Sex Education
"Growth is a group project."
A Netflix Original
Otis Milburn is a shy teen who knows a lot about therapy techniques, but very little about his own sex life. Raised by Jean, a frank sex therapist, he reluctantly pairs with Maeve, a sharp and independent classmate, to run an underground clinic in their high school bathroom. The clinic becomes a... Read more
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Streaming availability last verified: January 26, 2026
About Sex Education
Otis Milburn is a shy teen who knows a lot about therapy techniques, but very little about his own sex life. Raised by Jean, a frank sex therapist, he reluctantly pairs with Maeve, a sharp and independent classmate, to run an underground clinic in their high school bathroom. The clinic becomes a safe place where classmates bring messy questions about sex, identity, and relationships, while Otis and Maeve learn about their own limits, desires, and the consequences of giving advice to others. The show mixes awkward humor with emotional moments and keeps the focus on everyday problems that feel real to teenagers, parents, and teachers alike.
Created by Laurie Nunn, the series premiered on Netflix in 2019 and is produced by Eleven Film. It stars Asa Butterfield as Otis and Gillian Anderson as Jean, with Ncuti Gatwa, Emma Mackey, and Kedar Williams-Stirling in central roles. Multiple seasons followed the initial release, helping the show reach a wide international audience.
The series has earned critical recognition and several award nominations, including BAFTA nods and other television honors, with frequent praise aimed at the ensemble cast. While not every ceremony is listed here, reviewers and industry groups have repeatedly highlighted the performances and the show's voice in awards conversations.
Sex Education made a noticeable cultural splash, opening up conversations about comprehensive sex education, consent, and queer representation on mainstream streaming TV. Memorable character moments and a distinctive visual style helped it seep into social media discussions, fan art, and fashion commentary, and it played a part in raising the profile of its younger cast members.
Critics generally responded positively, and audience scores reflect that reception, with an average of 8.217/10 (7689 votes). The show balances comedy and drama while tackling themes like intimacy, identity, mental health, and family dynamics, mixing blunt, honest scenes with lighter, character-driven humor.
What Viewers Are Saying
Viewers have mixed feelings about "Sex Education," with some appreciating its fresh comedic take on high school drama and thoughtful moments. Audiences praise the show's soundtrack and its willingness to explore diverse topics. However, others criticize it for relying heavily on stereotypes and losing focus on a cohesive plot as the series progresses. Some viewers also express discomfort with certain character portrayals and themes.
Details
- Release Date
- January 11, 2019
- Rating
- TV-MA
- User Ratings
- 7,712 votes
- Type
- TV Series
- Seasons
- 4
- Episodes
- 32
- Network
- Netflix
- Status
- Ended
- Genres
- Comedy, Drama
- Country
- United Kingdom
- Studio
- Eleven
- External Links
- View on IMDB
Official Trailer
Cast
Asa Butterfield
Otis Milburn
Gillian Anderson
Jean Milburn
Ncuti Gatwa
Eric Effiong
Emma Mackey
Maeve Wiley
Kedar Williams-Stirling
Jackson Marchetti
Thaddea Graham
Sarah 'O' Owens
Mimi Keene
Ruby Matthews
Anthony Lexa
Abbi Montgomery
Connor Swindells
Adam Groff
Aimee Lou Wood
Aimee Gibbs
Created by: Laurie Nunn
Seasons (4 seasons, 32 episodes)
Season 1
8 episodes - 2019
Season 2
8 episodes - 2020
Season 3
8 episodes - 2021
Season 4
8 episodes - 2023