Sophie Turner, best known for her role as Sansa Stark in Game of Thrones, is set to captivate audiences once again in ITV’s new six-part series, Joan, per harpersbazaar.com. The drama, based on the true story of Joan Hannington, Britain’s most notorious jewel thief, offers Turner a complex and challenging role that she describes as irresistible.
“I couldn’t give her up to anyone else!” Turner exclaims, reflecting on her immediate connection to the character. The series, which premiered on September 29, on ITVX, delves into the life of Hannington, known as “the Godmother” of diamond heists.
Joan Hannington’s story is far from a simple crime caper. A victim of abuse from both her father and husband, Hannington fled her marriage with her young daughter. Forced to give up her child to foster care, she turned to theft in hopes of regaining custody and financial stability.
Turner, who recently became a mother for the second time, found a deep resonance with the character.
“Joan, at her core, is a mother who loves her child and will do anything for her,” she explains. “I think any mother that watches this will be able to relate to it.”
The series showcases Turner’s versatility as an actress, requiring her to switch between various accents and looks. “When I’m doing something in my own voice and I look like myself, it’s harder,” Turner admits. “But with Joan, so much of her is dressing up. Once I put the wig on, I’d had my two hours of make-up, and the shoulder pads and the accent came out, I felt like it was all Joan.”
Set against the backdrop of 1980s London, the show juxtaposes the era’s flamboyant fashion and music with the gritty realities of Hannington’s life. Turner worked closely with the costume designer to bring authenticity to the character’s style, even consulting her mother for accurate ’80s dance moves.
The real Joan Hannington was involved in the production, meeting with Turner and the cast on set. “She’s mad as a box of frogs, in the best way,” Turner says fondly of Hannington. “She has this unbelievable energy.”
Interestingly, Turner’s personal life seemed to mirror aspects of her character’s struggles during filming. Amidst production, Turner faced a public divorce from musician Joe Jonas, accompanied by tabloid scrutiny of her parenting.
“I think art has a funny way of blending with your own life,” Turner reflects.
Despite the challenges, Turner remains focused on co-parenting and her career. “We’re doing the best we can for our kids,” she says of her relationship with Jonas. “I’ll do anything to make sure my kids feel like they have a mum and dad that can always be there for them, together or apart.”
With its blend of crime drama, personal triumph, and 1980s nostalgia, Joan promises to be a compelling addition to ITV’s lineup, with Sophie Turner’s performance at its heart.
