On September 22, 2002, Laura Zapata and Ernestina Sodi, sisters of Thalía, were kidnapped by a criminal organization after leaving a theater in Mexico City, where Zapata had performed in the play 'The House of Bernarda Alba.' Both lived through a traumatic kidnapping that lasted about 45 days and permanently fractured their family relationship. Ernestina Sodi recently published a book titled 'Deliver Us from Evil' in which she details her experience during this event.
In her memoirs, Sodi contradicts many situations previously narrated by her sister Laura Zapata, especially regarding the release and what happened during captivity. Ernestina mentions that it was Thalía who negotiated with the kidnappers for their release and that she was a victim of rape during the time in captivity. These claims caused controversy and tensions within the family, especially by accusing Laura Zapata of intervening to prolong their kidnapping. This led to a rupture in family ties, not only with Laura Zapata and Ernestina Sodi but also with Thalía's other sisters.
Upon learning of her sister's statements, Laura Zapata expressed her surprise and bewilderment at what was written in Ernestina's book. Zapata mentioned that it was a moment of anguish and confusion and claimed that the kidnapping had been orchestrated by her own sister to take advantage of Thalía and her husband. Laura argued that Ernestina's claims were inaccurate and that until the last moment together, the kidnappers did not harm either of them.
Ernestina Sodi has shared in subsequent interviews that it took her a long time to process and talk about what she experienced during the kidnapping, given that society tends to blame victims in these cases. Despite the discrepancies and controversies generated by her memoirs, Ernestina continues to share details about her traumatic experience. Recently it was reported that she is hospitalized after suffering two heart attacks, and her health condition remains serious.
