Millie Gibson Opens Up About Battling Horrific Tabloid Stories and Her Struggle to Speak Out
Millie Gibson, a talented young actress, has been making waves in the entertainment industry. At just 21 years old, Gibson has transitioned from her notable role as Kelly Neelan in “Coronation Street” to becoming the youngest companion in the iconic series “Doctor Who.” Her journey is not just one of success but also of personal challenges, including dealing with tabloid scrutiny.
Career Milestones
Gibson first gained fame on “Coronation Street,” where she played the troubled Kelly Neelan, a performance that earned her a British Soap Award. After leaving the show at 18, she embraced new opportunities, including landing the role of Ruby Sunday in “Doctor Who.” Her introduction as the Doctor’s companion was marked by a live announcement during the 2022 Children in Need telethon.
Transition to “Doctor Who”
The transition from “Coronation Street” to “Doctor Who” was rapid. Only two months after her departure from the soap, Gibson’s career took a significant turn. “Doctor Who” aimed to revitalize its fanbase, coinciding with the return of beloved showrunner Russell T Davies. Gibson’s partnership with the Fifteenth Doctor, played by Ncuti Gatwa, draws comparisons to previous dynamics seen in the show.
Challenges with Tabloid Stories
While Gibson’s career was flourishing, she faced challenges from tabloid stories that claimed she was acting like a “diva” during her time on set. These allegations surfaced in summer 2023, creating difficult situations for the young actress, who felt unable to defend herself without risking spoilers for the series.
- Gibson was publicly criticized by tabloids before her first series aired.
- She had known she would return for the second series despite those reports.
- The experience was described by Gibson as “horrific,” impacting her at a young age.
Exploring Female Roles in Period Drama
Gibson has also expanded her repertoire by starring in the period drama “The Forsytes.” Based on John Galsworthy’s acclaimed book series, this show highlights upper-class English society in the late 1880s. Gibson plays Irene Heron, whose character challenges traditional roles within the narrative.
Focus on Female Characters
The show has been praised for portraying strong female characters, a shift from Galsworthy’s original works, which often sidelined women. Gibson credits scriptwriter Debbie Horsfield for enhancing female representation. This fresh perspective allowed Gibson to explore the heroine role she previously felt eluded her.
Life in the Spotlight
As Gibson navigated her burgeoning fame, she reflected on the duality of her life. Living in Manchester, her home city, she experienced the challenges of growing up in the public eye. Although fame arrived quickly, her local celebrity status from “Coronation Street” prepared her for the larger attention from “Doctor Who.”
Through it all, Gibson maintains a level-headed approach. She acknowledges that challenges will arise again in her career but focuses on resilience and the support she receives from friends and colleagues, particularly Gatwa, who has faced similar scrutiny.
Conclusion
Millie Gibson’s journey is a testament to her talent and determination. With a successful transition from soap opera to iconic television roles, she embodies the evolving nature of female characters in entertainment. As she continues to develop her craft, Gibson remains both relatable and inspiring, navigating the complexities of fame with poise.
