The series Joan is set to air on ITV on September 29, starring Game of Thrones legend Sophie Turner as the titular character. Set in the colourful backdrop of 1980s London, the series chronicles the life of a council house mum who became the UK's biggest diamond thief. Drawing inspiration from the real-life Joan Hannington and events from her life, the thrilling drama also features Frank Dillaine, Kirsty J Curtis, Gershwyn Eustache Jnr and Laura Aikman.
The real Joan fled home at 13, and by 17, she was married to her first husband, convicted armed robber Ray Pavey. She had a daughter but after parting ways with her first husband, her life spiralled into chaos. She later met her second husband, Ronald Thomas Hannington, also known as Benny Boisie (portrayed by Dillaine).
Benny, 17 years Joan's senior, led a double life as an antiques dealer and thief. Their paths first crossed in a London pub when Joan found herself in a brawl with a police informant. Boisie intervened to assist her and within weeks of the incident, he had moved in with her.
He educated Joan about his work, taking her to auctions and teaching her how to distinguish between genuine and counterfeit antiques, reports the Mirror . He also attempted to help Joan regain custody of her daughter from social services, but to no avail, as the child was content with her foster parents. SOPHIE TURNER as Joan and FRANK DILLANE as Boisie (Image: ITV) In 1980, Joan and Benny tied the knot at Acton Register Office and after s.