Joan Hodges

**Joan Hodges**

Joan Hodges emerged as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, beginning her journey as one of the inaugural Playboy Bunny Girls in 1965. Her training at the Chicago Playboy Club paved the way for her to return to England in 1966, where she played a pivotal role in auditioning and training British women for the opening of the London Playboy Club on Park Lane. During this time, she caught the attention of Frank Sinatra, leading to her appearance in his film *The Naked Runner*.

In October 1966, Joan married Chas Hodges from the musical duo Chas & Dave and opted to dedicate herself to raising their three children: Juliet, Kate, who has made a name for herself as a singer-songwriter (kategarnermusic.com), and Nik, a musician and film/TV composer (nikhodges.com). The family has since expanded to include granddaughter Charlie Hodges, a fashion designer (saccharineshrine.com), and grandson Harry Garner.

In 1992, Joan pursued her dream of acting by enrolling at the Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts as a mature student. After graduating, she joined The Millfield Theatre Company in North London, making her professional debut as the Nurse in *Romeo & Juliet*. Her television career took off with a role in *London’s Burning*, leading to her significant break in 1997 with the BBC comedy-drama *Roger Roger*, where she portrayed Marilyn for three series. Joan’s impressive credits also include roles in *Hot Money*, *Fierce*, *The Bill*, and a memorable appearance in the *Only Fools & Horses* Christmas Special in 2001. A proud member of The Actors' Guild of Great Britain and Women in Film & Television, Joan Hodges continues to be an influential figure in the industry.