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ITV Joan stars defend real-life criminal after show sparks controversy
Joan: Frank Dillane asked if series 'glamourises' crime
The stars of ITV drama Joan have defended the real-life inspiration behind the hit show.
Joan sees Sophie Turner play the titular role, based on the real life story of Joan Hannington. In a bid to make ends meet, and reunite with her daughter, Joan turns into a jewellery thief to raise the cash she so desperately needs.
Desperate for a new start, she runs away from her ex, a criminal named Gary, and soon, her world collides with Bosie Hannington, who introduces her to antiques, and she soon becomes one of London's greatest jewel thiefs.
The show has been hit with controversy after some accused the programme of glamorising crime. However, two of the stars - who play Boisie and Albie on the show - have defended the real-life Joan.
Frank Dillane and Gershwyn Eustache Junior spoke about the real-life Joan on This Morning (Image: ITV)
Speaking on the show today, Frank said: "I think when you don't have much and you have certain cards that you're dealt. She lifted diamonds off people that had a lot of money. I think we can forgive her for that, personally that's where I stand.
"I guess, in this show, a mother's love can transcend morality. I think that's also what we tap into."
Gershwyn also shared his thoughts, adding: "I think both in terms of direction and the way Sophie has played it on the show, you always feel that driving force is there with 'I need to do this for myself and my daughter'.
"I get what you're saying about glamorising crime but we hear so much about criminals of the past if they were men. She's been dealt with the cards she's been dealt and she's not trying to hurt anyone, but it's definitely a grey area."
Frank and Gershwyn spoke to Cat and Ben (Image: ITV)
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Joan has always been adamant she only stole from those who could afford it and never felt guilty for her crimes. In her book, she recalled the moment she stole £800,000 worth of diamonds.
"One day, I was sent to the safe at the back of the shop, where the CCTV cameras didn’t operate, to collect some loose diamonds. I opened the safe and trays of brilliant white stones glittered back at me," she wrote in her book.
"My heart galloping, I grabbed a handful of diamonds off each tray and swallowed them. I didn’t know it at the time, but I’d swallowed about £800,000 of stones."
Joan was arrested at the age of 24 for using a stolen checkbook and was sentenced to 30 months in prison but she never faced time for stealing any of the jewels.
The next episode of Joan airs on ITV1 this evening and is on ITVX in full now
