Gemma Christina Arterton, a talented actress, was born in Gravesend, Kent, England, where she spent her formative years. She is the loving daughter of Sally-Anne (Heap),a devoted cleaner, and Barry J. Arterton, a skilled welder. Interestingly, her mother's cousin, Eric Goulden, is a renowned singer-songwriter.
As a young child, Gemma's parents divorced when she was just five years old, and she went on to live with her younger sister and mother. Despite this challenging situation, her parents encouraged their children to nurture their creative potential. Gemma's sister, Hannah, had a passion for singing, whereas Gemma chose to pursue a career in acting. During her teenage years, Gemma was actively involved with the Masquerade and Miskin theater companies, taking on roles in productions such as The Massacre of Civitella and Guiding Star. Her outstanding performance earned her the Best Supporting Actress award in 2004, which led to a grant to study at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA).
While pursuing her studies at RADA, Gemma landed her first professional role in the critically acclaimed film Capturing Mary (2007),directed by the renowned Stephen Poliakoff and starring the legendary Maggie Smith. Gemma went on to graduate from RADA in 2007 and secured her first film role in the comedy film St. Trinian's (2007). Her breakthrough role arrived in 2008 when she appeared in the highly successful James Bond film Quantum of Solace (2008). In recognition of her outstanding talent, Gemma was awarded Empire's Best Newcomer Award in 2009.
