In recent years, period dramas have transformed from traditional storytelling to a landscape filled with explicit content and sexual exploration. This change is marked with more inclusive ensembles and courageous storytelling. Programs such as “Harlots,” “Bridgerton,” and “Gentleman Jack” are perfect examples of this transition. The evolution of these series has sparked discussions about the portrayal of sexuality on screen, particularly the balance between artistic expression and sensationalism.
Since its premiere in 2017, “Harlots” has been a critical darling. Co-created by Alison Newman and Moira Buffini, the series features a fearless depiction of life in Georgian Era England. The cast is notably diverse, and although the world of sex work can amplify many forms of discrimination, the show largely encourages themes of female empowerment. This year, though, it has enjoyed a revival of interest, even hitting the Netflix Top 10 chart at the start of this month.
Historically the way we’ve depicted sexuality on screen, particularly in period dramas, has deservedly been scrutinised. The Tudors, 2007 – This bodice-ripping costume drama starred Jonathan Rhys Meyers as the swaggering Henry VIII. It generated considerable controversy for its Americanized retelling of history and for heavily sexualizing historical figures. The critics lamented that though it was entertaining, it frequently abandoned its grounding in reality.
The tide of sexual frankness on period dramas has continued to build. You can find this on display, most prominently, in “Outlander,” which originally broke people’s hearts seven years ago. New York Magazine’s Vulture called it the series with “the best sex on television.” It broke ground with memorable scenes that defied convention, including an infamous — and very controversial — scene referred to as “castle cunnilingus.” These clear, intentional beats have made audiences question the necessity of sex in a different way than they ever have before.
Adaptations have tackled the complexity and intricacies of love and relationships with a grand sense of realism. Representation was an impetus for “Gentleman Jack,” which premiered in 2019, to tell a queer love story through the eyes of 19th-century landowner Anne Lister and her partner Ann Walker. This strategy has allowed for richer, queer narratives in a genre often limited to heterosexual story arcs.
While thousands are excited that their representation is finally visible or called out, many are concerned about what such a trend means. A 2016 report indicated that female nudity was almost three times more prevalent than male nudity in Hollywood films, raising concerns about gender disparity in representation. Kris Marshall, an actor known for his work in period dramas, asks whether this reflects a double standard: “Is it the objectification of men when we’ve had the objectification of women for so long?”
Andrew Davies, who adapted Jane Austen’s unfinished novel “Sanditon,” admits that the sexual content in recent adaptations has been more pronounced. He states, “And I suppose the sexing it up thing comes in fairly naturally.” Davies emphasizes that he writes stories he would want to watch himself, suggesting that audience preferences influence creative choices.
Not all industry insiders are on board with normalizing explicit content – particularly when it comes to children. Sexual assault in real life is a major, systemic issue and if you don’t see those issues reflected in storytelling that’s not a coincidence.” — Catriona Balfe, Actress – “Outlander” She states, “We have a problem in our society with sexual assault, and it’s reflected in our storytelling.”
The recent wave of period dramas includes shows like “Carême” and “Mary & George,” which have pushed boundaries even further. These series feature explicit scenes involving whipped cream and orgies, contributing to a growing perception that modern adaptations prioritize shock value over substance.
Despite the mixed reactions to this trend, many creators feel grateful for the opportunities to explore complex narratives about love, desire, and power dynamics. Andrew Scott, MPC, talks about his experiences in the industry and how they shaped his views. It was like, I just feel so grateful to be at a party!