Sonia Stevens
Sonia Stevens | |
|---|---|
| Occupation(s) | Entrepreneur, criminal (fictional character) |
| Known for | Character in the TV series Wentworth |
Sonia Stevens is a figure in the series Wentworth. Initially introduced as a secondary antagonist during the fourth and fifth seasons, she ascends to the role of main antagonist in the sixth season following Joan Ferguson's exit. The character is brought to life by Sigrid Thornton, who had a prior role in the original Prisoner series as Ros Coulson.
Background and development
According to the official Wentworth site, Sonia is portrayed as a wealthy entrepreneur who built a cosmetics empire that originally belonged to her late spouse, Geoffrey Stevens. Unlike Geoffrey, who hailed from affluence and explored various business ventures, Sonia is depicted as driven, diligent, and unrelenting in pursuing her ambitions. She is prepared to navigate challenges and use her charisma to influence powerful individuals for her benefit.
A spokesperson referred to Thornton’s casting as an ideal choice and commended the writers for crafting Sonia’s character arc and narrative depth.
Thornton described Sonia's departure from the series as a decisive "all or nothing" turning point for her character.
Storylines
Sonia makes her first appearance in Season 4, Episode 6, titled Divide and Conquer, where she is incarcerated at Wentworth pending trial for the alleged murder of her friend Helen Masters. With only indirect evidence against her, Detective Don Kaplan enlists Liz Birdsworth (Celia Ireland) by offering parole if she secures a confession from Sonia. Despite Liz’s persistent efforts throughout Season 4, Sonia consistently denies any wrongdoing. However, Liz becomes increasingly convinced of Sonia’s culpability after an enigmatic clue in the season finale suggests her involvement.
In Season 5, Sonia remains emotionally detached. Don Kaplan pressures Liz into perjury, and despite cautions from Doreen Anderson (Shareena Clanton), Liz complies. Nevertheless, Sonia’s defense successfully discredits Liz’s statement, resulting in Sonia’s release. That night, Don visits Sonia and reveals their underlying scheme. Flashbacks disclose that Sonia murdered Helen to prevent blackmail linked to her husband’s suspicious death and enlisted Don’s assistance in concealing the crime. Unable to legally shield Sonia, Don manipulates Liz into becoming a fall guy. When questioned about Geoffrey Stevens’ whereabouts, Sonia reluctantly consents to disclose the location of his body but secretly plots Don's assassination. Anticipating this move, Don overpowers her, escapes overseas, and anonymously informs authorities. Subsequently, Sonia is apprehended for Geoffrey’s murder.