Ruth Gemmell, born in October 1967 in Bristol, England, is a distinguished English actress known for her versatile roles in film, television, and theatre. She grew up in County Durham, first in Barnard Castle and later in Darlington, following her parents' divorce.

She attended Polam Hall School and later moved to London to pursue her passion for acting. She trained at the Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art, which has produced many notable actors.

Her career began in the early 1990s with roles in television series such as "Casualty" and "EastEnders." She gained significant recognition for her role as Sarah Hughes in the 1997 film "Fever Pitch," where she starred opposite Colin Firth.

This role marked a turning point in her career, leading to more prominent roles in both television and film. Her portrayal of Carly Beaker, the mother of the title character in the "Tracy Beaker" franchise, has been particularly memorable, a role she has reprised multiple times since 2004.

In addition to her work in "Tracy Beaker," she has appeared in numerous television dramas, including "Silent Witness," "Waking the Dead," and "Penny Dreadful." Her role as Detective Constable Kerry Cox in "Silent Witness" and her recurring appearances in "Waking the Dead" showcased her ability to bring depth and complexity to her characters. Her versatility was further evident in her portrayal of Lady Violet Bridgerton in the popular Netflix series "Bridgerton," which began in 2020. This role brought her international acclaim and introduced her to a new generation of fans.

Her personal life has seen its share of ups and downs. She was married to actor Ray Stevenson from 1997 until their divorce in 2005. Despite the end of their marriage, she has continued to focus on her career and maintain a private personal life. She is known for her dedication to her craft and her ability to balance her professional and personal commitments.

Throughout her career, Ruth Gemmell has received critical acclaim for her performances. While she may not have a long list of awards, her work has been consistently praised by critics and audiences alike.