Gemma Collins insists her departure from 'The Only Way Is Essex' was a "mutual decision".
Gemma Collins
The 34-year-old star - who was reportedly suspended from the show by bosses earlier this month - claims she walked off the set because filming a confrontational scene with Vas Morgan and Lauren Pope become "too much" for her.
Gemma is said to have stormed off during filming shortly after learning her mother, chronic osteoarthritis sufferer Joan's health was deteriorating and was given leave from the show to spend time with her.
She said: "To hear that [about my mum] and then have to film a scene with Vas and Lauren [Pope] attacking me was too much. I had to walk away.
"I didn't want to break down and cry about my mum in front of the cast and crew.
"[Producers] let me take 10 days off to have a break with my mum.
"It was a mutual decision. They all understood that I wasn't happy and wasn't myself. I'm glad I've had some time off. I love 'TOWIE' and 'TOWIE' loves me."
Gemma also hit out at claims she is a "diva" on set.
She added to Star magazine: "I've had enough of being labelled this massive diva. It's hurtful when people call me a monster. I'm a 34-year-old girl caring for her mum and trying to hold down a career.
"It's not true [that I'm a diva or bully]. I've never said I'd a supermodel, I'm just a normal girl. I don't want people to think I'm horrible, I'm really not. I've got a good heart."
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