‘Henry’s a dead man walking’
Gemma’s lesser half can run, but he can’t hide
It’s sod’s law that just as it looks like Gemma might live happily ever after with her prince charming – after an admittedly bumpy start – the soap gods throw another spanner in the works. Next week, Henry’s past catches up with him when some heavies threaten violence if he doesn’t repay £20K to his ex fianceé’s family, and he’s forced to take drastic action. Actor George Banks reveals all...
How genuine are Henry’s feelings for Gemma?
He loves her, and he risked a lot by choosing to be with her. His engagement to Cressida was an arranged agreement between the families, and one he was never really happy with. The time he had with Gemma before was probably the best he’s ever had.
Can they ever be happy?
I think they could, but Henry is hiding something. Gemma’s the antithesis of him, but they work well together. He’s helping her understand her value, and she’s making him see the value of hard work. But he’ll be faced with some tough choices, and we’ll have to see if he makes the right ones.
He attempts to con Rita. Has he done it before?
It’s pure desperation. This is the first time he’s been in a situation that he can’t buy his way out of it. He could just be honest with Gemma and say he needs help, but his pride gets in the way.
What’s this about his plan to throw himself down The Rovers stairs to claim the insurance?
I think he just sees an opportunity to get himself out of a big hole. It’s quite dark, but it’s desperation. There are no other options, and in his eyes, if he doesn’t come up with the money, he’s a dead man.
Does this show the lengths he’ll go to in order to save his relationship with Gemma?
Yes, he has risked a lot to be in this relationship. In his opinion, his dishonesty is to save his relationship with Gemma, and in the back of his mind, he hopes that if she were to ever find that out, she would accept it.
Did you always know Henry would be back?
No, I didn’t. I thought from how things were left with him and Gemma, it would be difficult for him to win over her affection again and make her believe he was being genuine. But Henry’s worked hard to prove himself.