Speaking about the project, Smith said: “I am so honoured to have been asked to play the role of Ann Ming, a mother so determined to fight for justice for her murdered daughter that she spent 15 years campaigning for the Double Jeopardy Law to be changed. She is a truly courageous and remarkable woman to whom we all owe a debt of gratitude.”

Ming also serves as a consultant on the production, and spoke about her involvement with the show. “I am very pleased that [production company] Hera Pictures will tell the story of my campaign to overturn the Double Jeopardy Law,” she said.

“My daughter’s killer was wrongfully acquitted, and a number of years later confessed to her murder, for which he could only be prosecuted for perjury due to the 800-year-old Double Jeopardy Law. I wasn’t going to let this stand in my way of getting justice for Julie.

“I’m overwhelmed that Sheridan Smith will be playing me. Having such an iconic and talented actor portray me is truly wonderful.”

What is the true story behind ITV drama I Fought The Law, starring Sheridan Smith?