Wentworth Prison

Watch Wentworth Prison

  • 1969

Wentworth Prison is a drama television series produced by Fremantle Media. This Australian show is set in the fictional Wentworth Correctional Centre, a maximum-security women's prison in Victoria. The series follows the lives and experiences of the inmates and the prison staff, as they deal with various challenges and struggles.

The main character of the show is Bea Smith, a housewife who is imprisoned for the attempted murder of her abusive husband. She is initially bewildered by the harsh realities of prison life, but she quickly learns the ropes and becomes one of the most respected inmates. She also becomes involved in the power struggles within the prison, as she clashes with the top dog, Jacs Holt, and the corrupt Governor, Joan Ferguson.

The show also features a large ensemble cast of other inmates, each with their own individual storylines and backstories. These include Franky Doyle, a young lesbian who is serving time for a string of robberies; Liz Birdsworth, an older woman who is in prison for fraud; and Doreen Anderson, a pregnant inmate who struggles with addiction.

The staff of Wentworth Correctional Centre are also an important part of the show. The Governor, Joan Ferguson, is a formidable figure who is obsessed with maintaining order and control within the prison. She clashes with Bea and other inmates, and is revealed to have a dark past of her own. Other staff members include Meg Jackson, a kind-hearted officer who tries to do what's right; and Will Jackson, a male officer who works in the women's prison and struggles to balance his job with his personal life.

Wentworth Prison is known for its grittiness and realism. The show doesn't shy away from depicting the harsh realities of prison life, including violence, drug use, and sexual assault. However, it also explores the complex relationships and alliances that can form within such a confined and high-pressure environment.

The show has received critical acclaim for its strong performances, particularly from lead actress Danielle Cormack who plays Bea Smith. It has also been praised for its diverse cast and for its exploration of complex social issues, including domestic violence, addiction, and sexuality.

Wentworth Prison has been compared to the American show Orange is the New Black, which also focuses on the lives of female inmates. However, Wentworth is known for its darker tone and more serious approach to storytelling.

Overall, Wentworth Prison is a compelling and intense drama that explores the complexities of prison life and the human experience. It is a gripping show that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats, and is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever faced adversity or struggled to survive in a challenging environment.