The Strangely Sexless Side of Fantasy TV Shows

The Peculiar Absence of Sex in Fantasy TV

The fantasy genre has experienced a surge in popularity on television in recent years, yet it is notably devoid of sexual content and exploration of sexuality. Unlike many other genres, fantasy TV adaptations have faced challenges in incorporating explicit sexual themes, despite the growing adult audience. The rise of fantasy television was truly propelled to new heights by the monumental success of Game of Thrones, which not only dominated television but also reshaped perceptions of the fantasy genre. This groundbreaking success paved the way for an influx of fantasy intellectual properties being acquired by various networks and streaming platforms.

Jon and Dany sleeping together in Game of Thrones season 7

The adaptation of fantasy novels into TV series has yielded a diverse range of outcomes. Some series have excelled in delivering captivating narratives, intricate world-building, and vibrant characters. However, there have also been instances of lackluster adaptations that struggled to distinguish themselves, often overshadowed by derivative storytelling and excessive exposition. Despite the varying quality of these adaptations, one consistent aspect remains: the absence of a certain allure, particularly the lack of sexual themes within the fantasy genre.

Morfydd Clark as Galadriel in The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power

The Exceptional Cases of Sexual Content in Fantasy TV

It may be tempting to cite Game of Thrones and The Witcher as examples of fantasy TV shows that prominently featured sexual content. However, these series stand as exceptions rather than the norm within the genre. Following the conclusion of Game of Thrones and the premiere of The Witcher, subsequent fantasy TV adaptations have notably reduced the portrayal of sex, even in the context of romantic relationships. While these stories are rich in fantasy world-building, magic, and character development, they largely overlook the exploration of carnal desires and intimate relationships.

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Notably, the depiction of sex in Game of Thrones often revolved around non-consensual acts, including instances of rape and sexual assault that prompted significant backlash from viewers. This portrayal frequently lacked genuine romance and instead utilized sexual violence as a crude mechanism for shock value and character development, rather than an authentic expression of deep connections and emotions.

The Underlying Factors and Impact on Fantasy TV

The absence of sexual content in fantasy TV shows is partly attributed to their source material, with many being adapted from Young Adult (YA) novels, particularly those intended for streaming services. YA fantasy novels, while engaging, often lack explicit sexual content, featuring themes of unrequited love and slow-burn romance rather than overt sexuality. This absence in the source material presents a challenge for writers and creators when adapting these stories for television, leading to a tendency to omit sexual themes altogether.

Furthermore, the acquisition of fantasy intellectual properties by streaming platforms, notably Netflix, has also shaped the storytelling of fantasy TV series. The uncertainty of series continuity, with many shows facing potential cancellation after a few seasons, limits the opportunity for extensive character development and complex relationships. The focus on establishing intricate world-building and lore often takes precedence, leaving little room for the exploration of multifaceted sexual relationships between characters.

The cautious approach to sexual content in fantasy TV, aimed at appealing to a broad audience and avoiding alienating more conservative viewers, has inadvertently contributed to a sense of generic and sanitized storytelling within the genre. While the exclusion of sexual themes may not define the success of a TV show, it does limit the genre's ability to fully explore the complexities of character relationships, potentially hindering the evolution and distinctiveness of fantasy television adaptations.