One of the most talked-about topics among Gavin & Stacey viewers is Smithy’s girlfriend. Actress Laura Aikman’s Sonia makes her debut in the 2019 holiday special. Many were interested in the woman who played the role, and her persona caused debate.
British actress Laura Aikman has been around for quite a while in the film and TV industries. Her stellar career in British entertainment began long before she became a member of Gavin & Stacey.
Laura Aikman – Bio & Career Details
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Laura Holly Aikman |
| Date of Birth | December 24, 1985 |
| Age | 39 years (as of 2024) |
| Place of Birth | Brent, London, England |
| Nationality | British |
| Occupation | Actress |
| Years Active | 1996–present |
| Spouse | Matt Kennard (m. 2019) |
| Notable Roles | Gavin & Stacey, Casualty, The Job Lot, Waterloo Road |
| Employer(s) | BBC, ITV |
Early Career and Television Roles of Laura Aikman
Laura Aikman was born on Christmas Eve 1985 into an artistic household. Both her mother, Jean Heard, and father, Stuart Aikman (Stuart St. Paul), were involved in the entertainment industry.
In 1996, Aikman made her acting debut with Anthony Hopkins in the low-key picture Surviving Picasso. Her 2009 role as May Phelps in Casualty catapulted her to stardom. She had her first big recurring role on British TV with this.
Sonia, played by Laura Aikman, in Gavin & Stacey
Aikman portrays Smithy’s girlfriend Sonia in the 2019 Gavin & Stacey Christmas Special. Since many were hoping for a reunion between him and Nessa, her visit caught fans off guard.
The people closest to Smithy, though, did not approve of Sonia’s character. She confronted Nessa and slammed him for his weight. Even though she didn’t have much screen time, Aikman’s performance left a lasting impression on viewers.
Parts Played by Laura Aikman in Film and Comedy
Aikman has also made appearances in a number of comedic films and television shows. Keith Lemon: The Film included her, and Teenage Kicks was her collaboration with Adrian Edmondson. Her comedic timing and versatility have made her a star.
The 2023 biopic Archie, which portrayed Cary Grant’s wife Dyan Cannon, had Aikman in the lead role. She was also a cast member in the hit Grace series and the ITV drama Joan.
Married to Matt Kennard and Personal Life
The Doctors star Matt Kennard was married to Laura Aikman in 2019. The two have been dating since they met on the set of Bluestone 42, a BBC series.
Where Laura Aikman Is Headed
Aikman has been a key character in British television for many years thanks to her varied and extensive career. Her devoted fan base will be watching her every move, whether it’s returning to Gavin & Stacey or taking on other ventures.
Other Notable TV Appearances
Aside from Gavin & Stacey, Aikman has had roles in several popular British TV shows:
- The Mysti Show (2004–2005) – Played the lead character, Mysti.
- Casualty (2009–2010) – Portrayed May Phelps.
- Waterloo Road (2015) – Played Lorna Hutchinson.
- The Job Lot (2014–2015) – Featured as Natalie.
- Lemon La Vida Loca (2012–2013) – Starred alongside Keith Lemon.
FAQs About Smithy’s Girlfriend & Laura Aikman
Who played Smithy’s girlfriend in Gavin & Stacey? Laura Aikman played Sonia, Smithy’s girlfriend, in the 2019 and 2024 Christmas Specials.
Was Smithy engaged to Sonia in Gavin & Stacey? Yes, Smithy was engaged to Sonia, but their relationship ended in the 2024 Christmas Special.
What other TV shows has Laura Aikman been in? She has appeared in Casualty, Waterloo Road, The Job Lot, and Keith Lemon: The Film.
Is Laura Aikman married? Yes, she has been married to actor Matt Kennard since 2019.
Will Sonia return in Gavin & Stacey? There are no confirmed plans for Sonia’s return, but fans are eager to see what happens next.