Emmerdale viewers saw the introduction of new character Hilary Benshaw (played by Gabrielle Glaister) in last night’s episode (Tuesday, April 2). Hilary will appear on the ITV soap in the upcoming weeks as she goes head-to-head with Nicola King (Nicola Wheeler) for the title of local councillor. While the character is set to ruffle a few feathers on the ITV soap, fans have been wondering where they recognise the actress from. Here’s all you need to know about Emmerdale cast member Gabrielle Glaister. Related articles Emmerdale spoilers: Rhona Goskirk’s life in danger after collapse Claire King weight loss: Emmerdale star lost 10lb with this diet plan Who plays Hilary Benshaw on Emmerdale? Hilary Benshaw on Emmerdale is played by 58-year-old actress Gabrielle Glaister. Emmerdale viewers witnessed the new character debut on the soap on April 2, 2019. Glaister's character is running for local councillor, campaigning against Emmerdale stalwart Nicola King. ITV viewers will watch as the pair pull out all the stops to make sure they’re the one who wins the title. It may be Glaister’s first stint on Emmerdale, but the actress has enjoyed a long and successful career away from soapland. WHAT HAPPENED TO NICOLA'S ARM ON EMMERDALE? Emmerdale cast: Hilary Benshaw (Image: ITV) Emmerdale viewers will undoubtedly recognise Glaister for her roles in the Blackadder series on the BBC. Starring opposite the likes of Rowan Atkinson and Stephen Fry, Glaister appeared in Blackadder II and Blackadder Goes Forth. The soap star has also enjoyed roles in long-running hospital drama Casualty and BBC hit series, Sherlock. Glaister’s career in soapland is what the actress is most recognisable for, however, having starred in more than her fair share of UK soap operas. WHY DID BILLY FLETCHER GO TO JAIL ON EMMERDALE? Related articles Emmerdale spoilers: Billy Fletcher crushed as his past haunts him Emmerdale spoilers: Graham Foster's revenge plan against Kim EXPOSED? Emmerdale cast: Glaister in Blackadder (Image: Getty) Besides Emmerdale, the star’s CV boasts roles in Channel 4 soap Brookside, Coronation Street, Family Affair, and Doctors. In the Nineties, Brookside viewers saw the Emmerdale newcomer take on the role of Patricia Farnham for almost seven years. In 2000, Glaister starred as Debs Brownlow on Coronation Street. Fans of BBC daytime soap Doctor will know Glaister for her portrayal of numerous characters on the soap, including Kath Hill, Aileen Godolphin, and Josie Carlton. Prior to it leaving the air in 2005, the actress played Trish Wallace on Family Affairs. WILL MAYA AND JACOB HAVE A BABY ON EMMERDALE? Emmerdale cast: Hilary (Image: ITV) The ITV soap storyline between Hilary and Nicola looks set to carry on for many more episodes. Which one will come out on top is yet to be announced by ITV. Fans can watch the drama between the two unfold on ITV every weeknight at 7pm. Emmerdale can also be watched, streamed, and downloaded online thanks to the ITV Hub. Emmerdale continues tonight at 7pm.All rights reserved for this news site express.co.uk and under his responsibility