Channel 4’s Virgin Island has triggered intense debate with its provocative premise, and even more controversial execution.
The six-part series follows 12 adults aged 22 to 30 who are all virgins. Their goal? To lose their virginity, or at least achieve a meaningful level of sexual intimacy, while on camera, during a two-week sex therapy retreat on an idyllic Croatian island.
Are they really having sex on Virgin Island?
The short answer is: potentially, and in some cases, yes.
Among the show’s cast of intimacy experts, therapists and tantric coaches, two individuals stand out: Andre Lazarus and Kat Slade, the series’ designated sex surrogates.
These surrogates, unlike their hands-off counterparts, are not only allowed but qualified to engage in physical and sexual contact with participants, including intercourse, if it becomes a therapeutic step in the process.
Sex surrogacy is about using touch, including sexual touch, to help people heal from trauma, overcome anxiety and learn to experience intimacy. This therapy can help people navigate their first sexual experiences with guidance, understanding and care.
While most of the show’s experts draw the line at “very heavy petting”, the surrogates’ involvement crosses into deeper physical territory.
Who are the surrogates?
Andre Lazarus, a certified intimacy coach and ex-Marine Corps officer, brings more than a decade of experience to the series.
His path was shaped by his own trauma and a desire to help others rediscover healthy sexuality.
“Virginity, at any stage of life, isn’t a pathology, it’s just a part of someone’s lived experience,” he told the Daily Mail. “None of that makes them any less whole, attractive, or capable of love and pleasure. Virginity isn’t a problem to solve. It’s just one chapter in an evolving story.”
His co-surrogate, Kat Slade, is a somatic practitioner, choreographer and Reiki healer. Kat specialises in working with people who have limited sexual experience or past trauma.
“Surrogate partner therapy can provide a compassionate and individualised approach to help survivors heal and rediscover pleasure and connection,” she shared. “This therapy can help people navigate their first sexual experiences with guidance, understanding and care.”
Behind its cheeky title, Virgin Island addresses a serious cultural shift.
According to research from University College London, one in eight 26 year olds in England is still a virgin. This is a significant increase from previous generations. Reasons vary, from anxiety and trauma to body dysmorphia and social disconnection.
While the show features intimate and at times uncomfortable scenes, it makes a case for redefining how we view sexual firsts.
“In real life, good sex takes communication, curiosity, and practice,” Andre added. “Sex is a skill, a dance, like speaking a language. It’s not something we are just good at or need to rush.”
Read more: Channel 4 viewers ‘disgusted’ over ‘extremely creepy’ Virgin Island: ‘This is wrong’
Virgin Island is on tonight (May 19) at 9pm on Channel 4.
What do you think of Virgin Island on Channel 4? Let us know by leaving a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix. We want to know your thoughts!