Rachael Gill-Davis: From Emmerdale to Saint Joan – A Journey of Passion, Purpose, and Reinvention

When Rachael Gill-Davis departed the cobbled pathways of Emmerdale, fans mourned the quiet exit of Gail Loman, a character who had etched her presence in the Dingle universe with equal parts charm and vulnerability. But beyond the TV screen, Rachael’s journey was only just beginning. Now, she’s preparing to step into the armored boots of one of history’s most iconic women: Joan of Arc.

It’s a move few expected, yet one that makes perfect sense for the dynamic performer who always had one foot firmly in the world of theatre. Speaking candidly, Rachael shared, “I’m absolutely over the moon to take on such a great role… It is a lot of pressure as Judi Dench, and people like her, have played the role.”

Trading Yorkshire Fields for French Battlefields

The leap from Gail Loman to Joan of Arc is nothing short of transformative. Rachael admits she’s been diving deep into research, holding up volumes of George Bernard Shaw’s work and recounting past roles in Shakespearean plays like Much Ado About Nothing. Her excitement is palpable as she prepares for the August production of Saint Joan, which will take place in Malvern and Cheltenham.

Rachael acknowledges the shift in tone and stakes from soap to stage: “Before Emmerdale, I was often cast in complex theatre roles. Playing Gail was special, but returning to a serious historical piece like this feels like coming home.”

Behind the Scenes: Her Love for Theatre

Though many fans know her from television, Rachael’s first love has always been the stage. Originally from St Annes near Blackpool, her passion for acting took shape early, especially under the guidance of a high school drama teacher who encouraged her to pursue the arts.

Now based in Manchester, Rachael reflects on the intimacy of live performance: “It feels electric. Even when things go wrong, there’s a rush in figuring it out live with your fellow actors.”

She adds, “With theatre, you live and breathe a character across an entire arc, without anyone yelling ‘cut’. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s why I fell in love with acting.”

A Farewell to Gail Loman – and Lessons from the Dales

Rachael’s time on Emmerdale wasn’t just a job – it was a life-changing experience. From her first appearance in 2019 to her final episodes in 2025, Gail’s arc mirrored Rachael’s own growth. “I learned so much about myself on that set,” she says. “Working with people like Mark Charnock and Louise Jameson… it’s shaped me as an actor and person.”

Reflecting on the fast-paced production style of soaps, she admits it was a challenge at first. “You rehearse once, shoot, and move on. As a perfectionist, that was tough. I kept wanting to rewatch everything in the editing suite!”

Despite the intensity, she cherishes her Emmerdale years. “I met lifelong friends. The crew, makeup artists, directors – they’re just as much a part of my journey as the cast.”

A Second Career: Shaping Future Talent

Beyond the spotlight, Rachael is also a dedicated teacher. She currently lectures at Leeds Film School, guiding young actors in the nuances of acting for the screen. “I’m quite old school,” she laughs. “I tell my students: Know your lines. Show up on time. Respect the craft.”

She’s also working with Knock and Nash, a company committed to bringing drama education to underrepresented areas in the North. “There’s so much untapped talent outside London. I didn’t even know what drama school was until I was 18.”

This mission isn’t just professional – it’s personal. Rachael is determined to open doors for those who, like her, didn’t have traditional access to elite training.

Fame, Privacy, and Lorraine Kelly

Despite becoming a household face, Rachael admits she prefers keeping things low-key. Recalling her appearance on Lorraine, she laughs, “It was the most stressful three minutes of my life!”

Even reading online comments from her first Emmerdale episodes became a family affair. “I said I wouldn’t read them, but my mum’s side of the family kept dropping them in our group chat. Scousers! They were howling with laughter.”

The Future: Big Dreams, Humble Heart

What’s next for Rachael after Saint Joan? “I want to do it all,” she says with quiet conviction. “Drama, comedy, Shakespeare… and I’d love to return to Emmerdale one day. The producers told me the door was open.”

Her dream roles remain vast, but her vision is clear: meaningful storytelling, accessible arts education, and honest performance. “I don’t think you ever stop learning in acting,” she says. “That’s what keeps it thrilling.”

From small screens to center stage, Rachael Gill-Davis is just getting started – and we’ll be watching every step of the way.

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