‘Elephants ARE MY SPIRIT ANIMAL’
The meme queen of 2017 talks owning the internet, love prospects and how giving up meat has made her psychic with Charlotte Oliver…
In our eyes, she’s always been a legend, but in the past few months, Gemma Collins – or The GC, as she now calls herself – has reached mythical status. In fact, she might just be the biggest internet sensation of recent times. Take that Kim Kardashian! It all kicked off in July when Gem, 36, rocked up to the ITV Summer Party wearing an unforgettable orange dress with shoulder pads that could be seen from space. Twitter took notice and, soon enough, we had a GC meme for every single emotion and occasion. What a time to be alive. So, when we sit down to chat ahead of her triumphant return to TOWIE, we’re delighted to hear she’s loving her new role as 2017’s ultimate meme muse (which she pronounces “me-may” because… she’s The GC). But, before we get onto how she broke the internet, there’s the little matter of that mystery man she’s been gushing about on Insta to discuss…
So, who’s this guy you’ve been cosying up to on Instagram?
I knew the minute I looked at him that he was really lovely and kind. I drove him mad, because every week I’d lie and say my light bulb had gone or the sink was blocked up. I really, really like him, but we’re kind of in that friend zone at the minute. It’s really awkward.
Has he made any moves yet?
No. Literally nothing! We’ve got really close over the last few weeks, so watch this space – he’s the nicest person I’ve met in a long time and I love his family. I’m already invited for Christmas dinner. I’m praying every night that I end up with JD. But he’s trying to get his business up and running, so he’s very busy, and I suppose, although I’m a normal girl, people can get a bit intimidated.
Are there are any other guys on the scene?
No. I don’t want to go out with anyone else, in case something happens between us. I’ve been asked out on a date tonight, but I’m not being funny, I’ve not heard from him and it is one o’clock in the afternoon. I’m precious cargo – men can’t mess me about.
Have you seen Arg since he came out of rehab?
Yeah, I told him off for blocking me. He just said that he sees me as part of his life before therapy, as part of that Oh my God, his name’s JD and I met him late last year when I got a new shop – he was the maintenance guy.