Arriving alongside the latest season of Sex Education is a healthy dose of queer and trans representation. Seasons one to three of the show have provided us with witty and informative commentary on the teenage struggle of navigating sex and sexuality. However, it is fair to say that this season they have amped up their LGBTQIA representation in a refreshingly non-tokenistic way. Introducing a slew of queer characters, whose experiences are reflective of the realities of many people. The importance of these LGBTQ+ characters in mainstream television cannot be underestimated.
...it is fair to say that this season they have amped up their LGBTQIA representation in a refreshingly non-tokenistic way."
With three of the leading protagonists being transgender, the show’s representation of trans issues is truly historic. Cal, a non-binary, transmasculine character is in the process of transitioning; through them, we are given insight into the struggles which accompany this journey, such as gender dysphoria, physical side effects and inaccessible medical care. However, the character’s arc is in no way limited to their gender identity. Similarly, trans couple, Roman and Abi, appear first and foremost as the popular, free-spirited leaders of Cavendish Sixth Form College. Their gender identities remain somewhat out of the spotlight. With Roman appearing as a reminder of the gender euphoria that awaits Cal and others like them. Additionally, Abi’s character is represented as a warm and relatable confidante to Eric. Otis’s unlikely best friend, Eric is a recurring character across all four seasons.
Flamboyant, eccentric and full of sass, Eric continuously offers us an entertaining and emotional representation of young queer love and self-discovery. In this season we see the duo drift apart as Eric feels torn between his sexual identity and his faith, neither of which are relatable to a sweet but very straight, Otis. Eric’s religious journey touches upon a truly significant issue; the place of queer people in society. Beginning at Cavendish Sixth Form College, Eric, for the first time is exposed to a community of people who express themselves similarly and freely. This newfound sense of belonging and self-love impacts his ability to reconcile his religious beliefs with a community that is unaccepting. Once again, this representation is so significant in its complexity and nuance. Offering LGBTQ+ narratives that are relevant to all viewers, Sex Education season four has finally delivered an enjoyable representation of queerness that doesn’t leave you cringing.