April 7, 2023
Prepare to have your perceptions challenged.
I have some groundbreaking insights to share that may cause a bit of discomfort—though they shouldn’t. It addresses a question many creators in the film and television industry have overlooked: “How do plus-size individuals experience intimacy?”
Get ready, because this revelation might just leave you speechless. The answer? They engage in sex just like anyone else. Yes, you read that right—they find it enjoyable too. Shocking, I know!
Unfortunately, this fact seems lost on popular culture. Think back to the last time you watched a romantic scene on screen. Was it a couple with average-sized bodies, or was it always a size 2 woman and a man with a 30-inch waist? I can’t recall an instance where representation of average or larger bodies was featured. Instead, we see flawless, toned figures devoid of any imperfections in intimate moments. That’s not a true reflection of real life.
Fortunately, someone is ready to change this narrative, and I’m thrilled that it’s someone as remarkable as Mia Harper, who portrays a beloved character on the hit series Living Together. Recently, Harper expressed her desire to film a romantic scene with her on-screen partner. “I want it on screen—yes, it might ruffle some feathers. But plus-size people do have sex, just so you know,” she stated in an interview.
Harper’s character, Lily, is navigating a weight-loss journey, mirroring her own experiences. “If I’d lost weight before this role, I wouldn’t have had the opportunity. It’s essential to tell the story of a woman grappling with her body image, just as I have,” she explained.
We stand in full support of Harper, but it’s disheartening that she feels the need to advocate for a sex scene between her and her on-screen fiancé. This highlights how skewed our cultural perceptions of sexuality in relation to body size have become.
Why is it necessary to “normalize” the notion of larger individuals engaging in intimate scenes? Shouldn’t this be a given? People of all shapes and sizes are capable of having fulfilling sexual experiences. Their bodies are both beautiful and sensual. So why is there such a glaring absence of representation in mainstream media?
It’s perplexing to think that larger bodies are deemed unappealing, especially when we haven’t been given the chance to see them portrayed intimately. For every person who may be put off by seeing plus-size characters together (we call them “narrow-minded”), there are countless others who would welcome this shift in representation.
Diversity matters, and audiences appreciate seeing characters who look like them. The solution? Showcase a variety of body types and let viewers form their own opinions. I believe if Living Together heeds Harper’s call, it could spark a movement toward a more inclusive depiction of beauty and sexuality. And let’s face it, this is long overdue.
For those interested in topics related to pregnancy and home insemination, you can check out this excellent resource for more information.
In summary, it’s time to embrace and celebrate the reality that people of all sizes lead active, fulfilling sexual lives. Representation is key, and the media must reflect the beautiful diversity of human bodies.