Gemma Atkinson has finally made her return to Hollyoaks - 22 years after making her debut in the Channel 4 soap. It was announced back in November that the Bury actress would be reprising her role as Lisa Hunter having first appeared in the part in 2001.
Gemma, who has also appeared in ITV soap Emmerdale, was part of the much-loved Hunter family in the Channel 4 soap and played the role until 2005, tackling a number of high-profile storylines that included bullying and self-harm.
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And 16 years since her last appearance in the fictional Chester village, the 37-year-old strolled back onto screens like no time had passed on Tuesday night during E4's first look episode with the episode also airing on Channel 4 on Wednesday.
And the soap's fans were quick to comment on her comeback.
@mrcjbrowneyes87 tweeted: "What a major blast from the past! Lisa Hunter! Hunter family was the first family I remember on #Hollyoaks from waaaaaay back in the day."
"Lisa Hunter is back #Hollyoaks," @mishybabez_ wrote alongside a string of love heart eye emojis.
@Racheewheels commented: "So excited to see Lisa again!"
"Lisa! Long time no see! #hollyoaks," @carlagodfrey added.
@cumiskey55 shared: "Lisa Hunter ( Gemma Atkinson) hasn’t aged a single day. She looks amazing. #Hollyoaks."
"Lisa! #Hollyoaks I suddenly feel very old," @JosieOM08 also commented.
Appearing on Hollyoaks' Instagram page, Gemma was seen talking to the camera and saying: "22 years ago my life changed drastically because of a soap called Hollyoaks and a character called Lisa Hunter...
"And now, 22 years later she's back, but what is she up to I wonder? She'll be back for a short amount of time but you all know in Hollyoaks, you can do a lot of damage in a short amount of time."
Gemma ended the video by teasing fans: "So, find out soon."
The mum-of-one filmed her scenes for her special guest appearance last year and Hollyoaks has previously teased: "Since leaving Chester Lisa has found love with her activist boyfriend in Thailand, which is where she connected with old school friend Zara. But is there an ulterior motive behind her surprise visit?"
But some details about the storyline have been revealed. Her comeback is part of a new storyline former foe and later best friend Zara Morgan as she goes head-to-head with Hollyoaks legend Tony Hutchinson for a position on the local council. However, it doesn't run smoothly as Lisa's arrival, with her boyfriend Dylan in tow, threatens to derail Zara's plan to become a councillor with revelations about her time in Thailand.
Later, as she bumps into Lisa in the village after ignoring her calls, the returnee tells her that she 'has an offer' for her.
