Gemma Collins Discovers Shocking Family Connection to Jack the Ripper’s Victims
Reality TV star Gemma Collins recently made a startling revelation about her family history while filming an episode of the popular BBC show, Who Do You Think You Are? The 43-year-old star shared that she uncovered a connection between her relatives and the infamous Jack the Ripper’s victims. Collins disclosed that members of her family once resided on London’s Dorset Street, the same street where two of the serial killer’s victims, Mary Kelly and Annie Chapman, lived during a dark period in the city’s history.
Dorset Street was known for its lawlessness and was considered one of the most dangerous areas in London during the time of Jack the Ripper. With little police presence in the neighborhood, the Ripper was able to carry out his gruesome murders with impunity. Collins expressed her shock at the discovery, stating, “We lived on the same street as Jack The Ripper’s victims. So, one of my lot could have actually been Jack the Ripper. Do you know what I mean? When you watch it, we’re on the same street in London, Dorset Street, where Jack the Ripper was doing all his killings. That was a bit of, you know, (it was) absolutely shocking.”
Revealing Family Secrets and Unraveling Mysteries
In addition to the chilling revelation about her connection to Jack the Ripper’s victims, Collins also delves into her family’s personal history on the show. The Only Way Is Essex star explores the story of her mother, who was adopted, and uncovers the reasons behind her grandmother’s decision to part with her. Collins describes the experience as a “Pandora’s Box” that needed to be opened, leading to a profound impact on her family.
Collins reflects on the emotional journey, sharing, “It has definitely been the biggest gift I could have ever given my mom. So, thank you to the BBC for that. But she’s just got so many things that she didn’t know that was never answered for her. So it has just been wonderful that she’s now had access to that information.” The discovery sheds light on her mother’s past and provides closure on long-standing questions that have haunted her family for years.
A Troubled Past and a Family’s Resilience
As Collins uncovers more about her family’s history, she learns of the challenges and hardships faced by her ancestors. The show reveals that there was pressure on Collins’ grandmother not to have her baby due to concerns about her mental health. Collins reflects on her grandmother’s rebellious nature, noting, “It (was) a bit sketchy mental health back in the day because she was obviously a character. She was a bit of a free spirit, she didn’t like school. She was a bit of a tearaway girl, so it was just best.”
Through the revelations about her family’s past, Collins gains a deeper understanding of the struggles and resilience that have been passed down through generations. She acknowledges the difficult decisions that were made by her ancestors and the impact these choices had on future generations. Collins’ journey of self-discovery not only uncovers shocking truths but also highlights the strength and perseverance of her family in the face of adversity.
As Gemma Collins’ episode of Who Do You Think You Are? airs on BBC One, viewers are invited to join her on a poignant and revealing journey through her family’s past. The exploration of her connection to Jack the Ripper’s victims and the uncovering of long-held family secrets provide a compelling narrative that delves into the complexities of family history and the enduring legacy of past generations. Through her emotional journey, Collins offers a glimpse into the resilience and strength of her family, showcasing the power of understanding and embracing one’s roots.
