The 20 Sexiest TV Shows of All Time, Ranked

During television’s early years, the term “broad” in “broadcasting” generally referred to programs that appealed to a large number of viewers. This implied using mild language, minimal violence, and almost no explicit sexual content. Of course, characters like Jim Rockford or Laura Petrie could be found appealing, but their allure was more suitable for a PG rating.

The proliferation of television content from a handful of broadcast networks to countless cable channels and streaming platforms necessitated unique identification. Some platforms have made “adult” programming their primary identity; a list of the most seductive TV shows ever could predominantly feature series from HBO, Cinemax, or even more so, favorites from Starz, which has established its reputation around explicit content like nudity and violence (often separately, but not always).

Our selection includes a number of shows from Starz, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll discover your favorites such as “Outlander” or “Spartacus”. The reason for this is that the term “sexy” can be quite subjective, and this list showcases our personal picks of the 20 most sexually appealing shows ever produced, reflecting what we find attractive.

We discussed, debated, and reminisced, talking about our past TV crushes and considering the distinction between shows heavy on sex and those that are genuinely sensual (sometimes they share similarities, sometimes not). We went through multiple rounds of voting and used a scoring system to help us reduce our list to approximately 20 titles and arrange them in a way that, at least to some degree, mirrored agreement. A few shows – Netflix’s “One Day” and “Bridgerton” – almost made the final cut, and might have done so if we had chosen differently on the day of our decision.

As a passionate enthusiast, I’d like to share that this collection offers a wide array of content, catering to diverse tastes. While some pieces delve into more explicit themes, others maintain a more subtle approach, with only a few affectionate glances or perhaps no overt displays at all. It’s essential to remember that the concept of “sexy” is subjective and can mean different things to different people. To illustrate this point, here are twenty unique perspectives on what makes something sexy.

The Golden Girls (NBC, 1985-1992)

Though not typically associated with seductive shows, the character of Blanche Devereaux from the classic sitcom might warrant a second thought. Known for her vibrant sexuality and desirability that transcended age (be it 40 or 50), Blanche (portrayed brilliantly by Rue McClanahan) was more than just a symbol; she embodied the notion that female desire doesn’t wane with time. Her character was also a master of erotic storytelling, her accounts of past adventures and current desires captivating enough to ignite passion (albeit often unrequited in Dorothy’s case, played by Bea Arthur’s fabulous grump).

Blanche’s passionate soliloquies, delivered with a Southern drawl and filled with phrases like “perky bosoms”, “unbridled passion”, “uncontrollable ecstasy” and, well, “sweating and screaming and clawing like a trapped panther”, mirrored the pulsating rhythm of sex itself, fluctuating between ebbs, flows, and racing towards a panting climax.

Long before Sex and the City‘s Samantha Jones made it acceptable for women to freely express their sexual desires at any age, Blanche was already leaving indelible marks with lines such as, “Like I’m the only person who ever mixed a margarita in a sailor’s mouth!

Pride and Prejudice (BBC1, 1995)

From a devoted fan’s perspective, Jane Austen’s novel, Pride and Prejudice, masterfully blends romantic tension, Regency etiquette, and social class commentary. However, the 1995 miniseries transcended this classic narrative into an entirely new realm: a captivating drama for intelligent women. This adaptation, renowned in its own right, is often remembered for a scene that never transpired. The misunderstanding? There’s no moment where Mr. Darcy (Colin Firth), the brooding landowner, strips off his clothes and swims in a pond while still wearing his formal attire. Contrary to popular belief, Mr. Darcy doesn’t emerge from a lake glistening, his shirt see-through as he strides towards the camera, shaking water from his hair. This scene, etched deeply into the collective consciousness, is merely a product of the audience’s vivid imagination. A generation was enamored by Elizabeth Bennet (Jennifer Ehle), a neighbor of Mr. Darcy, exerting her influence over her social superior in subtle ways. So mesmerizing was Colin Firth as Mr. Darcy that viewers projected their fantasies onto this dynamic, creating a romanticized version with undertones reminiscent of a historical romance novel. What makes Firth so seductive in this portrayal is his discomfort at being reduced to an object of desire.

The L Word (Showtime, 2004-2009)

The 90s and the early 2000s were known for the occasional lesbian kiss episode on network TV, serving as a ratings stunt during sweeps periods. These episodes often depicted a subtle lip-lock between a heterosexual lead actress and a slightly queer guest star. In stark contrast, Showtime introduced “The L Word” around that time, which was the first television series focusing on lesbian and bisexual female characters’ lives. Compared to the modest kiss on “Friends,” it was almost explicit. Created by Ilene Chaiken, this daring, eccentric series challenged norms not just by depicting authentic relationships between queer women in LA, but also by including passionate and explicit sex scenes that resonated with many viewers. The show’s sexual content is so frequent, provocative, and intriguing that it has led to extensive internet rankings dedicated to individual scenes. For those with romantic inclinations, the deep bond shared by long-term couple Bette (Jennifer Beals) and Tina (Laurel Holloman) might stir emotions. However, for anyone with a heartbeat, the numerous casual sexual encounters of the iconic Shane (Katherine Moennig) could awaken something unexpected within you.

Melrose Place (Fox, 1992-1999)

The acting varied greatly, the story arcs were inconsistent, but it took the Darren Star/Aaron Spelling primetime soap, a predecessor to Beverly Hills, 90210, a season to discover its shameless rhythm. However, when it did, this tale of the seductive, emotional, strikingly attractive residents of a Los Angeles apartment complex became some incredibly steamy television broadcasting. Some notable aspects included: two fiery redheaded vixens (Laura Leighton’s Sydney and Marcia Cross’ famous character Kimberly) competing for the captivating bachelor Dr. Michael Mancini (Thomas Calabro); one of the most handsome square jaws, and male bodies, ever displayed on the small screen (thanks to Grant Show/Jake); and Heather Locklear strutting around in all her bleach-blond, miniskirt-wearing splendor as the apartment complex’s boss lady Amanda Woodward. The relationships occurred in a multitude of ways and settings, with notable moments including Amanda and Jake using her office desk passionately and Michael employing unconventional methods to get Sydney’s signature on divorce papers. Despite the formula being rigid — passionate kisses, occasionally involving ripped clothing, accompanied by cheesily dramatic electric guitar riffs and transitions to commercial or credits — each passionate encounter still felt fresh and daring.

Scandal (ABC, 2012-2018)

The deepest desire is what drives the most captivating romances, and no place is this more evident than in Shonda Rhimes’ political drama about the passionate affair between the U.S. President and his crisis manager. Before Simon yearned for Daphne (in “Bridgerton”) or Kate became Anthony’s desire (again in “Bridgerton”), there was Fitz who lived for Olivia. He expressed his feelings in the White House Rose Garden during season two (“I wait for you, I watch for you” is a famous speech), igniting five seasons of intense, sexually charged drama. Politics served merely as a backdrop for Fitz and Olivia’s tumultuous on-and-off relationship, which challenged loyalties, breached boundaries, and sparked numerous passionate soliloquies. However, the truth is: What kept viewers invested in this toxic couple was the electric chemistry between Tony Goldwyn and Kerry Washington. The intensity of their line deliveries and the palpable longing they conveyed – their eye contact became a language of its own – heightened the tension of this intriguingly immoral relationship. Rarely has forbidden love been so compelling.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer (The WB and UPN, 1997-2003)

Women in their 30s and 40s today can recall vividly the pivotal instant of their sexual awareness, often linked to the unmistakable sound of unzipping in the sixth season, ninth episode (“Smashed”) of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. The titular character, Buffy, portrayed by Sarah Michelle Gellar, engages in a fierce battle with Spike, played by James Marsters, during which their intense desire becomes apparent amidst the destruction. This scene marks a turning point for Buffy, who had previously experienced unfulfilling relationships, including an unfortunate one where she accidentally turned her first love evil upon giving him her virginity. Buffy the Vampire Slayer, created by Joss Whedon, is renowned for its exploration of sexual themes and the blurred boundary between violence and sensuality. The series also showcases tender moments, such as the groundbreaking queer relationship between characters Willow (Alyson Hannigan) and Tara (Amber Benson). Notably, in the musical episode, Whedon dedicates a whole song to their romantic connection.

Industry (HBO, 2020-)

This drama, primarily set in the chilly, impersonal atmosphere of a London investment bank, lacks any hint of romance. Instead, it’s filled with icy cynicism, where characters are more than willing to betray each other for an extra penny. However, it’s not devoid of allure. On the contrary, these ambitious twenty-somethings, who seem to have little else in their lives apart from work, aren’t shy about bringing their sexual desires to the workplace. For instance, Gus (David Jonsson) proposes wearing a colleague’s semen under his shirt and tie, while Robert (Harry Lawtey) receives a covert hand job from a flirtatious client (Sarah Parish). Their risk-taking nature doesn’t stop at the office, as they explore various sexual experiences – Yasmin (Marisa Abela), for one, has taken on a dominant role with Robert and engages in golden showers with her boyfriend/client (Kit Harington). The fact that this behavior occurs within a corporate culture plagued by bullying and harassment adds a darker dimension, but also makes it more intelligent and tantalizing. This series seems to grasp the intricate interplay of sex, power, and money, creating an addictive blend.

Normal People (Hulu, 2020)

In the world of screen stories, it’s unexpected that a series like Normal People, which typically revolves around melancholic Irish adolescents, would also captivate viewers with its intensely sensual scenes. Adapted from Sally Rooney’s 2018 novel about the love and heartache experienced by two maturing individuals, this 12-episode drama catapulted Daisy Edgar-Jones and Paul Mescal into stardom, and for good reason: Their on-screen chemistry is undeniably captivating. Maintaining a romance over the span of a film can be challenging; Normal People manages to do so across six hours, portraying the intricate adolescent connection between upper-class outcast Marianne (Edgar-Jones) and working-class, popular Connell (Mescal), as they evolve from teenagers in a clandestine relationship to adults grappling with love’s complexities. The series is filmed with exceptional cinematic artistry, particularly its strikingly authentic sex scenes, which aim to portray the discomforts of initial intimacy without sugarcoating it. In these intimate moments, Edgar-Jones and Mescal’s magical synergy transcends any potential embarrassment, transforming awkwardness into raw emotion.

Interview With the Vampire (AMC, 2022-)

Have you ever experienced a sexual encounter so intense that it felt like you were floating in mid-air? That’s what happened to Louis (Jacob Anderson) and Lestat (Sam Reid) during their tryst, as described in the premiere. Initially, their encounter began as a passionate threesome, but soon turned strange and supernatural when Lestat bit into Louis, causing him to feel such intense pleasure that the laws of gravity seemed to disappear. This is just the beginning of the tumultuous relationship between these two dramatic characters, which is marked by blood, fire, and an unbreakable bond. These creatures don’t do anything in moderation, and their story reflects this. The connection between Louis and Lestat becomes so powerful that it spans centuries and continents, leaving a trail of destruction behind them. Despite the numerous obstacles thrown in their path by fate, including other lovers, villains, and eternal children, neither can seem to resist each other. While this cable show may not be the most graphic on our list, it certainly packs a punch when it comes to raw emotion. From the lyrical dialogue to the opulent visuals to the intense chemistry between the leads, Rolin Jones’ adaptation of Anne Rice’s work is saturated with sensuality and desire.

Sense8 (Netflix, 2015-2018)

The Wachowskis and J. Michael Straczynski’s intercontinental sci-fi explores the profound potential for human connection. To visually represent this, the series creatively employed numerous sensual, steamy love scenes among its eight stunningly attractive characters. Although their bond was primarily telepathic, enabling them to exchange thoughts, feelings, or bodily sensations across vast distances, this mental intimacy frequently translated into physical intimacy on screen, with characters entwined in piles of sweaty bodies and intertwined limbs. Regardless of one’s sexual orientation, the show catered to various desires. The romantic tension was palpable among several couples within the group, such as Chicago police officer Will (Brian J. Smith) and Icelandic DJ Riley (Tuppence Middleton), or German safecracker Wolfgang (Max Riemelt) and Indian pharmacist Kala (Tina Desai). The relationships extended beyond the circle, with San Francisco hacker Nomi (Jamie Clayton) and her girlfriend (Freema Agyeman), as well as Spanish actor Lito (Miguel Angel Silvestre), his boyfriend (Alfonso Herrera), and his love interest (Erendira Ibarra). However, the most provocative scenes were the group orgies – tastefully lit and leisurely paced, filled with an abundance of writhing bodies in ecstasy that made it challenging to discern where one spirit ended and another began.

Moonlighting (ABC, 1985-1989)

The camera is capable of revealing intricate details such as insincerity, intelligence, or Timothée Chalamet’s mustache, but it can also be deceived. It has been reported that Bruce Willis and Cybill Shepherd had a difficult time working together on the show “Moonlighting,” but what the camera shows is an indescribable passion and a combustible tension that blurs the boundary between love and hate. You can sense that Shepherd’s character, Maddie, the prickly former model turned private eye, and Willis’ character, David, the unscrupulous detective, have some sort of unspoken desire for each other — and you fill in the blanks. Watch the iconic “Atomic Shakespeare” episode, which loosely adapts “The Taming of the Shrew,” to see how arguing can be a prelude to romance when handled skillfully. The audience yearned for these two characters to get closer. The audience craved for these two characters to get closer. However, when they did get close? According to common belief, the audience felt the heat had dissipated and stopped tuning in. But that’s not entirely accurate, and the reasons behind “Moonlighting” losing popularity after the removal of the will-they/won’t-they tension have little to do with what was portrayed on screen.

True Blood (HBO, 2008-2014)

Amongst the timeless monsters in literature, none possess a more lasting allure than the vampire, as seen in entries 12 and 15. Few series exploring these bloodthirsty creatures have exploited this charm quite like Alan Ball’s sensational, sleazy soap opera. This show was primarily focused on showcasing steamy encounters between captivating individuals, ranging from passionate vampire-on-vampire biting to tantalizing love scenes. These characters were so enticed by desire that they would seemingly make love even rising from the dead – as Bill (Stephen Moyer) did with Sookie (Anna Paquin) in season one. It’s hard not to understand their impulses! The sultry Louisiana climate had a knack for stripping clothing off an intriguingly scandalous cast, including the horny Jason (Ryan Kwanten), the uninhibited Jessica (Deborah Ann Woll) in her perpetual virginity, and of course, the powerful and charismatic sheriff Eric (Alexander Skarsgard). The trysts were graphic and explicit, emphasizing attractions across various supernatural and sexual orientations.

While the LGBTQ+ rights allegory the series initially proposed never fully materialized as intended, and yes, the storylines over seven seasons sometimes veered from engaging to bizarre to confusingly nonsensical – but one cannot deny that it lived up to its opening lyrics: “I wanna do bad things with you.

The White Lotus (HBO, 2021-)

Just as the old saying suggests, events that occur during vacations often stay within those vacation boundaries. This seems to be the charm of a fictional luxury resort chain, which manages to bring out the most passionate and complicated sides of its guests, locals, and staff. The setting offers countless chances for sunbathing in revealing attire, characters gazing at each other with desires unspoken or unmet, flirting for fun or profit, and acting on yearnings they might not have acknowledged before.

Creator Mike White is known for his insatiable curiosity about human desire, a knack for pushing boundaries, and in HBO, a network that encourages him to follow his impulses wherever they may lead. In the first season, Armond (Murray Bartlett) indulged in an intimate act with a staff member (Lukas Gage). The second season saw Harper (Aubrey Plaza) and Ethan (Will Sharpe) becoming entangled in their own jealousy-driven passion. Even the bond between the Ratliff brothers (Patrick Schwarzenegger and Sam Nivola) in the third season was not immune to this drama’s many romantic entanglements and flirtations.

Throughout each installment of this anthology, sex plays a prominent role, showcasing it in its various forms – sweet, salacious, or shocking.

Looking (HBO, 2014-2016)

This heartwarming, emotional TV show centered around gay men in San Francisco left viewers torn between supporters of Richie and Kevin. The charismatic Richie, portrayed by Raul Castillo with depths that could easily be lost at sea, was the ideal partner. On the other hand, Kevin, a British video game expert played by Russell Tovey with a mischievous sparkle in his eye, was the tantalizing trouble – officially attached but emotionally unattainable. The intense chemistry between Jonathan Groff’s Patrick and both men only served to intensify his perpetual indecision. This series explored sex scenes that were often playful, passionate, chaotic or uneasy, yet always vital to the storyline. The most sensuous scene spanning two seasons and a film appeared in the second season premiere – penned and directed by Andrew Haigh – where Patrick spent a weekend at the Russian River with his close friends, Agustin (Frankie J. Alvarez), Dom (Murray Bartlett) and Doris (Lauren Weedman). Accompanied by Sister Sledge’s “Lost in Music,” the episode reached its climax with a party in the woods, a utopia for the queer community under the soft glow of the moon and shimmering disco ball. As Patrick experienced a drug high amidst the hypnotic music, a wave of collective euphoria swept through, also paving the way for Agustin’s redemption via endearing character Eddie (Daniel Franzese).

The Americans (FX, 2013-2018)

The number of people who found it surprising that Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys, stars of “The Americans,” were a real-life couple after watching the show’s beginning is none. Their electric on-screen chemistry was evident from the very first episode of this 1980s espionage drama set in the United States, where they portrayed KGB agents in an arranged marriage who carried out spy work at the highest levels. In the series, sex is often used as a tool, much like miniature cameras, hidden microphones, and yes, wigs. It’s something they use both for their mission and for personal pleasure, with each other and numerous unsuspecting targets over six years.

“The Americans” is exceptionally intelligent in depicting how people employ sex, whether it’s transactional, symbolic of power, or, in rare cases, a sign of love. As a result, the show’s sexual scenes are raw and explicit, sometimes cold and other times intensely passionate — and due to the added dimension of Russell and Rhys’ real-life relationship, they can feel intimate at times and completely voyeuristic at others.

Insecure (HBO, 2016-2021)

When Insecure debuted, it sparked conversations for its genuine portrayal of friendships among Black women: Issa (Issa Rae), Molly (Yvonne Orji), Kelli (Natasha Rothwell) and Tiffany (Amanda Seales) navigated the complexities of life as young adults in L.A., stumbling through their messes with a charming clumsiness. Yet, Issa’s creation wasn’t just about friendship; it also offered an appealing visual feast, filled with tantalizing hookups and steamy relationships. Each season introduced a variety of attractive regulars – from the charismatic Lawrence (played by Jay Ellis) to the irresistible Nathan (Kendrick Sampson), who exuded effortless charm. Adding to the visual delight were recurring characters like Y’lan Noel’s Daniel and Alexander Hodge’s Andrew, fondly referred to as Asian Bae. Their handsome faces and well-sculpted bodies were captured with an intimate sensuality by EP/director Melina Matsoukas and cinematographer Ava Berkofsky. A subtle erotic undertone permeated the entire series, whether it was Molly and Andrew sharing secret glances during their initial date or Issa and Daniel surrendering to their passions during a recording session. Insecure was never short of humor, but it also gave due importance to sexual desires and satisfaction, particularly those of Black women.

Hannibal (NBC, 2013-2015)

In this series, known as “Hannibal,” the characters do not engage in sexual acts as such, but the deep connection between Hugh Dancy’s character Will Graham and Mads Mikkelsen’s character Hannibal Lecter, two exceptionally intelligent men, has often been interpreted as a complex and suggestive romantic dynamic. This interpretation, known as “Hannigram,” was not uncommon among fans. Unlike other shows that might focus on exposed skin or physical attraction, “Hannibal” is captivating in a more literal sense: it’s a visually stunning exploration of macabre and exquisite murder scenes and beautifully crafted meals that could make you want to eat, despite the questionable origin of the food. It’s not our fault if you find decaying corpses adorned with plump mushrooms, sumptuously cooked (but mysteriously sourced) sweetbreads, and Richard Armitage’s back tattoo depicting a horned demon alluring. The show’s director, Bryan Fuller, masterfully adapted Thomas Harris’ novels to create this unique blend of sensuality and horror.

Mad Men (AMC, 2007-2015)

In a surprising way, how can a series like Mad Men be considered sexy despite its lackluster onscreen sexual encounters? The answer lies in the show’s ability to captivate audiences with its intricate portrayal of desire and longing. While fans were subjected to 92 episodes of unfulfilled relationships and impotence, the sexual tension simmering beneath the surface was palpable.

The costuming by Janie Bryant played a significant role in this, making each character look their absolute best. This is evident in the numerous Mad Men Yourself social media avatars that were popular at one time. Additionally, Matthew Weiner skillfully assembled an exceptional cast and directed them through cycles of obsession, repression, and simmering appetites that often teetered on the brink of sexuality, even when they didn’t explicitly engage in it.

The show’s focus on salesmanship serves as a reminder that what sells best is sex appeal. Characters like Jon Hamm’s Don Draper and his tumultuous love life, Jessica Paré’s seductive rendition of “Zou Bisou Bisou,” and Christina Hendricks’ Joan using her sexuality as a tool of power all contributed to the series’ seductive allure. The audience was constantly left anticipating the next romantic encounter or consummation, hoping it would be the one that finally satisfied their desires. In essence, Mad Men masterfully played with our expectations and made us believe that each subsequent tryst would be the fulfillment we were searching for.

Now Apocalypse (Starz, 2019)

As a gaming enthusiast, I’ve always been intrigued by the bold and sensual explorations of human connections that Gregg Araki has masterfully portrayed since his groundbreaking work “The Living End” in 1992. For a brief, passionate period on Starz, he brought an exhilarating, boundary-pushing orgy of love and desire to the small screen. Imagine a casting call for actors who are not just good looking, but fearless enough to bare it all in the vibrant, neon-lit landscape of Los Angeles, teetering on the edge of destruction.

From the very first episode, when Avan Jogia’s character Ulysses finds himself entwined with Tyler Posey’s Gabriel in a secluded alley, this series, brimming with unabashed sexual freedom and playful audacity, continually reimagines romantic pairings and threesomes in ways that suggest the creator-director knew this was a one-time project.

The connections span beyond humans to extraterrestrials, with James Duval, a familiar face in Araki’s work, portraying a homeless Los Angelino who is violated and impregnated by a reptilian alien. Yet, nothing is more captivating than the soft whimper that emanates from Desmond Chiam’s character Jethro, a muscular actor, when he stumbles upon Carly’s (Kelli Berglund) sex toy collection and agrees to be spanked by her.

Character names like Ford Halstead and Severine Bordeaux seem plucked straight from the pages of “Dynasty” – another series known for its shifting sexual dynamics – but this is a wild, pop-art creation that now seems like a fading dream. As Carly puts it, “It’s so much like a fairy tale and vintage gay porn.”

Vida (Starz, 2018-2020)

Following the conclusion of the third season of “The White Lotus”, it might seem audacious to label a series centered around two sisters as one of the most sensual ever created. However, Tanya Saracho’s “Vida” is not that type of sensuality. Instead, it encompasses every other form of allure, with Saracho and her team of writers and directors exhibiting an infectious excitement to delve deeply into this graphic, bilingual, and specific narrative about grief, sisterhood, identity, gentrification, and East Los Angeles. The captivating lead performances by Melissa Barrera and Michel Prada are further amplified by a cast of steamy scene partners including Carlos Miranda, Maria Elena Laas, Roberta Colindrez, Adrian Gonzales, and Raúl Castillo. “Vida” utilizes its expansive sexual lexicon – we found ourselves constantly amazed by the novel positions and combinations we hadn’t seen before in mainstream productions – to examine character interactions and spark conversations as provocative as they are arousing. Seldom has the food, language, music, and sensuality of a single community been brought together in such a vibrant, fulfilling, and sexually charged manner.

2025-04-09 16:56