Gemma Clare Collins, born on January 31, 1981, in Romford, East London, is an English media personality, businesswoman, and reality TV star.
Rising to fame through the ITV reality series The Only Way Is Essex (TOWIE), Collins has since built a multi-faceted career, appearing on numerous reality shows, launching successful businesses, and becoming a prominent advocate for body positivity.
However, with an estimated net worth of $8.3 million, Collins continues to captivate audiences with her larger-than-life personality and entrepreneurial ventures.
Early Life and Family Background
Gemma Collins was born at Oldchurch Hospital in Romford to Joan Collins, a part-time hairdresser, and Alan Collins, a shipping company director.
She has an older brother, Russell, who later became a director in their father’s company.
Raised in Rise Park, Essex, Gemma described her upbringing as filled with love despite financial challenges.
Collins displayed an early passion for performing arts. She attended the Frances Bardsley Academy for Girls before transferring to Sylvia Young Theatre School at age 14.
Her love for acting led her to a role in The Sound of Music.
However, her outspoken and confident nature resulted in bullying, prompting her parents to enroll her at Raphael Independent School for her final year of education.
Despite leaving school at 16 with a U grade in GCSE Maths, Collins pursued various jobs, including working in retail, hospitality, and recruitment.
Her early experiences in sales and customer service laid the foundation for her future entrepreneurial success.
Career
Reality TV Success
Gemma Collins made her reality TV debut in 2011 as part of the cast of The Only Way Is Essex.
Her candid personality and memorable catchphrases quickly made her a fan favorite, earning her the nickname “The GC.”
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Collins appeared on the show until 2019, using the platform to launch her career in television and fashion.
She participated in several other reality programs, including:
– I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! (2014)
– Celebrity Big Brother (2016)
– Dancing on Ice (2019)
– Celebs Go Dating (2018)
In 2018, she began her own reality series, Gemma Collins: Diva, which showcased her personal life and career milestones.
Stage and Theater Work
In 2022, Collins launched The GC’s Big Night Out, a live theater tour featuring performances, interviews, and audience Q&A sessions.
She also landed the role of Matron “Mama” Morton in the UK tour of the musical Chicago, though a knee injury forced her to withdraw.
Podcast and Media Presence
Collins expanded her media footprint with The Gemma Collins Podcast and The Gemma Collins Love Lounge on BBC Sounds, where she discusses relationships, self-confidence, and lifestyle topics.
Business Ventures
Collins leveraged her fame to establish a successful business empire:
– Fashion: She launched her first plus-size clothing line in 2012, followed by partnerships with Simply Be and Boohoo.com. She also opened physical boutiques in Brentwood.
– Cosmetics: In 2019, Collins introduced her perfume, Diva Pink, along with lipstick and eyelash lines.
– Skincare and Supplements: In 2021, she collaborated with The London Aesthetics Company to release the GemmaCollagen skincare and supplement range.
– Merchandise: During the COVID-19 pandemic, Collins sold branded face masks, hand sanitizers, and loungewear.
Personal Life
Relationships
Collins’ love life has often made headlines.
She dated several celebrities, including James Argent and Charlie King, and has had an on-and-off relationship with businessman Rami Hawash.
The couple first got engaged in 2013 but broke up shortly after.
They rekindled their romance in 2021, and Collins confirmed they were engaged again in December 2021.
Collins is also a stepmother to Hawash’s son from a previous relationship and has openly expressed her desire to have children.
Interests and Lifestyle
Collins resides in Roxwell, Chelmsford, in a luxurious barn conversion she purchased for £1.35 million.
She enjoys gardening, animals, and interior design, adorning her home with sculptures and themed decor.
Collins is an advocate for mental health awareness and has spoken about her struggles with anxiety and body image issues.
Her documentary Gemma Collins: Self-Harm & Me sheds light on these topics.
Awards and Achievements
Collins has received several accolades, including:
– Reality Personality of the Year for The Only Way Is Essex
– Best Female Personality for Gemma Collins: Diva on Lockdown and Self-Harm & Me
Net Worth
Estimated net worth of $8.3 million, Collins has earned her fortune through television, fashion, cosmetics, and endorsements.
Her income also stems from public appearances, theater tours, and merchandise sales.
Filmography
Television Shows:
– The Only Way Is Essex (2011–2019)
– I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! (2014)
– Celebrity Big Brother (2016)
– Dancing on Ice (2019)
– Celebs Go Dating (2018)
– Gemma Collins: Diva (2018–2020)
Stage Performances:
– The GC’s Big Night Out (2022)
– Chicago (2022, withdrawn due to injury)
Conclusion
Gemma Collins has established herself as a multifaceted media personality and entrepreneur.
From her reality TV beginnings to launching fashion lines and starring in theater productions, Collins has consistently expanded her career.
She is known for her confidence, humor, and resilience, she continues to inspire fans worldwide.
Her journey highlights her determination to succeed in the entertainment industry while embracing her authentic self.
Whether she’s dazzling audiences on stage, hosting podcasts, or managing her business empire, Gemma Collins remains an enduring and influential figure in British media.