In the opening episodes of the provocative new Disney+ miniseries Dying for Sex, we meet Molly (Michelle Williams), a woman with terminal breast cancer who leaves her husband not because he doesn’t love her, but because he has “effectively become her nurse” and lost all sexual interest.
Inspired by the real-life story of Molly Kochan, who candidly recounted her journey on a Wondery podcast alongside her close friend Nikki Boyer, the series explores the intimate and deeply personal experiences she pursued following her cancer diagnosis.
As Molly embarks on her journey of sexual exploration, the series makes a striking observation that has resonated deeply with viewers: while Molly has had sex throughout her adult life, she’s has rarely experienced pleasure on her own terms – and she’s not alone. Millions of women will relate to this lack of sexual fulfilment.
The Reality of the “Orgasm Gap”
This narrative touches on what researchers have long documented as “the orgasm gap” – the significant disparity between men and women’s experiences of sexual satisfaction. A recent study published in the journal Sexual Medicine reveals a significant disparity in sexual satisfaction across genders. The research found that men consistently report higher orgasm rates during sexual encounters – ranging from 70 to 85 percent – regardless of age or sexual orientation. Meanwhile women reported experiencing orgasms during only 46 to 58 percent of sexual encounters. Clearly, there’s a persistent “pleasure gap”.
Creating Sex Scenes That Center Female Experience
The show’s creator, Liz Meriwether, explains the deliberate approach: “We wanted to show sex scenes that don’t feel choreographed for someone else’s enjoyment. Molly’s inner monologue dominates these moments – what she’s thinking, feeling, wanting. That’s intentionally different from how sex is typically portrayed.”
This perspective shift has sparked considerable online discussion, with viewers sharing their own experiences of the pleasure gap. “Watching Molly discover what actually feels good after decades of marriage made me realise how many women go through life having sex for everyone but themselves,” said one fan.
The Purpose of Pleasure
What distinguishes the series from other sexually explicit content is its feminist framing. As Molly explores kink communities, BDSM, and unconventional partners (including a memorable scene with neighbour Rob Delaney involving consensual genital punishment), the camera remains fixed on her experience.
Perhaps most radical is the show’s suggestion that sexual pleasure is not merely recreational but fundamental to human dignity – something worth pursuing even, or especially, when facing mortality. Molly’s journey parallels real-world movements advocating for pleasure as a health issue, with organisations like The Pleasure Project pointing out that sexual satisfaction is essential to wellbeing.
Impact Beyond Entertainment
The conversations sparked by “Dying for Sex” extend beyond entertainment. The show has sparkled discussions about sexual satisfaction following cancer treatments, menopause, and other health challenges.
By intertwining stories of illness, friendship, and sexual awakening, “Dying for Sex” has accomplished something rare – it’s made female pleasure not just visible but vital to the conversation about what makes a life well-lived.
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