Kaylah Walton
Hollywood actress Shailene Woodley is renowned for her open-mindedness and willingness to tackle societal issues. Recognized for her performances in Big Little Lies and The Fault in Our Stars, she has become known not only for her acting skills but also for being a dedicated advocate for environmental issues and authentic living.
Shailene frequently shares her views on sustainable living and aims to challenge archaic views regarding relationships and intimacy. Recently, she shared her perspective on the representation of sex in contemporary American media, voicing her opinions candidly.
During her appearance on the She MD podcast, Shailene voiced her concerns about the portrayal of sex in the U.S., particularly in pornographic content. She vividly compared mainstream sexual depictions to the idea of “bacon hanging in front of a dog,” arguing that most portrayals lack depth and significance. She remarked, “The depiction of sex in this country feels so contrived. It’s all about performance, not genuine intimacy or connection.”
Identifying herself as a “very sexual person,” Shailene pointed out that many viewers might not recognize the richness they are missing. She commented, “If people truly understood what was possible with sex, they would look at porn and think, ‘Oh god, this is like junk food’.” She likened this experience to choosing “McDonald’s” over something far more fulfilling. To her, pleasure holds a deeper meaning when it stems from authentic connection.
Shailene discusses intimacy and the limitations of porn
Reflecting on her personal experiences, Shailene expressed gratitude for having had positive encounters in her earlier years, which helped her grasp these truths. She noted, “I was fortunate to have a partner who loved to dance while discovering my body.” In her eyes, sex resembles a dance: “It’s an exchange of energy. At times it’s a swift tango, at others a mellow groove.”
Shailene is passionate about advocating for improved sex education, wishing she could play a role in transforming it. “I wish I could lead sex ed… and ask, ‘How can we change this?’ ” She seeks an education in sexuality that emphasizes genuine connection, pleasure, and vulnerability, steering away from the superficial portrayals prevalent in today’s media.
