19 Nov 2025

Feature interview: Unapologetic rock star Joan Jett

From Afternoons, 3:10 pm on 19 November 2025

Beneath the fame, the faux leather, and the decades of trailblazing, Joan Jett is still driven by something simple: the thrill of plugging in a guitar and letting it rip. From her teenage beginnings with The Runaways to her powerhouse years as a solo artist and leader of the Blackhearts, she’s held tight to the same ambition she had at 13; to be onstage in a band, making unapologetic rock music. Joan Jett and the Blackhearts are coming to New Zealand for the Summer Concert Tour with Iggy Pop, Hoodoo Gurus and ZED. Joan Jett’s longtime manager, producer, and creative partner, Kenny Laguna will be coming with her. Using his own money and selling records out of the boot of his car, he was there when The Runaways fell apart. They chat to Jesse. Go here for concert tickets.

Joan Jett.

Joan Jett. Photo: Supplied