Wentworth, the gritty Australian prison drama, has captivated audiences worldwide with its intense storytelling and unforgettable characters. A modern reimagining of Prisoner: Cell Block H, the series dives deep into the lives of inmates and staff at Wentworth Correctional Centre, delivering raw emotion, complex relationships, and shocking plot twists. If you’re a fan or just diving into the show, here are the five best characters who make Wentworth a must-watch.
1. Bea Smith: The Resilient Queen of Wentworth
Bea Smith, portrayed by Danielle Cormack, is the heart and soul of Wentworth. Starting as a vulnerable newcomer charged with attempted murder, Bea evolves into the formidable “Queen Bea,” ruling the prison with strength and determination. Her journey from a suburban wife and mother to a fearless Top Dog is a masterclass in character development. Fans love her for her loyalty, fierce protectiveness over her daughter, and unwavering resolve against adversaries like Jacs Holt and Joan Ferguson. Bea’s emotional depth and tragic arc make her a standout, with her iconic moments still trending in fan discussions online. Why she shines: Bea’s transformation embodies survival and sacrifice, making her a fan-favorite for those searching for inspiring prison drama characters.
2. Franky Doyle: The Charismatic Rebel
Nicole da Silva’s Francesca “Franky” Doyle is a firecracker of charisma and cunning. A lesbian inmate with a tough exterior, Franky’s charged with assault after throwing boiling oil on a TV presenter—talk about a bold entrance! Her wit, loyalty, and vulnerability, especially in her relationships with Bridget Westfall and Kim Chang, add layers to her rebellious persona. Franky’s journey from Top Dog to legal aide worker showcases her growth, making her a compelling figure for viewers who love complex antiheroes. Why she shines: Franky’s mix of sass, heart, and redemption arcs make her a top search for fans of dynamic TV characters.
3. Joan Ferguson: The Iconic Villain You Love to Hate
Pamela Rabe’s Joan Ferguson, known as “The Freak,” is one of TV’s most chilling villains. Introduced in Season 2, this cunning and manipulative governor takes Wentworth to new heights of suspense. Her psychological warfare against inmates like Bea and Franky, combined with her complex backstory, makes her a character you can’t look away from. Rabe’s masterful performance elevates Joan into a legendary antagonist, often compared to iconic villains like Breaking Bad’s Gus Fring. Why she shines: Joan’s dark charisma and unpredictable schemes make her a hot topic for fans searching for unforgettable TV villains.
4. Rita Connors: The Badass Protector
Rita Connors, played by Leah Purcell, storms into Wentworth in later seasons as a fierce, motorcycle-riding inmate with a heart of gold. Her physical strength, intelligence, and unwavering loyalty to her sister Ruby make her a standout. Rita’s ability to navigate prison politics while protecting those she loves resonates with fans who admire her no-nonsense attitude. Her arc as an undercover cop adds intrigue, making her a fresh addition to the series’ roster. Why she shines: Rita’s strength and moral compass make her a trending character for viewers seeking badass women in prison dramas.
5. Sue “Boomer” Jenkins: The Loyal Muscle with Heart
Katrina Milosevic’s Sue “Boomer” Jenkins brings humor and heart to Wentworth. As Franky’s loyal muscle and later Allie’s second-in-command, Boomer’s blend of brute strength and surprising vulnerability—stemming from Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder—makes her unforgettable. Her journey, including her pregnancy and survival of the prison explosion, adds emotional weight to her character. Why she shines: Boomer’s mix of comedy, loyalty, and resilience makes her a fan-favorite for those searching for relatable and endearing TV characters.
