"Orange Is the New Black" was nominated at this year's Golden Globes Awards for Best Musical or Comedy series but lost to "Mozart in the Jungle." Despite this, actress Laverne Cox was able to give a few details regarding the show's upcoming fourth season during the awards night.
"Sophia being placed in solitary confinement is such a real reality that a lot of trans people experience every day in prison, so I love that we go there and deal with this issue," the actress told People.
During the end of season 3, Cox' character Sophia Burset, a transgender woman, was sent to solitary confinement after the climax of a feud with fellow inmate Gloria (Selenis Leyva). Their feud had been going on for the majority of the season and it appears season 4 will explore exactly what goes on with Sophia during her time in solitary prison.
Given the gravity of her statement, fans have speculated that season 4 may see Sophia abused and mistreated in her confinement, even to the point where she is physically abused. While it is unlikely the abuse will end up killing the character off, it still remains a possibility.
Speaking to E! News, Cox also revealed that the season may delve deeper into the criminal justice system in general as well. Speculations arise that this could mean an investigation will go on regarding the inmates or how the prison is treating them. It may even be linked directly to how Sophia is handled in solitary confinement.
Cox also stated during her interview with TV Guide a few months back that there is very little chance Sophia and Gloria will be reconciling any time soon, and it is likely that their feud will continue on in season 4. If the two ever do get back as friends it may take place long after Sophia recovers from her time in solitude.
"Orange Is the New Black" season 4 premieres later this year.
