EditorsJan 16, 2026
Remembering Pete Yantzer for His Contributions and His Kindness Pete’s boundless curiosity extended beyond diamond cut and he was always eager to share his knowledge with others, no matter the topic.
CrimeFeb 16, 2018
Infamous Jewel Thief Doris Payne Is Getting Her Own Biopic
She will be played by “Thor: Ragnarok” and “Westworld” actress Tessa Thompson.
A still from the trailer for the 2013 documentary “The Life and Crimes of Doris Payne.” Codeblack Films, a division of Lionsgate, now is reportedly producing a biopic about the famed jewel thief.
New York--Infamous jewel thief Doris Payne is getting her own biopic in which she will be played by “Westworld” actress Tessa Thompson.
The actress, whose credits also include “Thor: Ragnarok,” “Creed,” and “Dear White People,” confirmed the news in a Feb. 13 tweet.
After chasing Doris and her story for years— and then keeping this secret for awhile— I’m screaming that this dream is coming true. She is a deeply fascinating woman. So pleased to bring this story to the screen with CodeBlack & Lionsgate. Beyond grateful. https://t.co/GMfigAdwy4
— Tessa Thompson (@TessaThompson_x) February 13, 2018
Variety reports the currently untitled project will be produced by Codeblack Films, a division of Lionsgate.
According to the story, the film is slated to be a “high-concept action-drama” like “Catch Me If You Can,” the movie featuring Leonardo DiCaprio that centered on teenage con artist Frank Abagnale, or “The Thomas Crown Affair,” in which a rich bank executive steals a Monet.
Lionsgate did not respond to a request for more information by press time.
Payne’s career of snatching jewelry from stores spans decades; the now-87-year old has a criminal record dating back to the 1950s.
Her M.O. was to enter a jewelry store posing as an affluent woman and ask staff to see a variety of pieces, charming and distracting them until they forget how many were out and she could walk away with one or two pieces.
In the 1970s, Payne stole a 10-carat diamond ring from Cartier in Monte Carlo. She was later caught by police but was let go when they couldn’t find the ring.
Most recently, Payne pleaded guilty to shoplifting at a Georgia Walmart to avoid jail time.
WATCH: The 2013 documentary “The Life and Crimes of Doris Payne” trailer
{youtube} 69xEABSq5O4{/youtube}
Her life already has received the documentary treatment with the release of “The Life and Crimes of Doris Payne” in 2013. In it, she describes many of her crimes in detail.
Variety reported in 2009 that Halle Berry was slated to play Payne in a new film, but the project never got off the ground.
If Thompson’s Twitter account and reactions are any indication, many people are very intrigued by Payne and excited about the prospect of a biopic.
But Jewelers Security Alliance President John J. Kennedy told National Jeweler that he worries how it might portray Payne.
“I hope any media item or show about Doris Payne doesn’t try to glamorize her or make her stealing seem like fun,” Kennedy said. “The victims she has stolen from over a lifetime are hard-working jewelers who have suffered financially and emotionally due to her unrepentant life of theft.”
He added, “Reality would portray her life as a disgrace.
Editors' Picks
Sponsored by
I believe completely in artistic freedom, but I hope that the sordid truth of her lifelong criminal activity is made clear.”
More on Crime
The Latest
FinancialsJan 16, 2026
Richemont’s Jewelry Brands Shine in Q3Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Buccellati, and Vhernier had another successful holiday season, Richemont reported this week.
TrendsJan 16, 2026
Diane Lane's Brooch Buzzes at the 2026 Golden GlobesOur Piece of the Week is Lagos’ “Bee” brooch that was seen on the red carpet for the first time on Sunday.
Brought to you by
How Jewelers Can Fight Back Against Cell JammersCriminals are using cell jammers to disable alarms, but new technology like JamAlert™ can stop them.
Events & AwardsJan 15, 2026
Jewelers of Americas’ ‘20 Under 40’ Nominations Now OpenThe program recognizes rising professionals in the jewelry industry.
Weekly QuizJan 15, 2026
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
Events & AwardsJan 15, 2026
Registration for JCK Las Vegas 2026 Is Now OpenA new lifestyle section and a watch showcase have been added to this year’s event.
TrendsJan 15, 2026
Don’t Double-Dip With This Golden ChipAvocados From Mexico is celebrating those who love to double-dip in game day guacamole with a 14-karat yellow gold tortilla chip necklace.
Brought to you by
Impacting Tomorrow TodayHow Jewelers of America’s 20 Under 40 are leading to ensure a brighter future for the jewelry industry.
SourcingJan 15, 2026
Nearly 42-Carat Blue Diamond Discovered in South AfricaPetra Diamonds unearthed the 41.82-carat, Type IIb blue diamond at the Cullinan Mine.
CollectionsJan 14, 2026
Marie Lichtenberg Lassos Leather for New BraceletsThe brand is trading its colorful fabric cords for Italian leather in its “Lasso” baby locket bracelets.
TechnologyJan 14, 2026
“My Next Question” Enters Its Podcast Era National Jeweler and Jewelers of America’s popular webinar series is evolving in 2026.
MajorsJan 14, 2026
Saks Files for Bankruptcy, Names New CEOThe department store chain owes millions to creditors like David Yurman, Roberto Coin, Kering, and LVMH.
CollectionsJan 14, 2026
Boucheron Names Colman Domingo as Brand AmbassadorThe award-winning actor’s visionary approach and creativity echo the spirit of Boucheron, the brand said.
IndependentsJan 14, 2026
Kansas Jeweler Wins 2025 ‘Wag’ AwardEdge Retail Academy honored Burnell’s Fine Jewelry in Wichita, Kansas, with its annual award for business excellence.
ColumnistsJan 13, 2026
2025 Was a ‘Price Up, Units Down’ Year, Here’s What That Signals for 2026 In a market defined by more selective consumers, Sherry Smith shares why execution will be independent jewelers’ key to growth this year.
IndependentsJan 13, 2026
Orr’s Jewelers Opens New Location in Pittsburgh’s Strip DistrictThe family-owned jeweler’s new space is in a former wholesale produce market.
SourcingJan 13, 2026
Rio Grande To Offer Calibrated Diamond MeleeThe supplier’s online program allows customers to search and buy calibrated natural and lab-grown diamond melee, including in fancy shapes.
Events & AwardsJan 13, 2026
NYC Jewelry, Antique, & Object Show Announces Winter EventThe new show will take place Jan. 23-25, 2026.
PodcastsJan 12, 2026
Introducing My Next Question, the PodcastA monthly podcast series for jewelry professionals
EditorsJan 12, 2026
Platinum, White Gold Rule the 2026 Golden GlobesAssociate Editor Natalie Francisco highlights her favorite jewelry moments from the Golden Globes, and they are (mostly) white hot.
GradingJan 12, 2026
Peter Yantzer, Former Executive Director of AGS Labs, Dies at 77 Yantzer is remembered for the profound influence he had on diamond cut grading as well as his contagious smile and quick wit.
MajorsJan 12, 2026
These 14 Macy’s Locations Will Close This YearThe store closures are part of the retailer’s “Bold New Chapter” turnaround plan.
MajorsJan 12, 2026
Jewelers Mutual Acquires AI-Powered Event Insurance ProgramThrough EventGuard, the company will offer event liability and cancellation insurance, including wedding coverage.
MajorsJan 09, 2026
Kendra Scott Taps Activewear Exec as CEO Chris Blakeslee has experience at Athleta and Alo Yoga. Kendra Scott will remain on board as executive chair and chief visionary officer.
SurveysJan 09, 2026
U.S. Holiday Retail Sales Up 4%, Visa, Mastercard SayThe credit card companies’ surveys examined where consumers shopped, what they bought, and what they valued this holiday season.
AuctionsJan 09, 2026
Christie’s Names New Global Managing Director for LuxuryKimberly Miller has been promoted to the role.
CollectionsJan 09, 2026
Piece of the Week: Lionheart’s ‘Serenity’ Opal CharmThe “Serenity” charm set with 13 opals is a modern amulet offering protection, guidance, and intention, the brand said.
