Nicola Stephenson

Nicola Stephenson (born 5th July 1971) is an English actress who currently plays Tess in Emmerdale. She has previously appeared in Brookside, and was one half of the first lesbian kiss on pre-watershed British television. This kiss was later broadcast to billions of people during the London 2012 Olympic Opening ceremony, including people in 76 countries where homosexuality is illegal, making it the first homosexual kiss broadcast in these countries. Stephenson has also appeared in Childrens Ward, Nice Day at the Office, Out of the blue, The Bill, Casualty and Waterloo Road amoungst others.

She has been married to artist Paul Stephenson and the couple have two daughters.