Former Emmerdale actress Gemma Oaten has publicly addressed her recent relationship separation, sharing an empowering message about embracing single life and personal happiness. The star, best known for playing Rachel Breckle in the popular ITV soap, took to social media to reveal she is "thriving" following her split from boyfriend Maisie Spackman.
Embracing Solo Living
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Oaten reflected on societal expectations surrounding relationships and singledom. "The amount of people that have said to me recently, 'are you seeing anybody?'" she shared, noting how acquaintances often reassure her that "the right one will come along" and "there's someone for everyone."
The actress offered a refreshing perspective, responding: "I don't remember saying that I wanted anyone to come along. I'm my somebody! What's the everyone about?"
Normalising Single Happiness
Oaten extended her message to others in similar situations, stating: "I just wanted to say, ladies, men, if you're single and you're quite happy with it, and you're alright and you don't want any drama, don't feel like you have to explain yourself."
In the comments section of her social media reel, she elaborated further: "Don't get me wrong, my heart is not closed. Anybody who knows me knows that I am such an open book—hence why I probably get hurt a lot! But I really want to try and normalise the conversation that you don't have to be in a relationship."
A Positive Destination
The actress emphasised that being single represents a conscious choice rather than a transitional phase. "Sometimes life doesn't work out the way you thought it 'had' to, and you realise that being solo is actually the best route for you and your mental health right now," she explained. "It's not a waiting room; it's a destination. I'm doing more than okay; I'm thriving."
Supportive Responses
Followers quickly responded with appreciation for her candid perspective. One commenter wrote: "Good on ya girl best thing bout being single not having to answer to anybody," while another added: "Better to be single than unhappy and feeling lonely."
Soap Opera Legacy
Gemma Oaten remains best known to television audiences for her portrayal of Rachel Breckle in Emmerdale between 2011 and 2014, with a brief return in 2015. During her tenure on the Yorkshire-based drama, her character experienced significant storylines including:
- A one-night stand with Jai Sharma (played by Chris Bisson)
- Becoming pregnant with their son Archie
- Being framed by Charity Dingle for a fire at Home Farm
- Going on the run to protect Sam Dingle from prison
- Returning unexpectedly to testify against Charity during her trial
The character was ultimately killed off-screen in 2019, making Oaten's departure from the series permanent. She later appeared in three episodes of Coronation Street as Isla Haywood, a potential love interest for Tyrone Dobbs and mother to one of Hope Stape's classmates.
Beyond Acting
Away from television screens, Oaten serves as Chief Executive Officer and Patron for SEED, an eating disorder support service established by her parents, Marg and Dennis Oaten. Her advocacy work in mental health support complements her recent messages about personal wellbeing and relationship choices.
The actress's open discussion about embracing single life comes as part of a broader cultural conversation about relationship expectations, personal autonomy, and mental health prioritisation. Her message resonates particularly in an era where traditional relationship timelines are increasingly being questioned and redefined.
