Samantha Giles: The Versatile Actress and Acclaimed Author
Samantha Giles is a name that resonates strongly within British television and literature. Known widely for her long-standing role as Bernice Blackstock in the ITV soap opera Emmerdale, she has also showcased her remarkable talent across theatre, film, and children’s literature. With a career spanning decades, Giles has carved out a reputation as one of the UK’s most versatile actresses while also establishing herself as a successful author. This article explores her life, career, and accomplishments in detail, highlighting why she continues to captivate audiences both on screen and on the page.
Early Life and Education
Childhood in Maidstone
Born on 2 July 1971 in Maidstone, Kent, Samantha Giles grew up with a natural flair for performance. From an early age, she exhibited a strong interest in storytelling and acting, setting her sights on a future in the arts.
Academic Foundations
She pursued her passion at the University of Bristol, where she studied Drama and English, alongside Film and Television. This combination gave her a well-rounded perspective on performance, character development, and narrative structure. Her time at university not only honed her craft but also fuelled her determination to succeed in a highly competitive industry.
Acting Career
Breakthrough in Television
Samantha Giles first came to public prominence when she joined Emmerdale as Bernice Blackstock. The character, a vivacious and complex woman, quickly became a fan favourite. Bernice’s storylines often blended humour with heartfelt drama, allowing Giles to display her full range of acting skills.
Roles Beyond Emmerdale
While Emmerdale is her most recognisable role, Samantha Giles has built an extensive portfolio across British television.
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Sally Boothe in Where the Heart Is – A compassionate nurse, Giles’s portrayal brought warmth and depth to the character, cementing her status as a reliable performer in prime-time drama.
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Valerie Holden in Hollyoaks – As Valerie, Giles explored a very different side of her acting, showing versatility in handling soap opera’s fast-paced storytelling.
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Guest appearances in Doctors, Dangerfield, The Case, and Mad Dogs – These roles further emphasised her adaptability and commitment to portraying diverse characters.
Theatre Contributions
Samantha Giles has also left her mark on the stage. She has performed in national tours and regional productions, taking on roles in plays such as:
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A Taste of Honey (as Helen)
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Season’s Greetings (as Belinda)
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Dead Funny (as Lisa)
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Absent Friends (as Marge)
Her theatre work reflects her dedication to exploring characters deeply, often engaging with themes of family, identity, and humour.
Film Work
In addition to television and theatre, Giles has appeared in film. She played Mary in Midnight Man and more recently portrayed Diane in The Secret Santa Project, a heartwarming story based on a novel by Tracey Bloom. With each performance, Giles has demonstrated an ability to transition seamlessly between mediums.
Literary Journey
Children’s Fiction
Beyond acting, Samantha Giles has made a significant impact as an author. She wrote her debut children’s book Rosemary and the Witches of Pendle Hill, which became an Amazon bestseller. The novel introduced young readers to a magical adventure filled with courage, friendship, and themes of self-discovery.
The success of her debut inspired a sequel, Rosemary and the Book of the Dead, which continued to enchant her growing readership.
Upcoming Works
Her literary journey shows no signs of slowing down. The final instalment of her Rosemary series, Rosemary and the Witches’ Stone of Camelot, is due for release in late 2025. In addition, Giles has ventured into historical fiction for adults, completing her debut novel The Witch In Me, which promises to captivate readers with its blend of history, drama, and personal resilience.
Personal Life
Family
Samantha Giles married Sean Pritchard in 2010, and together they have two daughters, Eve and Olivia. Despite her busy professional life, she has always emphasised the importance of family, balancing her commitments with her role as a mother.
Spiritual and Creative Interests
Outside of her professional achievements, Giles has a deep interest in spirituality, spells, and holistic living. She often discusses her connection to natural energies, which she believes helps guide her creativity. This unique perspective adds another layer to her identity as both a performer and writer.
Recognition and Influence
A Beloved Soap Icon
Few characters in British soap operas have achieved the level of affection as Bernice Blackstock, and much of that credit goes to Giles’s nuanced performance. Over the years, she has returned to Emmerdale multiple times, with fans consistently celebrating her presence.
Inspiring a New Generation
Through her books, Samantha Giles has inspired younger readers to embrace the joys of reading and imagination. Her commitment to storytelling extends beyond acting, ensuring that her influence touches multiple generations.
Current and Future Projects
On Screen
Giles continues to appear on television, including work with the BBC, ITV, and other production companies. She remains a sought-after actress for roles that require depth, authenticity, and charm.
In Print
Her forthcoming works, particularly Rosemary and the Witches’ Stone of Camelot and The Witch In Me, are highly anticipated. These projects mark a new chapter in her career as a respected author capable of writing for both children and adults.
Legacy
A Career of Balance
What sets Samantha Giles apart is her ability to balance two demanding careers. Acting and writing require different skills, yet she manages to excel in both. Her success is a testament to her creativity, discipline, and passion for storytelling in all forms.
An Enduring Public Figure
With over three decades in the spotlight, Giles has remained relevant by continually evolving her craft. Whether entertaining audiences as Bernice in Emmerdale, captivating children with tales of magic, or preparing new works for adult readers, she proves that reinvention is key to longevity.
Conclusion
Samantha Giles stands as a shining example of versatility in the arts. From her memorable roles in British television to her flourishing career as an author, she has consistently demonstrated talent, dedication, and creativity. With exciting new projects on the horizon, her influence shows no sign of waning.
As she continues to balance the worlds of acting and writing, Samantha Giles remains not just a performer and storyteller but a cultural figure who embodies the enduring spirit of British creativity.
