Sophie Turner admits being a single mother is a “struggle” and reveals her character Joan’s role in the new series gave her “strength” when Joe Jonas’ divorce occurred

Sophie Turner has openly admitted being a single mother is a “struggle” following her divorce from Joe Jonas.

The 28-year-old Game Of Thrones actress was speaking in a new interview ahead of Sunday night’s broadcast of her new six-part crime series Joan, in which she portrays the real-life Joan “The Godmother” Hannington.

On September 11, it was reported that Sophie and her estranged husband Joe, 35, of the Jonas Brothers, had finally finalized their year-long divorce.

The proceedings were delayed by a heated conflict between the two over custody arrangements for their children, daughters Willa, four, and Delphine, two.

Last Monday, Sophie took to Instagram with her boyfriend, aristocrat Peregrine Pearson, delighting her fans. She married Joe in 2019.

About her new role as mother Joan, Sophie told The Times: “Joan has changed me quite a bit.” From utter desperation comes so much will and ambition.

“The series came about at a time in my life where I had to be ambitious and have such a strong will and fight against the powers that be. She gave me a lot of strength.

“If I hadn’t been a mother, I don’t know if I would have been able to bring the same energy that I did.” “It’s such a struggle being a single mother.”

Earlier this week, Sophie admitted she was “overwhelmed” with emotions while filming ITV series Joan after she started working on the series during her divorce from Joe.

The series follows Joan’s journey from housewife and mother to petty criminal, diamond thief and criminal mastermind in 1980s London.

In a press conference for the show, Sophie explained that she had no problem turning on the waterworks, saying: “I’m a fish, I’m emotional.”

Speaking about her new role as mother Joan, Sophie said: “She’s so funny, but she’s been through so much trauma and is so ambitious.”

“She really has so much to offer – mother, lover, liar, thief.” “It’s just remarkable that it’s all a true story.”

The drama follows Joan, who escapes her abusive husband but must take care of her daughter to get back on her feet.

Since she has no money and no place to stay, she manages to secure a job at a jeweler from whom she steals her first diamonds.

Her life takes a turn for the better when she meets antiques dealer Boisie, played by Harry Potter actor Frank Dillane, who takes her on as his partner in crime.

Sophie also said how she taps into her emotions: “And I’m a mother, so anything to do with children just flows out.” I think sometimes when you do a show like this and there’s diamonds and glamour, you get carried away by everything.”

“You have to remember that this is to give their daughter a solid and stable life so she can get it back. “And it really is a heartbreaking story.”

Sophie said of Frank: “We really became very close through it.” It was essential that we had a good relationship and I think I fell in love with Frank a little bit artistically because the way he works is so fascinating. I really relied on him for a lot of things, the emotional things.

Frank says the feeling was mutual. “Sophie is so easy to love,” he says. “I just thought it was fun.”

Sophie spent three weeks listening to Wham, ABC, The Pretenders and Bucks Fizz to immerse herself in the 80s character. Author Anna Symon says the drama is based entirely on Joan’s 2002 memoir I Am What I Am.

Joan said: “I was fascinated.” She is such a complex and extraordinary woman, vulnerable and strong. She makes some terrible decisions but is someone people can relate to.”

The real Joan Hannington, now retired from stealing, was delighted with Sophie’s portrayal. Speaking at a launch event in London with her son Benny, she said: “I’m a bit jealous.” [of Sophie]she is slimmer and younger.

“They couldn’t have found anyone better – kudos to them. I hope they get the recognition they deserve.”

Joan begins on Sunday September 29th on ITV1 and ITVX