In the series *Joan*, Sophie Turner stars as Joan Hannington, a mother who escapes an abusive marriage and turns to crime in 1980s London. Inspired by Hannington’s memoirs, the show follows her evolution into a skilled jewel thief. With strong performances and a vibrant 80s backdrop, *Joan* explores themes of resilience and duality, highlighting Turner’s departure from her iconic role as Sansa Stark. The series combines suspense and drama, offering a compelling portrayal of an extraordinary woman’s journey.
Overview of Joan
In the gripping series Joan, Sophie Turner portrays Joan Hannington, a fiercely determined mother striving to create a better life for her daughter, Kelly. Set against the backdrop of 1980s London, she escapes from an abusive marriage and turns to a life of crime to make ends meet. Utilizing her wit and courage, Joan evolves into a notorious jewel thief, skillfully adopting various identities and disguises to execute daring heists. This thrilling narrative draws inspiration from Joan Hannington’s memoirs, I Am What I Am, and unfolds a captivating tale that intertwines the glitz of the 80s with the high stakes of criminal undertakings.
Joan is a compelling series created by Anna Symon, featuring Sophie Turner, Frank Dillane, and Kirsty J. Curtis. Tune in on Thursdays at 9:50 PM on OCS for two episodes per evening, with on-demand availability!
Exploring the Character of Joan
“It’s the story of an adventurous woman. I was captivated by how she juggled her life between being a mother and a criminal. Her personality won me over—her humor, her way of interacting with people, and her refusal to conform to societal expectations or let a man demean her,” Sophie Turner reflects on her character, offering a stark contrast to her iconic role as Sansa Stark.
Developed by Anna Symon and brought to life by director Richard Laxton, this six-episode series delves into the complexities of Joan Hannington’s character—a devoted mother, a wounded individual, and a cunning criminal. The cast also features Frank Dillane as Boisie, her partner in crime and mentor, alongside Kirsty J. Curtis and Gershwyn Eustache Jr.
Following her remarkable success in Game of Thrones, Sophie Turner embraces a vastly different character in Joan. Trading the medieval power struggles of Westeros for a contemporary urban thriller, the narrative weaves together elements of 80s fashion, social unrest, and constant peril in a biopic that, while conventional, is undeniably compelling. Turner beautifully captures Joan’s duality—vulnerable yet resolute—as she navigates her criminal activities and her responsibilities as a mother.
Sophie Turner’s Bold Transformation
With Joan, Sophie Turner showcases her versatility beyond the role of Sansa Stark. Departing from the realm of political maneuvering and grand battles, she embodies an ordinary woman drawn into a life of crime. Joan Hannington is a multi-dimensional figure, both heroic and flawed.
Fully immersing herself in the era, Turner embraced the music, fashion, and cultural nuances of the 80s: “I listened to a lot of 80s music. Smalltown Boy by Bronski Beat became my favorite; we played it on repeat. Whenever I hear it, I am transported back to Joan.”
This shift also carries significant emotional weight, as portraying a real individual comes with its own pressure. “I was terrified. I wanted to honor her,” she admits. However, her fears were alleviated when Joan herself expressed her approval, saying, “It’s perfect,” as she broke down in tears. The moment was profoundly moving for Turner, who felt deeply touched by Joan’s response.
Why You Should Tune In to Joan
Combining suspense, drama, and a touch of glamour, Joan offers viewers a fresh perspective on Sophie Turner while subtly echoing her previous role as Sansa Stark. It’s as if Sansa’s spirit lives on through this strong, imperfect heroine, navigating a world where every decision can have significant repercussions.
The series also excels in its meticulous portrayal of the 80s, showcasing authentic costumes, sets, and a vibrant musical backdrop. This nostalgic journey, supported by powerful performances and thoughtful storytelling, paints a vivid picture of an extraordinary woman in every sense of the word.