Sex (TV series)
| Company type | Television program |
|---|---|
| Industry | Television broadcasting |
| Founded | 1992 |
| Headquarters | Australia |
Area served | Australia |
| Products | Television program about sex and related subjects |
Sex, alternatively titled Sex with Sophie Lee, is an Australian television program broadcast on the Nine Network from 1992 to 1993. The first season was presented by Sophie Lee, while Pamela Stephenson took over hosting duties in the second season. The series explored themes surrounding sex and related subjects. Originally conceived by Tim Clucas as a one-off special, it expanded into a 10-episode run due to significant viewer interest. The inaugural season attracted an average audience of 1.6 million, capturing a 35% audience share.
Controversy
The program generated significant debate because of its explicit portrayal of sexuality, including graphic images of genitalia, staged sexual acts, and candid discussions on topics such as abortion and homosexuality, all aired during an early evening slot at 8:30pm. Public opinion was divided; some applauded its openness, while others criticized it as exploitative or unsettling. Prominent advertisers like General Motors Holden chose to distance themselves from the show to preserve their reputation for "wholesome" programming, and conservative organizations exerted pressure on sponsors to pull their advertisements.
Although the Australian Broadcasting Tribunal received more than 900 complaints, the series was ultimately found not to breach broadcasting regulations. In 1993, the show was shifted to a later time slot; however, ongoing controversy prompted managing director David Gyngell to announce its cancellation, with the final episode airing on 27 May. The program’s popularity led to the creation of a similar series on Network Ten, titled Sex/Life, hosted by Tottie Goldsmith and Alyssa-Jane Cook, which aired between 1994 and 1998.
Cast
Sophie Lee capitalized on her sex appeal developed during her tenure on The Bugs Bunny Show, delivering a strong premiere with a 32% share in television ratings for Sex. Nevertheless, she departed the series by the end of 1992 due to dissatisfaction with the show.
In 1993, comedian Pamela Stephenson succeeded Lee as host, bringing a more comedic tone to the program. Stephenson later earned a doctorate in psychology with a focus on human sexuality.
Before rising to prominence as the first female and openly LGBT president of the Australian Medical Association (AMA) and serving as a parliamentarian, reporter Kerryn Phelps appeared on the series. The March 1992 episode titled "Homosexuality" featured Lee attending a televised dinner alongside figures such as politician Fred Nile, AMA representatives, and musician Derek Williams, who represented the Gay and Lesbian Teachers and Students Association. Both Williams and Phelps subsequently appeared on the Today Show discussing homophobia in schools.