When you find yourself with a little privacy and leisure time on your hands, the 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 flatten traditional TV networks and kick censorship guidelines to the curb, our favourite shows are getting sexier and sexier. Even better, creators are making more of an effort to portray realistic, inclusive sex between characters of every shape, size, sex, gender, and orientation. What could be hotter than that? Fire up your laptop and make sure your Vibe is charged.
Here are 5 of the steamiest shows that you can turn on to get turned on.
- The L Word (2004–2009 and 2019–2023)
We’d be remiss not to stick this GOAT of hot queer television in our number one slot. 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 The original series is pretty outdated when it comes to bi- and trans-inclusion.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)
Sure, listing Queer as Folk immediately beside the L Word evokes a pleasing symmetry. But that’s not all it evokes. The original ran from 2000 to 2005 and chronicles the lives (read: sex lives) of three gay men living in Manchester, who are growing up, falling in love, and discovering themselves. Oh, and did we mention the sex? Be warned, this is not one to watch on the plane. The sex scenes could easily be mistaken for straight-up gay porn.
Again, content note because of a white, cis cast and some attitudes about consent that wouldn’t fly nowadays. Like the L-Word, however, the show was recently rebooted to reflect modern attitudes, but we feel the 2022 series lacks the heart-rending storylines of the original. You’re not really in it for the plot, though, right?
- Bridgerton (2020–Now)
Loosen your corsets, folks. If you’ve ever wondered what Pride and Prejudice would be like with just a little more soft-core porn, wonder no more. Based on historical-romance novels, Bridgerton is set in London during the regency era and follows eight aristocratic siblings in their quest for love in high-society. The first season is undoubtedly the sexiest, and follows the eldest daughter Daphne in her budding romance with the swoon-worthy Duke of Hastings. Spoons are licked, castle-romps are had, and appetites are WET.
If you like a slow-burn, season two is for you, with one of the sexiest possible character arcs: haters turned lovers. It’s less explicit than Bridgerton season one, but will still have you hot under the collar.
- Outlander (2014–Now)
Is your mum weirdly obsessed with this show? Let us explain. Another historical drama that pushes the boundaries of on-screen sex, Outlander is as cinematically stunning as it is horny. It follows a woman transported from the 1940s to 18th century Scotland, where she navigates time-travel, rebellion, and love. All the usuals. Unlike typical steamy scenes, Outlander is a master class in storytelling through sensual, character-driven encounters. It’s a must-watch for those seeking a beautifully crafted, seductive period romance. No wonder your mum loves it.
- Orange is the New Black (2013–2019)
After viewing this horny little Netflix original, you’d be forgiven for googling stuff like “smallest crime go to prison” or “how to go to jail without doing something awful”. OITNB took a bold step, not just in razzing us up, but in 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 piping hot shower sex in the very first ep and a blasphemous encounter in the prison chapel stand out, but there are raunchy moments in almost every episode.
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.
