Ernestina Sodi, the beloved sister of international pop star Thalía and mother of actress Camila Sodi, was a remarkable woman whose life reflected courage, creativity, and resilience. Her passing on November 8, 2024, in Mexico City at the age of 64 marked the end of an era for a family deeply rooted in Mexico’s artistic and cultural scene. Known not only for her family connections but also for her achievements as a journalist, historian, and author, Ernestina Sodi lived a life full of challenges, triumphs, and contributions that continue to inspire.
Her story is one of personal strength, intellectual accomplishment, and a commitment to shedding light on social issues. From her early days in Mexico City to her career in literature, her traumatic kidnapping, and her role as a devoted mother, Ernestina’s life offers lessons in perseverance, creativity, and the enduring power of family. In this article, we explore the many facets of Ernestina Sodi’s life, her works, her family, and the legacy she leaves behind.
Quick Bio Information
Name: Ernestina Sodi Miranda
Birth Date: July 24, 1960
Death Date: November 8, 2024
Age At Death: 64
Profession: Journalist, Historian, Author
Notable Works: Líbranos del mal, Los cerezos negros, Águeda, la última mariposa de papel
Children: Camila Sodi, Marina Sodi
Sisters: Thalía, Laura Zapata, Gabriela Sodi, Federica Sodi
Place Of Death: Mexico City, Mexico
Early Career: Miss Distrito Federal 1977, Model, Pageant Participant
Education: Modern Letters, Art History, Specialized Training in Aesthetics
Early Life And Education
Ernestina Sodi Miranda was born on July 24, 1960, in Mexico City, into a family that valued culture, art, and intellect. The Sodi family has a rich heritage in Mexico, with several members excelling in music, acting, and public service. Ernestina’s upbringing was shaped by an environment that encouraged curiosity, learning, and creative expression.
She pursued higher education with determination, studying Modern Letters and earning a degree in Art History. Her academic path was further enriched by specialized training in aesthetics, equipping her with a deep understanding of art, literature, and cultural criticism. These formative years laid the foundation for her future work as a writer, historian, and social commentator. Ernestina’s education not only shaped her professional life but also influenced the themes and depth of her literary work, particularly her focus on social issues affecting women and vulnerable communities.
From Pageants To Print: Ernestina’s Early Career
Before establishing herself as a writer and journalist, Ernestina Sodi explored the world of modeling and pageantry. In 1977, she won the title of Miss Distrito Federal, a recognition that highlighted her grace, poise, and public presence. Her participation in beauty contests was not just about appearances but also about developing confidence and public communication skills that would later serve her in journalism and writing.
Transitioning from modeling to the literary and academic world, Ernestina combined her public experience with her intellectual interests. Her early career in journalism allowed her to engage with societal issues, analyze cultural phenomena, and refine her voice as a writer. This period of her life demonstrated her versatility, adaptability, and determination to excel across different domains.
A Voice For Change: Ernestina Sodi’s Career As A Writer And Historian
Ernestina Sodi’s work as a journalist and historian was characterized by a commitment to truth, social awareness, and human rights advocacy. Her training in Modern Letters and Art History gave her a unique perspective, allowing her to explore complex social themes with clarity and depth.
She used her voice to address difficult topics, particularly those affecting women and marginalized communities. Her career reflected an awareness of the power of storytelling to educate, inform, and advocate for change. Ernestina’s writing bridged personal experience with broader social concerns, making her a respected figure in both literary and journalistic circles in Mexico.
Ernestina Sodi’s Most Powerful Works
Ernestina Sodi’s literary contributions are significant and enduring. Her works combine personal narrative, social commentary, and fictional storytelling to explore themes of trauma, resilience, and social justice.
Her nonfiction book, Líbranos del mal (Deliver Us From Evil), recounts the harrowing 2002 kidnapping she experienced alongside her sister Laura Zapata. The book provides an intimate look at the physical and psychological toll of the ordeal, while also offering insight into the broader context of crime and social vulnerability in Mexico.
In Los cerezos negros (The Black Cherry Tree), published in 2011, Ernestina tackled the issue of human trafficking through fiction. The novel follows the story of two young Mexican women deceived by promises of modeling careers in Japan, exposing the dangers of sexual exploitation and the harsh realities of modern slavery.
Her 2012 novel, Águeda, la última mariposa de papel (Águeda, The Last Paper Butterfly), explores love, tenderness, and the complexities of human relationships, highlighting the challenges women face in contemporary society. Through her works, Ernestina Sodi combined literary skill with a commitment to raising awareness about pressing social issues, earning her recognition as both a storyteller and advocate.
A Traumatic Chapter: The 2002 Kidnapping That Changed Her Life
One of the most defining events of Ernestina Sodi’s life was her kidnapping in 2002, an incident that had a profound impact on her personally and professionally. On September 22, 2002, Ernestina and her sister Laura were abducted in Mexico City after leaving the San Rafael Theater, where Laura was performing in La Casa de Bernarda Alba. They were forcibly taken by armed criminals affiliated with the gang Los Tiras and held for ransom.
During her 34 days of captivity, Ernestina endured constant threats, physical and psychological abuse, and inhumane treatment, including sexual assault. Her sister Laura was released earlier to negotiate Ernestina’s release. The traumatic experience was widely covered by the media and later recounted in Ernestina’s book, where she suggested complications in the negotiation process and raised questions about her sister’s role, sparking public debate.
The kidnapping profoundly influenced Ernestina’s outlook on life and shaped the themes of resilience, survival, and social justice in her later works. She transformed her personal trauma into a platform for awareness and advocacy, demonstrating immense courage in speaking openly about her ordeal.
Family Ties: The Sodi Sisters’ Complex Relationship
Ernestina Sodi’s relationships with her family, especially her sisters, were a central aspect of her life. She shared a close bond with Thalía, one of Mexico’s most internationally recognized singers, who remained by her side during health challenges and difficult times.
Her relationship with half-sister Laura Zapata was more complicated due to the public controversies surrounding the 2002 kidnapping. Disagreements and differing perspectives created tension, but the sisters also shared moments of familial support, highlighting the complexity of family dynamics within a high-profile family. Ernestina also had relationships with her other sisters, Gabriela and Federica, who maintained more private lives but were part of the family network that supported her.
Love And Family: Ernestina Sodi’s Personal Life
Ernestina Sodi was a devoted mother and partner. She married twice, first to Fernando González Parra, a lawyer and journalist. The couple had two daughters, Camila, an actress and singer, and Marina, an anthropologist and visual artist. Her first marriage ended in divorce, and Ernestina openly discussed suffering physical and psychological abuse during this period, reflecting her commitment to honesty and advocacy for women.
Her second marriage was to Mauricio Camps, then Secretary of Public Education in Mexico City, in 2011. The union lasted approximately two years. Throughout her life, Ernestina remained deeply involved with her children and grandchildren, nurturing strong family bonds and maintaining a loving presence in their lives.
Health Battles And Final Days
In 2024, Ernestina Sodi faced serious health challenges. She suffered two heart attacks, which required hospitalization and placed her in intensive care. The family publicly requested blood donors to support her treatment, and Thalía traveled to Mexico to be with her sister during this difficult period.
Despite medical efforts and family support, Ernestina passed away on November 8, 2024. Her death prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from her family, friends, and fans, highlighting the profound impact she had on those who knew her personally and professionally.
Tributes And Legacy: How Ernestina Sodi Will Be Remembered
Ernestina Sodi’s legacy extends beyond her family name. She is remembered as a courageous survivor, a talented writer, and an advocate for social justice. Through her books and public statements, she shed light on issues such as human trafficking, violence against women, and the resilience of the human spirit.
Her influence is also reflected in her children, particularly Camila Sodi, who continues to shine in the entertainment industry. Ernestina’s life serves as a testament to the power of creativity, perseverance, and using personal experiences to make a positive impact on society.
Conclusion: Honoring Ernestina Sodi’s Strength And Spirit
Ernestina Sodi’s life was marked by challenges, achievements, and an unwavering commitment to truth and social awareness. From her early education and pageantry to her literary contributions, her survival of kidnapping, and her devotion to family, she embodied courage and resilience.
As we remember Ernestina Sodi, we celebrate a woman who was more than a sister to Thalía or the mother of Camila Sodi. She was a thinker, a writer, an advocate, and a beacon of strength whose life continues to inspire. Her story encourages us to value family, speak truth to power, and transform personal trials into lessons for the greater good.
FAQs About Ernestina Sodi
What Was Ernestina Sodi Known For?
Ernestina Sodi was known as a journalist, historian, and author who tackled social issues through her writing. She also gained public recognition as Thalía’s sister and Camila Sodi’s mother.
When Did Ernestina Sodi Pass Away?
She passed away on November 8, 2024, in Mexico City due to complications from two heart attacks.
What Are The Major Books Written By Ernestina Sodi?
Her notable works include Líbranos del mal, recounting her kidnapping experience, Los cerezos negros, addressing human trafficking, and Águeda, la última mariposa de papel, exploring love and relationships.
Who Are Ernestina Sodi’s Children?
She had two daughters: Camila Sodi, an actress and singer, and Marina Sodi, an anthropologist and visual artist.
What Happened During The 2002 Kidnapping?
Ernestina and her sister Laura were abducted in Mexico City by the criminal gang Los Tiras. Ernestina was held for 34 days, enduring threats, abuse, and trauma, which she later detailed in her book.
Was Ernestina Sodi Married?
Yes, she was married twice: first to Fernando González Parra, with whom she had her two daughters, and later to Mauricio Camps from 2011 to 2013.
How Is Ernestina Sodi Remembered Today?
She is remembered as a courageous survivor, talented writer, devoted mother, and a figure who used her experiences to advocate for social awareness and justice.
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