annual income $195,000 – $267,200; monthly estimated $16,600 – $22,700 |
| Family | Partner: Gorka Márquez (professional dancer) |
| Children | Daughter Mia (born July 2019), son Thiago (born July 2023) |
| Parents | Father: David Atkinson (Scottish, deceased); Mother: Details private |
| Career Highlights | |
| Soap Operas | Lisa Hunter in “Hollyoaks” (2001–2005, 2022, + spin-offs), Carly Hope in “Emmerdale” (2015–2017) |
| Reality TV | Finalist on “Strictly Come Dancing” (2017, met Gorka Márquez), “I’m a Celebrity…” (2007) |
| Presenter | Daughter Mia (born July 2019), Son Thiago (born July 2023) |
| Author | “The Ultimate Body Plan” (2018, fitness/wellness book) |
| Fitness | Public fitness enthusiast and influencer |
| Other Work | Voice roles in video games “Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3” (2008, 2009); animal charity patron |
Career Highlights
Acting and Modelling
Gemma began her career as a photographic model, appearing in leading publications such as FHM, Maxim, Loaded, Nuts, and Zoo Weekly. Her breakthrough came with the role of Lisa Hunter on the popular British soap opera Hollyoaks (2001–2005, reprised in 2022). She also starred in spin-offs, including Hollyoaks: After Hours, Hollyoaks: Let Loose, and Hollyoaks: In the City.
Her acting credits expanded with major roles in Casualty as Tamzin Bayle, Emmerdale as Carly Hope, and appearances in The Bill and Waterloo Road. Gemma also participated in reality TV shows such as Soapstar Superstar, Celebrity MasterChef, and I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!, and Strictly Come Dancing, where she was runner-up in 2017.
She has featured in films like Devil’s Pass, Boogie Woogie, 13Hrs, Fever, and Night of the Living as well as in video games (Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3).
Radio, Presenting, and Fitness
Gemma became a prominent radio presenter for the Hits Radio Network, hosting the drive time slot and previously co-presenting Key 103 Breakfast. Her fitness journey led her to release her book “The Ultimate Body Plan”, which offers exercise and meal strategies, and she’s known for daily training and boxing.
Advocacy and Patronage
Her love for animals shows in her vice-patron role at Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary. She is also recognised for openly discussing parenting, fitness, and mental well-being in interviews and social posts.
Net Worth and Income
Gemma Atkinson’s estimated net worth stands at around $4 million as of 2025, with annual earnings from brand sponsorships, radio, TV, books, social media, and public appearances contributing to her wealth. Detailed analytics show annual income ranging from about $195,000 to $267,000 across all revenue streams, stemming especially from her audience of over 2 million Instagram followers.
Personal Life and Relationships
Gemma’s relationship with Gorka Márquez has garnered significant media interest since their meeting on Strictly Come Dancing. Their life together is chronicled in the reality series “Gemma and Gorka: Life Behind the Lens”. The couple has two children and maintains a candid approach to family challenges, work-life balance, and managing public attention.
Pets play a major role. Gemma recently shared heartfelt updates about her dogs, Norman (who sadly passed away in 2024) and Ollie, reflecting the deep affection she has for animals.
Controversies and Criticism
Like many public personalities, Gemma has experienced controversy. In October 2024, she faced criticism after seeming to admit on Instagram that she pinched her son as punishment, a statement she later clarified as not literal. She addressed the issue directly, emphasising she never hurt her child and that comments were misinterpreted. Gemma has also faced online trolls and public scrutiny regarding personal choices, including physical appearance after giving birth and rumours about her relationship.
Recent News and Updates
Gemma continues to be active in radio, TV, and social media, sharing family milestones, fitness advice, and occasionally engaging with trending topics. She and Gorka have discussed the challenges of parenting and the joy of their “lovely dynamic,” stating they do not plan to have more children. Her recent posts highlight family time, professional wins, and bittersweet moments, such as dealing with the health of her pets.
FAQs about Gemma Atkinson
Who is Gemma Atkinson?
Gemma Atkinson is an English actress, model, radio presenter, fitness author, and influencer best known for Hollyoaks, Emmerdale, Strictly Come Dancing, and her work in radio.
What is Gemma Atkinson’s net worth?
Her net worth is estimated at $4 million as of 2025.
Who is Gemma Atkinson’s partner, and does she have children?
She is engaged to Gorka Márquez, a professional dancer. They have two children: Mia Louise and Thiago Thomas.
What fitness programs does Gemma Atkinson promote?
Gemma is passionate about fitness, sharing routines via her book “The Ultimate Body Plan,” social media, and public appearances.
What controversies has Gemma Atkinson faced?
In October 2024, she faced criticism for a social media post seemingly condoning pinching as punishment, which she later clarified. She also engages with trolls about her personal life and body image.
What are Gemma Atkinson’s latest projects?
Gemma currently stars on Gemma and Gorka: Life Behind the Lens and continues presenting the Hits Radio drive-time show.
How has Gemma Atkinson handled online criticism?
She responds openly to criticism, addressing misconceptions in the media and advocating for positivity and self-confidence.
What are Gemma Atkinson’s main sources of income?
Acting, radio work, sponsorships, social media, book royalties, and TV reality projects contribute to her earnings
