Coronation Street Gemma actress’ life from romances to meaning behind ‘unusual’ real name
Coronation Street Gemma actress’ life from romances to meaning behind ‘unusual’ real name
Gemma Winter-Brown is a beloved character on Coronation Street, but what do we know about actress Dolly-Rose Campbell’s life off the famous cobbles?
Dolly catapulted to stardom portraying Gemma on the soap in 2014, arriving as Kylie Platt’s (Paula Lane) mate – and she quickly won over viewers.
As the charming Rovers barmaid, Gemma has also been embroiled in numerous major plotlines during her 12-year tenure, reports the Daily Star.
From tying the knot with Chesney Brown (Sam Aston) and welcoming quadruplets to the heartbreaking demise of her brother Paul (Peter Ash) last year, Gemma’s stint in Weatherfield has been anything but dull. So, let’s delve into actress Dolly-Rose’s life beyond the street.
Coronation Street airs ‘dark and upsetting’ scenes as abuse plot spirals
GMB’s Susanna Reid shuts down royal author over Meghan Markle ‘brainwashing’ claims
The meaning behind Dolly’s name
She joined the soap several years ago
Dolly was born in Salford, Greater Manchester on 12 April 1987. And it appears there’s a touching story behind her “unusual” name.
During an appearance on the Long Story Short with Jill Scott and Karen Carney podcast last year, Dolly revealed: “I was very small when I was born, and my aunty Rose delivered me so that’s where it’s from; Dolly-Rose”
Dolly’s romantic life
Dolly has become a firm favourite playing Gemma
Dolly tends to maintain privacy regarding her love life, however, in 2019 she publicly identified as bisexual. She expressed gratitude to Manchester Pride for aiding her in accepting her sexuality.
“I have been coming to pride for over a decade now,” she shared with the Daily Star. “The love and acceptance shown by the people of Manchester allowed me to accept my bisexuality and be proud of who I am.”
The gifted performer continued: “Manchester’s LGBTQ+ community and beyond makes a huge difference to so many people’s lives.”
Dolly also revealed that throughout her own journey, she has received unwavering support from her nearest and dearest regarding her sexuality. She explained: “I have always been supported by my friends and family – for people who are struggling, I would always say people who mind don’t matter, people who matter don’t mind,” she said.
Dolly’s extravagant soap investment
She’s played a part in several big storylines(Image: ITV)
In 2017, just a few years after joining Corrie, Gemma spoke candidly about her gratitude for being part of the cast and disclosed the significant investment she was able to make thanks to her soap earnings.
“Money isn’t everything but it makes your life easier. I worked for minimum wage for so long, to be earning more now is something I never take for granted,” she told The Sunday Post.
Dolly added: “I bought a house and like most people my age that’s something I never thought I’d be able to do.”
Dolly’s natural locks
Last year, Dolly posted some stunning new professional images on Instagram – and they certainly turned heads. The actress showcased a beautiful short curly hairstyle, appearing markedly different from the character Gemma who sports a short bob.
One follower observed: “I truly didn’t recognise the actress she looks fabulous.” A second wrote: “Gemma needs to go for a haircut and come back as the real you! suits you so well!” Another enthused: “Love love love your natural hair you look beautiful.”