Sarah Ann Akers, professionally known as Suranne Jones, was born on 27 August 1978 in Chadderton, Greater Manchester, England. Growing up in a tight-knit family, Jones discovered her passion for acting at a young age. Her parents, Jenny and Chris Jones, were supportive of her ambitions, recognizing her talent early on. Suranne attended the Oldham Theatre Workshop, a renowned institution that has produced numerous successful actors, which laid the foundation for her acting career.
Breakthrough with Coronation Street
Jones's big break came in 2000 when she joined the cast of ITV’s Coronation Street as Karen McDonald. Her portrayal of the feisty and complex character earned her widespread acclaim. During her four-year stint on the show, she became one of the most recognizable faces on British television. Her performance was pivotal in boosting the show's ratings, and it was reported that she was earning around £100,000 per year during her tenure.
Transition to Drama
After leaving Coronation Street in 2004, Jones sought to diversify her acting portfolio. She starred in Vincent (2005-2006), a gritty crime drama alongside Ray Winstone, and Strictly Confidential (2006), a series penned by her frequent collaborator Sally Wainwright. These roles showcased her versatility and helped her transition from soap opera to more serious drama.
Collaboration with Sally Wainwright
Jones's professional relationship with Sally Wainwright has been one of the most significant aspects of her career. Wainwright, known for her strong, character-driven narratives, cast Jones in several of her projects, including Unforgiven (2009) and Scott & Bailey (2011-2016). The latter, a police procedural drama, was particularly successful, running for five series and establishing Jones as a leading actress in British television.
Doctor Foster
One of Jones's most acclaimed roles came in 2015 when she starred in Doctor Foster, a psychological thriller written by Mike Bartlett. Her portrayal of Dr. Gemma Foster, a woman who discovers her husband's infidelity, earned her critical acclaim and numerous awards, including a BAFTA TV Award for Best Actress in 2016. The show was a commercial success, with its second season drawing an average of 8.9 million viewers per episode.
West End Success
In addition to her television work, Jones has also made a mark on the stage. She starred in the West End production of A Few Good Men in 2005 alongside Rob Lowe, showcasing her ability to command a live audience. Her theater work has been praised for its intensity and emotional depth, earning her a reputation as a formidable stage actress.
Personal Life
Jones married magazine editor Laurence Akers in 2015. The couple has been relatively private about their personal life, but it is known that they have one child. Jones has been open about her struggles with mental health, particularly after the birth of her son, advocating for greater awareness and support for mental health issues.
Financial Success
Suranne Jones's successful career has brought her considerable financial rewards. As of 2023, her net worth is estimated to be around £3 million. This wealth has been accumulated through her various acting roles, production work, and endorsements. Notably, her role in Doctor Foster significantly boosted her earnings, with reports suggesting she was paid £200,000 per series.
Production Ventures
In recent years, Jones has expanded her career into production. She co-founded TeamAkers Productions with her husband in 2018, aiming to create content that champions strong female narratives. One of their first projects was Save Me Too (2020), a critically acclaimed drama series in which Jones also starred.
Advocacy and Charity Work
Jones is known for her philanthropic efforts. She supports several charities, including Mind, a mental health charity, and The Albert Kennedy Trust, which helps LGBTQ+ youth facing homelessness. She has used her platform to raise awareness and funds, participating in various campaigns and events.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout her career, Jones has received numerous awards and nominations. In addition to her BAFTA, she has won a National Television Award and a Royal Television Society Award. Her work has been consistently praised for its depth, authenticity, and emotional resonance.
Current and Future Projects
As of 2023, Jones continues to be a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. She is set to star in and produce several upcoming projects, including a new drama series for BBC One. Her commitment to her craft and her ability to tackle diverse roles ensure that she remains at the forefront of British television and film.
Conclusion
Suranne Jones's journey from a soap opera star to an award-winning actress and producer is a testament to her talent, versatility, and determination. Her collaborations with renowned writers and her successful transition to drama have solidified her status as one of the leading actresses of her generation. With a flourishing career and a growing influence in the industry, Jones's impact on British entertainment continues to be profound.
