October 26th 2023.
Generation Z audiences are more interested in platonic relationships than sex when it comes to film and TV. According to a recent study, almost half of those born between 1996 and 2012 think sex isn't necessary to drive plots. They prefer to see friendships and platonic relationships (51.5%) rather than romance (44.3%), which they think is overused.
This new preference has resulted in a call for more aromantic and asexual characters on screen, such as O in Netflix's Sex Education. Dr. Yalda T. Uhls, founder and director of CSS and co-author of the study, believes this is because adolescents are looking for relationships that reflect the full spectrum, rather than just sex and romance.
Recent shows such as Euphoria and The Idol caused a stir with their X-rated scenes. However, some actors have expressed discomfort when filming intimate moments. Aidan Turner, star of Poldark, admitted that some directors weren't always great at shooting sex scenes. Meanwhile, Sir Michael Caine, 90, was relieved he no longer needed to do them.
Asexuality is defined as someone who doesn't experience sexual attraction. They may or may not experience romantic attraction. Penn Badgley asked showrunner Sera Gamble to reduce the number of sex scenes in the latest series of You. Other stars, such as Phoebe Dynevor, have praised sex scenes for their empowering female viewpoint.
It's clear that Gen Z is looking for more diverse types of relationships being represented in the media they consume, and it looks like filmmakers are listening.
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