Maxine is an unique prisoner at Wentworth Prison.  She is a transgender that had completed gender reassignment before being assigned to a life behind bars.

This article contains spoilers so if you haven’t Wentworth, please do not continue reading.

Maxine was formerly Max before she made the decision to pursue a life as a woman.  Unfortunately due to a violent incident with the man she loved, Gary, Maxine ended up in prison. When we meet her in Season 2, Maxine sports a blonde shoulder length wig and receives rude comments from both prisoners and guards for having the obviously physical appearance of a male. Matt Fletcher often demands Maxine do heavy lifting, looking on her as more male than female.

Franky Doyle doesn’t have a problem with Maxine’s height or strength, obviously reasoning her to be the perfect new member to join her crew. With Boomer and Maxine, Franky reasons she’ll be untouchable.

Maxine however prefers to keep as low a profile as possible.  This all changes when Vera thwarted her attempts to escape to run off with Gary. In the process, Maxine’s blonde wig is taken away and she suffers an additional identity crisis.  Fortunately, she has befriended Bea Smith after saving Bea from a fatal stabbing.

Bea and Maxine become close friends and support each other with a listening ear and guidance when needed. Maxine also becomes part of Bea’s crew as well as her enforcer when Bea becomes “Queen Bea” and Wentworth’s top dog.  Maxine cares deeply for Bea and is a loyal friend.  She may be the closest friend Bea has ever had.

What do you think of Maxine and her friendship with Bea? Sound off in the comments. Or tweet @thenerdygirlexp and @stacyamiller85 .