Gemma Owen, daughter of former England footballer Michael Owen, has become one of the most talked-about young women in the UK, thanks to her high-profile appearance on Love Island and her achievements in sport and business. As public interest in Michael Owen’s family continues to soar, Gemma stands out not just as a footballer’s daughter, but as a determined competitor, business owner, and media personality in her own right.
Early Life and Sporting Ambitions
Born in May 2003, Gemma is the eldest of Michael Owen’s four children. Growing up in the public eye, she quickly developed a passion for equestrian sports, particularly dressage. By the age of 11, Gemma was already representing Great Britain in international competitions, a testament to her dedication and competitive spirit. Her commitment has seen her travel across Europe, competing in prestigious events and earning respect in the equestrian community.
In 2021, Gemma competed at the European Junior Championships in Oliva, Spain, riding her horse Sirius Black. The team finished sixth, and Gemma achieved a personal best score of 73.53% at Prix St. Georges level earlier that year. Her equestrian career remains a central part of her identity, with a dedicated social media following for her horse-riding exploits.
Business Ventures: OG Beachwear
Gemma’s drive extends beyond the stables. In early 2022, she launched OG Beachwear, a swimwear brand that quickly gained traction, partly thanks to her growing Instagram presence, which now boasts over 1.7 million followers. The brand reflects her entrepreneurial spirit and her desire to build something of her own, a value instilled by her parents. Gemma has spoken about the influence of her mother, Louise Bonsall, who encouraged her daughters to be financially independent and proactive in business.
Love Island: Catapult to Fame
Gemma’s profile skyrocketed when she joined the cast of Love Island in June 2022. At just 19, she was the youngest contestant that year, entering the villa as a confident, competitive, and self-assured woman. Her participation was headline news, not least because of her famous surname, but also due to her maturity and poise on the show.
Her father, Michael Owen, admitted that the prospect of his daughter joining Love Island was “every father’s worst nightmare,” but he remained supportive, trusting Gemma’s judgement and independence. Despite his initial scepticism, Michael publicly praised Gemma for how she handled herself, describing her as “sensible,” “clever,” and “the most amazing girl you could meet”.
Gemma finished as runner-up in the series, alongside Luca Bish, and was widely praised for her composure and authenticity. Michael Owen’s social media post after the final, stating “What a special girl.
Navigating Fame and Online Scrutiny
With fame comes scrutiny, and Gemma has not been immune to the challenges of public life. She has faced rumours and online criticism, including false claims about her involvement with adult content platforms, which she swiftly debunked on social media. Her father has also defended her against negative comments, highlighting the impact such criticism can have on families. Michael Owen noted that while he was used to public opinion as a footballer, seeing his daughter subjected to similar scrutiny was difficult for the entire family.
Despite the pressures, Gemma has remained focused on her goals. She continues to promote her business, share her love for horses, and engage with her growing fanbase. Her resilience and professionalism have set her apart from many reality TV alumni.
Family Life and Sibling Success
Gemma is not the only Owen child making headlines. Her younger sister, Emily May, has also attracted attention for her achievements in athletics. At just 14, Emily has won multiple sprinting medals, with Michael Owen proudly sharing her successes on social media and dubbing her his “speed queen”. The Owen family, based near Chester, is close-knit, with Michael and Louise supporting their children’s ambitions, whether in sport, business, or media.
Conclusion
As of 2025, Gemma Owen continues to balance her roles as an influencer, businesswoman, and athlete. She remains a prominent figure in British popular culture, with her every move followed by fans and media alike. Her journey from dressage arenas to prime-time television has made her a role model for young people navigating fame, ambition, and the challenges of modern media.
Gemma’s story is a reminder that being the child of a celebrity can open doors, but it is talent, determination, and character that sustain success. As she forges her own path, Gemma Owen is proving she is much more than just Michael Owen’s daughter—she is a star in her own right.
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