When you find yourself with a little privacy and leisure time, your imagination can be a wonderful thing. Sometimes, however, it doesn’t quite cut it. Enter: steamy fictional liaisons—with a plot, to boot! As streaming services reshape traditional TV networks and ease censorship guidelines, our favourite shows are getting sexier and sexier. Even better, creators are making a concerted effort to portray realistic and inclusive sexual experiences among characters of every shape, size, gender, and orientation. What could be hotter than that? So, fire up your laptop and make sure your Vibe is charged.
Here are five of the steamiest shows to turn on when you’re in the mood for a little inspiration:
- The L Word (2004–2009 and 2019–2023)
We’d be remiss not to kick off with this classic of hot queer television. The original Showtime series ran for six glorious seasons from 2004 to 2009, and was no doubt responsible for thousands of bisexual and gay awakenings across the globe. It features intertwined stories about the lives and loves of a group of lesbians and bisexuals in Los Angeles, and it’s jam-packed with sapphic sex scenes for every taste. The original series is pretty outdated when it comes to bi- and trans-inclusion. But it’s a piece of queer history, and worth a thorough examination through both a critical and clitoral lens. Happily, the reboot, Generation Q, remedies most of the failings of the original, with steamy, incredible sex scenes featuring people of all gender identities and abilities.
- Queer as Folk (2000–2005 and 2022–Now)
Listing Queer as Folk right beside The L Word feels just right, and not just for the symmetry. The original series ran from 2000 to 2005 and chronicles the lives (and sex lives) of three gay men navigating love and self-discovery in Manchester. And let’s be real—the sex scenes could easily be mistaken for gay porn. This isn’t one to watch on the plane, that’s for sure. There’s a content note regarding its predominantly white, cis cast and some dated attitudes about consent, but much like The L Word, it has recently been rebooted to reflect modern perspectives. However, some feel the 2022 series lacks the emotional depth of the original. But hey, you're probably not tuning in for the plot, right?
- Bridgerton (2020–Now)
Loosen your corsets, folks! Ever wondered what Pride and Prejudice would be like with a dash more sensuality? Based on historical romance novels, Bridgerton is set in London during the Regency era and follows eight aristocratic siblings on their quest for love in high society. The first season is undeniably the sexiest, focusing on the eldest daughter, Daphne, and her budding romance with the swoon-worthy Duke of Hastings. Expect some serious chemistry and playful encounters that will leave you wanting more.
If you enjoy a slow burn, season two is your jam, featuring one of the hottest character arcs: enemies turned lovers. It’s a bit less explicit than the first season but will still leave you breathless.
- Outlander (2014–Now)
Is your mum oddly obsessed with this show? Here’s why. Another historical drama that pushes the boundaries of on-screen intimacy, Outlander is as visually stunning as it is sexy. It follows a woman transported from the 1940s to 18th-century Scotland, where she navigates time travel, rebellion, and romance. Unlike typical steamy scenes, Outlander excels at storytelling through sensual, character-driven encounters. It’s a must-watch for anyone seeking a beautifully crafted, seductive period romance. No wonder your mum can’t get enough!
- Orange is the New Black (2013–2019)
After watching this electrifying Netflix original, you might find yourself googling “smallest crime to go to prison” or “how to get locked up without doing something terrible.” OITNB not only turns up the heat but also boldly tackles inclusive feminist storytelling. Set in a minimum-security women’s prison, the show embraces diversity across ages, races, and sexualities, offering an honest exploration of queer sexuality and the complex power dynamics in sexual relationships. The unforgettable shower sex in the very first episode and a scandalous encounter in the prison chapel stand out, but there are raunchy moments sprinkled throughout.
Finished already?
If you’ve reached the climax of our list, fret not. We won’t leave you high and dry. There are plenty more recommendations of TV shows and movies to come.
