Gemma Collins has shared a heartbreaking confession, revealing that her mum died the day before her planned wedding to Rami Hawash. The reality star, 45, spoke about losing her beloved mum, Joan, who passed away on July 29 at the age of 70, on Celebrity Big Brother on Sunday night.
Gemma said her mum's health declined 24 hours before she had planned to marry businessman Rami. 'I was with her every day. I was meant to get married on the Thursday and my mum passed away on the Wednesday.
What can you do?' Trying to make light of the devastating situation, Gemma said: 'To be honest, it was all a rush anyway. I ordered a dress off Shein; it would not have gone down well.' Gemma has dated Rami on-and-off since 2011 and the couple got engaged for a third time during a getaway to the Maldives in February 2024.
Joan was hospitalised a month before her death as she battled pneumonia for the second time in six months. Gemma arrived as a celebrity guest on Friday night's show.
The star, known for her vibrant personality, struggled to hold back tears while recounting the final moments spent with her mother. She emphasized that despite the fame and glamour associated with her life, the loss of a parent remains an irreparable void.
Fellow contestants on the show offered their condolences, creating a somber atmosphere in the house. Gemma noted that the support from her peers helped her process the grief during the filming process.
The wedding, which was intended to be an intimate affair, was immediately called off following the tragedy. Gemma expressed that she has no immediate plans to reschedule the ceremony as she continues to mourn.
Fans of the reality star have flooded social media with messages of support, praising her for her bravery in speaking openly about such a personal loss on national television. The episode of Celebrity Big Brother is expected to draw high viewership as audiences connect with the human side of the celebrity, moving beyond her usual television persona.