Showbiz
David Fisher/Rex Features
The former Hollyoaks star told The Sun that she had travelled to the US in order to boost her industry credentials.
Atkinson said: "I am not doing any shoots this year. I finished Hollyoaks, which was amazing, but I don't want to do soap again - I want the next step up.
"You can't just expect to have done a Channel 4 soap and become a movie star, so I have had to start all over again."
She added: "I made a decision to take a year out from the modelling. I wanted to audition and take acting classes - I want to start afresh.
"I have been coming down to London to meet with my acting coach and to have elocution lessons. Then I went to the States and worked over there.
"I think the lads' mags might have been a bit disappointed. I will still do my calendar, which is different, as it's my own styling, my own team."
More: Gemma Atkinson, Showbiz
Related Stories
Ten Things About...
Ten Things About... Ridley ScottWe find out ten fast facts about the English producer and director.
Interviews
'Angels' Share' Ken Loach interviewKen Loach, Paul Laverty and Paul Brannigan on their whiskey-soaked comedy.
Fashion & Beauty
Duchess of Cambridge's memorable momentsFlick through a gallery of Kate Middleton's stand-out public appearances.
Celeb Birthdays
Marilyn Monroe: Life and career in picsFlick through our gallery on what would have been Marilyn's 86th birthday.
