Jennifer Metcalfe – Born in 1983, Hollyoaks
Jennifer Metcalfe rose to fame as Mercedes McQueen in the British soap opera “Hollyoaks,” a character she began portraying in 2006. Her portrayal of Mercedes, a complex woman navigating through love, loss, and betrayal, captivated audiences and critics alike, earning her critical acclaim and several British Soap Awards nominations.
Jennifer’s talent and charisma have not only made Mercedes an iconic character but have also showcased her range as an actress. Beyond “Hollyoaks,” she has appeared in “Where the Heart Is” and “Dancing on Ice,” demonstrating her versatility. Jennifer continues to thrive in her career, maintaining the captivating presence that first made her a star.
Gemma Atkinson – Born in 1984, Hollyoaks
Gemma Atkinson burst onto the scene as Lisa Hunter in “Hollyoaks” back in 2001, quickly capturing viewers’ attention with her compelling performances in storylines tackling issues such as bullying and mental health. Her career flourished beyond “Hollyoaks,” with Gemma taking on roles in both British television, like “Casualty,” and international cinema, notably in the Bollywood film “Fever.”
Her talent and versatility were further showcased in 2017 when she reached the finals of “Strictly Come Dancing,” underscoring her diverse skill set. Gemma has evolved into a respected advocate for health and fitness, a passion that complements her vibrant career in entertainment.
Gemma Merna – Born in 1984, Hollyoaks
Gemma Merna catapulted to fame for her portrayal of Carmel McQueen in the hit British soap opera “Hollyoaks” from 2006 to 2014. Her character, beloved for her comedic timing and heartwarming depth, earned Gemma critical acclaim, including winning Best Comedy Performance at the British Soap Awards in 2007.
Gemma has appeared on various reality shows, further showcasing her versatility as an entertainer. Since then, she has transitioned into a career as a yoga instructor, applying the same dedication to wellness as she did to her acting. Despite her career shift, Gemma’s radiant personality and commitment to her craft remain evident, preserving her status as a cherished figure in British entertainment.
Georgia May Foote – Born in 1991, Coronation Street
Georgia May Foote gained widespread recognition for her role as Katy Armstrong in the beloved British soap opera “Coronation Street,” a part she played from 2010 to 2015. Her portrayal of Katy, a character facing life’s ups and downs with resilience, garnered her critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase.
Georgia’s talent shone brightly on “Coronation Street,” leading to further opportunities, including a standout performance on “Strictly Come Dancing” in 2015, where she reached the finals. Georgia still stars in stage productions and television dramas, showcasing her range and depth as an actress. Georgia has also expressed a keen interest in directing off-screen.
Gillian Taylforth – Born in 1955, EastEnders
Gillian Taylforth gained fame in the 1980s as Kathy Beale on the iconic British soap opera “EastEnders,” a role that quickly established her as a staple in British television. Her portrayal of Kathy earned her critical acclaim and a place in the hearts of viewers.
Gillian’s enduring presence on television makes her a beloved figure among audiences. Over the years, her career extended beyond “EastEnders” to include roles in “Footballers’ Wives” and “The Bill,” showcasing her versatility as an actress. She remains a respected figure in the industry, known for her ability to bring depth and authenticity to her characters.
Helen Flanagan – Born in 1990, Coronation Street
Helen Flanagan is widely recognized for her role as Rosie Webster in “Coronation Street,” a part she played starting in 2000. Her portrayal of Rosie was well-received, contributing significantly to her career’s foundation in British television. In addition to her acting career, Helen has made notable appearances on reality TV, including a memorable stint on “I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!” in 2012.
Helen has successfully ventured into the fashion and beauty industries, leveraging her platform to establish a brand that resonates with her values. Her transition from acting to entrepreneurship highlights a keen sense of business acumen alongside her creative talents.
Jacqueline Jossa – Born in 1992, EastEnders
Jacqueline Jossa is best known for her role as Lauren Branning in the BBC soap opera “EastEnders,” a character she portrayed from 2010 until 2018. Her performance in the show won her the National Television Award in the Best Newcomer category in 2012. Jacqueline has a deep passion for theater, where she honed her acting skills before making it on television.
Besides soap operas, Jacqueline has explored other facets of the entertainment industry, including winning “I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!” in 2019, showcasing her versatility and resilience. She has furthered her career with ventures into fashion, launching her clothing range.
Barry Sloane – Born in 1981, Hollyoaks
Recognized for his role as Niall Rafferty in the British soap opera “Hollyoaks,” actor Barry Sloane is known for his compelling portrayal of a complex character that caught the attention of audiences and critics alike. His career took a significant turn towards international recognition with roles in acclaimed TV series such as “Revenge,” where he played Aiden Mathis and “Six.”
Barry has since expanded his acting repertoire, including stage performances and leading roles in both television and film. Aside from acting, he is a talented guitarist and singer, often sharing his musical talents through various platforms. He truly is a multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry.
Ben Hardy – Born in 1991, EastEnders
Ben Hardy was cast as Peter Beale on the iconic British soap opera “EastEnders” from 2013 to 2015, which set the stage for his international acting career. Following his departure from the soap, Ben transitioned to film, showcasing his versatility in roles such as Archangel in “X-Men: Apocalypse” and Roger Taylor in the critically acclaimed “Bohemian Rhapsody.” His portrayal of the Queen drummer was particularly well-received, contributing to the film’s global success.
Ben has continued to expand his filmography with diverse roles across genres. He is a method actor, often immersing himself deeply into his characters to deliver authentic performances, a testament to his commitment to his craft.
