Gemma Collins is a little late logging into our Zoom call. This isn’t because the self-confessed diva Forever (her reality, according to the title of her show) has just rolled out of bed, but because she’s urgently taking care of her thirsty plants. The hottest day of the year.
The former The Only Way Is Essex star, aka The GC, developed green fingers during the pandemic and now waters wild meadows (“nice for bees and butterflies”) and vegetable patches for her morning priority.
“I went to the Chelsea Flower Show this year,” she begins, with a instantly recognizable accent. “Amazingly, my garden offers what it deserves for its money. See? I’m just being honest.”
So what’s sprouting up at the Queen of Memes’ Essex Gardens?
“Peppers, carrots, zucchini, beets, strawberries, tomatoes, cabbage, squash, cauliflower, leeks and onions,” she says. “You give it a name and GC is growing it.”
After starring in high-profile reality shows ranging from Celebrity Big Brother and I’m a Celebrity… to Dancing on Ice, the 41-year-old is now a staunch fan of Gardeners World. A presenter worth swooning over.
“My dream is to meet Monty Don,” she says. “I’m crazy. My dream is to make a TV show. [with him], or just stroking his arm. I watch all his shows. I’m sitting there and I’m like, ‘Rami, be quiet, I’m taking notes. “
In 2021, Collins reunited with her partner, Rami Hawash, 48, who proposed to her in 2013. She claims the couple hasn’t set a date, even though she was once again photographed with her ring on.
“The ring he bought me years ago – I always had it. I wear it if I’m going to a nice place,” she explains. “He’s my partner and we love each other so it will come true, but no rush. Jason Momoa may still call!”
Collins, who now works for the beloved hair brand Aussie, said her previous desire to be “the blondest person on the planet” left her hair dry and damaged, but Antipodean’s They say moisturizing products helped.
“I was pretty damaged from bleaching, but the other day my hairdresser said, ‘Oh my God, my hair is thicker.’ And I was like, ‘Yes, thanks, finally.’
Did being blonde help the TV legend’s career success?
“You know what, what hair color do you think … I would have made it work. I was a very determined individual.”
After more than a decade in the spotlight (and reportedly attaining billionaire status), the reality star tells all aspiring GCs to work hard and come face-to-face. I advise you to seize every opportunity.
“While you’re working, just keep cracking up and try to send a positive message. It’s not all about shopping and lunch. You have to have a purpose.”
Celebrating self-acceptance is now part of Collins’ purpose, which she doesn’t, but she regularly shares messages with her 2.2 million Instagram followers. Overall Addicted to social media sites.
“I find Instagram completely boring right now,” she says. “Everyone looks the same.
But it’s not GC. It doesn’t matter if you’re hungry, ’cause that’s who I am. that’s me “
The “extremely spiritual” celeb is a big believer in the power and positive messages of crystals. she said: For example, when I say, “Oh my god, I’m ugly” or “I’m fat”… your body picks up that vibration and that message. “
Turning 40 and sobering through the pandemic, Collins, who previously lived up to her reputation as a diva, has embraced a quieter life.
“I think he brings out more of the down-to-earth side in me,” she says of her partner. “He’s dating Gemma, not GC.”
Now, she’s happier pottering with her own plants than posing on the red carpet.
“You feel like you’ve reached a point in your life. More importantly, be healthy,” she said, ending our chat.
“Listen, it’s all different stages of life. I don’t know, I have nothing to prove anymore.”
