Carly Hope



Carly Hope is the daughter of Bob Hope (Tony Audenshaw). She appeared in 2001 and 2006, played by Rebecca Ryan. On 12 December 2014, it was revealed that Carly would be returning to Emmerdale and that former Hollyoaks star, Gemma Atkinson had been tipped to play her. On 7 January 2015, it was confirmed that Atkinson would be playing Carly and appearing from 11 March 2015.

Storylines
Carly is Bob's daughter from his second marriage, to Barbara. She first appears in 2001, when Bob visits her and her brother Josh. She returns in 2006 as a teenager for her father's remarriage to Viv Hope (Deena Payne). She only arrives, with her Josh and mother Barbara, because Bob pretends to be going blind in an attempt to be reunited with his children. However, the truth soon comes out and they leave the village before the wedding. However, they return for the ceremony and leave after the wedding, but on good terms with Bob. During her time in Emmerdale Carly has a brief attraction to Daz Eden (Luke Tittensor) and for a short while they keep in touch via text message.

Development
On 12 December 2014, The Sun reported that Carly would be returning in the new year and the role had been recast to be played by former Hollyoaks and Casualty star, Gemma Atkinson. The report stated how Carly would bring busier times for her father, Bob and his partner, Brenda Walker (Lesley Dunlop) after a quieter year. However when questioned, an Emmerdale spokesperson did not comment on Atkinson's casting, but confirmed Carly would be returning. On 7 January 2015, Emmerdale confirmed that Atkinson had been cast in the role of Carly and began filming in January 2015. Carly will return on-screen in March, after deciding that Bob has to make up for the time he missed out on when she was a child. In her time away from the village, Carly has been hit by several bad relationships and will be looking for love as she arrives to Emmerdale. Atkinson commented on her new role, "I am absolutely thrilled to be joining the cast of Emmerdale and I cannot wait to see what's in store for Carly. I hope you all enjoy watching her story unfold." Meanwhile, the show's executive producer, Kate Oates said, "I'm delighted to welcome Gemma to the cast. Her character Carly is sure to liven things up for Bob and Brenda and anyone who crosses her path."