Sophie Turner Shares Her Daily Struggles as a Single Mother

Sophie Turner recently opened up about her immense challenges as a single mother. The 28-year-old British actress, known for her iconic role in Game of Thrones, has publicly acknowledged the toll that balancing her career and motherhood has taken on her life. During an interview, Turner revealed how filming her new ITV drama Joan mirrored her personal struggles as she navigated single parenthood while finalizing her divorce from Joe Jonas.

Sophie Turner Reflects on the Struggles of Single Motherhood

In Joan, Turner plays Joan Hannington, a notorious jewel thief whose determination to reunite with her daughter defines her character. The timing of this role felt particularly poignant for Turner, who was going through a separation from Jonas. She admitted that portraying a fiercely protective mother resonated deeply with her own experience of being separated from her children during filming. Turner described single motherhood as a “daily struggle,” expressing the pressure and emotional weight she carries.

Billboard | MSN | Turner described single motherhood as a “daily struggle,” expressing the pressure and emotional weight she carries.

Strength Through Her Role in Joan

For Turner, the experience of filming Joan gave her a new perspective on both her role as a mother and as an actress. She explained how difficult it was to bring the same energy to her work amidst personal turmoil. However, the strength of Hannington’s character inspired Turner. She drew parallels between the fictional mother’s fight to protect her child and her own efforts to maintain stability for her daughters. Turner found her character’s determination uplifting, helping her navigate the complexities of her own life.

Judgments Faced by Mothers

Turner also spoke candidly about the judgment mothers often endure. Mothers face scrutiny, whether working or staying home, and this societal pressure weighed heavily on Turner. She emphasized the emotional challenges that come with motherhood, stating, “There’s so much shame that comes with motherhood.” The pressure to be perfect in both work and family life often leaves mothers feeling guilty, no matter their choice. This reality became even more apparent to Turner during her transition to single motherhood.

The Support Turner Received During Filming

Throughout her separation and filming, Turner found solace in the support of her crew. While her children were apart from her, a friend from the crew moved in to keep her company, ensuring she wasn’t left to face the loneliness alone. Turner described how the camaraderie and friendship on set helped her through one of the most challenging periods of her life. Having a supportive community allowed her to push through the emotional difficulties of balancing work and personal life.

Julia Gray | MSN | Having a supportive community allowed Sophie Turner to push through the emotional difficulties of balancing work and personal life.

Turner credited the crew for being a crucial source of emotional support. She expressed how their presence prevented her from feeling isolated during the filming process. After long, challenging days on set, she knew she wouldn’t come home to an empty space, which made all the difference. This support system allowed Turner to manage the heavy demands of her career while grappling with the heartbreak and emotional stress of single motherhood.

Despite the personal challenges, Turner continued to push forward in her career. Playing Joan Hannington—a woman driven by desperation to reunite with her child—had a transformative effect on Turner herself. She explained how the role required immense strength and resilience, qualities that Turner had to embody in her personal life. In many ways, the portrayal of Joan became cathartic for the actress, helping her channel her own struggles into the character’s fierce determination.