10 Underrated Jo Joyner TV Shows That Deserve a Second Watch

Jo Joyner has graced our screens for decades, delivering compelling performances across a diverse range of television shows. While she’s undoubtedly a familiar face, particularly from her long-running role in a certain iconic soap opera, I’ve noticed that many of her other remarkable contributions often fly under the radar.

As an keen observer of television, I believe it’s time we shine a spotlight on some of these hidden gems. In this article, I want to guide you through what I consider to be 10 underrated Jo Joyner TV shows that deserve a second watch, offering a fresh perspective on her versatile acting prowess beyond her most prominent roles.

Before we delve into her lesser-known triumphs, let’s take a moment to appreciate the actress herself. Here are some personal details about Jo Joyner:

Detail	Information
Full Name	Joanne Mary Joyner
Date of Birth	24 May 1977 (as of September 2025)
Place of Birth	Harlow, Essex, England
Occupation	Actress
Spouse	Neil Madden
Children	Twins, Fred and Edie
Notable Roles	Tanya Branning in EastEnders, Luella Shakespeare in Shakespeare & Hathaway: Private Investigators

Why Jo Joyner’s Lesser-Known Roles Deserve Recognition

Often, actors become so synonymous with one particular character that their broader body of work can be overlooked. Jo Joyner’s talent, however, extends far beyond the confines of a single role. Her ability to inhabit vastly different characters, from gritty drama to lighthearted comedy, showcases a depth and range that warrants closer examination.

These underrated Jo Joyner TV shows often provide a more nuanced look at her capabilities, revealing subtle performances and complex characterizations that might have been overshadowed by other mainstream productions.

10 Underrated Jo Joyner TV Shows That Deserve a Second Watch

Based on my analysis of her extensive filmography and critical reception, I have curated a list of shows where Jo Joyner truly shines, often in unexpected ways.

1. No Angels (2004-2006)

In this Channel 4 comedy-drama, Jo Joyner played Donna, one of four nurses working in a chaotic and often darkly humorous hospital setting. While perhaps not as overtly dramatic as some of her later roles, her portrayal of Donna was notable for its grounded realism and comedic timing.

The show offered a frank, unglamorous look at nursing life, balancing poignant moments with laugh-out-loud situations. A second watch allows for an appreciation of the ensemble cast’s chemistry and Joyner’s early ability to blend humor with vulnerability.

2. North Square (2000)

This legal drama saw Joyner in an earlier role as secretary Rosie Sattar. Despite being a relatively short-lived series, North Square was critically acclaimed for its sharp writing and realistic depiction of the legal world.

Joyner’s performance, though not central, contributed significantly to the show’s authentic atmosphere. Revisiting this series provides insight into her formative years as an actress and her consistent ability to deliver credible performances even in supporting roles.

3. Perfect Parents (2006)

This unsettling two-part ITV drama featured Joyner alongside Christopher Eccleston. She played an ordinary woman whose life spirals into crisis due to her son’s alleged crime. The series delves into the moral complexities and desperate measures parents might take, showcasing Joyner’s capacity for intense emotional portrayal. It’s a powerful, often uncomfortable watch that highlights her dramatic range outside of long-running soap narratives.

4. Ordinary Lies (2015)

In the first series of this anthology drama, Jo Joyner portrayed Beth, a call centre manager whose seemingly ordinary life is masking a significant personal struggle. Each episode focused on a different character’s secret, and Joyner’s storyline was particularly gripping, exploring themes of grief and identity.

Her performance was nuanced and empathetic, allowing viewers to connect deeply with a character facing immense pressure. It’s a testament to her ability to carry a compelling narrative arc within a limited series.

5. Marley’s Ghosts (2015-2016)

This quirky Gold comedy series saw Joyner in a much lighter, yet still significant, role as a recurring character. It centers on a woman who can see and speak to ghosts. While her role wasn’t always central, Joyner’s appearances added a distinct flavor to the show’s unique comedic premise.

It’s an example of her versatility, proving she can comfortably navigate more surreal and comedic narratives, making her contributions worth a second look for those who enjoy supernatural comedy.

6. Mount Pleasant (2011-2017)

Joyner joined the cast of this Sky 1 comedy-drama for its later seasons, playing Jane. The series chronicles the lives of a close-knit community in a Manchester suburb. Her character brought fresh dynamics to the existing ensemble, fitting seamlessly into the established tone.

While the show enjoyed a loyal following, Joyner’s later contributions are often overshadowed by the initial seasons. Her performance here demonstrates her ability to integrate effectively into an ongoing, character-driven series.

7. Candy Cabs (2011)

This BBC One comedy-drama focused on two friends who start an all-female taxi company. Jo Joyner played Sally, one of the central figures navigating the challenges of a new business and personal lives.

The series was a feel-good watch, celebrating female friendship and resilience. While it had a short run, Joyner’s energetic and relatable performance as Sally is a highlight, offering a different facet of her acting portfolio.

8. The Grimleys (1999-2001)

Set in the 1970s, this ITV comedy-drama provided a nostalgic look at family life. Joyner appeared as a younger actress in this series, playing multiple characters across its run. It’s an interesting watch to see her in a formative period, showcasing her early comedic timing and adaptability. Fans who have primarily seen her in more serious roles will appreciate her youthful energy and comedic potential evident in these early performances.

9. Trying Again (2014)

In this Sky 1 comedy series, Joyner played Meg, half of a couple attempting to mend their relationship after an affair. The show offered a realistic, often uncomfortable, yet humorous look at the complexities of modern relationships.

Joyner’s performance was lauded for its authenticity and emotional depth, particularly in portraying the struggles of trust and forgiveness. It’s a compelling watch for its honest depiction of marital challenges, with Joyner at its heart.

10. Citizen Khan (2012-2016)

While known primarily as a sitcom, Jo Joyner had a guest role in an episode of Citizen Khan as a character named Penny. This appearance showcases her ability to dip into pure comedy, contrasting sharply with her more dramatic roles.

Her brief but memorable turn in this popular series is a good example of her willingness to explore different genres and contribute effectively to ensemble comedy, making it worth noting for a comprehensive view of her work.

Conclusion

Jo Joyner’s career is a testament to her enduring talent and adaptability. While some roles have undeniably garnered more mainstream attention, it’s in these often-overlooked television shows that we can truly appreciate the breadth of her acting range. From the gritty realism of No Angels to the emotional complexity of Perfect Parents and the understated charm of Trying Again, her performances consistently elevate the material.

I encourage any admirer of compelling television, or simply a fan of Jo Joyner, to give these underrated Jo Joyner TV shows that deserve a second watch a try. You might just discover a new favorite and gain a deeper appreciation for an actress who has quietly, yet powerfully, shaped British television for over two decades.