Joan release date, cast and episode count ahead of new ITV drama

The much-awaited ITV drama Joan, starring Game of Thrones actress Sophie Turner in the titular role, is set to hit our screens this weekend. The series, based on the real-life exploits of notorious jewel thief Joan Harrington, also known as The Godmother, will transport viewers to the criminal underworld of 1980s London.

Joan's life of crime escalates throughout the series, with an array of disguises and plots as she strives to secure a future for herself and her daughter.

Written by Anna Symon, the series will be broadcast on ITV1 and ITVX, offering a peek into the gritty reality of 1980s London and the 'true' tale of Joan Harrington. Here is who's starring in the new ITV drama, how you can tune in, and what to anticipate over the course of the series.

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What is the plot of ITV show Joan?

A plot synopsis of the new ITV drama reads: "When her partner Gary goes on the run, Joan seizes the chance to start a new life with her six-year-old daughter, Kelly. Delving deeper into the criminal underworld, Joan meets Boisie, an enigmatic antiques dealer whose allure introduces her to new levels of danger and passion.

"Through sharp intelligence, irresistible charm, and a talent for impersonation, Joan's journey is a high-stakes game of survival and reinvention. Every heist and every stolen diamond is driven by her singular purpose: to create a secure future for her daughter."

Filming for the series took place in Herne Bay, along with various locations in Birmingham and the Midlands.

How many episodes are there in Joan and when does it air?

The ITV drama will consist of six episodes, with the first one set to air on ITV1 at 9pm on Sunday, September 29. The second episode won't keep viewers waiting long as it is scheduled for the following day at 9pm on Monday, September 30.

The entire series will be available for on-demand viewing on ITVX from September 29 after the first episode is aired.

Who is in the cast of Joan?

British actress Sophie Turner is known for her role as Sansa Stark in Game of Thrones and her Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series. She has also starred in The Staircase, Jean Grey in the X Men films, Time Freak and Josie.

Joining her is Frank Dillane, known for his roles in The Essex Serpent, Fear the Walking Dead, and Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince, who plays Boisie, a London antique dealer. Kirsty J Curtis, known for Rise of the Footsoldier and Harlots, portrays Nancy, Joan's older sister and a salon worker.

Gershwyn Eustache Jnr, from I May Destroy You and Top Boy, plays Albie, an old acquaintance of Boisie who's made a new life in Spain with his wife Val, played by Laura Aikman from The Split and Gavin and Stacey.

Other actors joining the series include Nick Blood (Agents of S. H. I. E. L. D, Safe), Jack Greenlees (Strike, Harlots), Alex Blake (The Crown, Chernobyl), Caroline Faber (Grantchester, Berlin Station) and Dorothy Atkinson (The Gold, Stonehouse).