In a media world saturated with fast-paced romances and superficial connections, Channel 4 has taken an unexpected but deeply human approach to exploring intimacy.

Their brand-new docuseries, Virgin Island, is less about shock value and more about genuine emotional transformation.

Over six episodes, twelve adults aged 22 to 30 step away from everyday distractions to focus on vulnerability, emotional growth, and connection — all on a tranquil Mediterranean island.

A Safe Space to Learn About Intimacy

Virgin Island is led by sexologists Dr. Danielle Harel and Celeste Hirschman, co-founders of the Somatica Institute, who designed this one-of-a-kind experience.

The show doesn’t just throw its participants into unfamiliar territory — it offers therapeutic tools, including group coaching, guided exercises, and even sessions with certified surrogate partners.

Yes, you read that right: surrogates.

These trained professionals support the participants in developing intimacy and self-awareness in a respectful and structured way.

According to the show’s creators, surrogate therapy is a safe space for learning how to build meaningful physical and emotional connections, particularly for those who’ve felt stuck or shut out from intimacy their whole lives.

Challenging Unrealistic Portrayals of Sex in Media

Danielle and Celeste are outspoken about how sex is portrayed in modern media.

Celeste, who holds a Master’s in Human Sexuality Studies, described what we usually see on screen as rushed, unrealistic, and even damaging.

“It’s like three kisses, pants off, and done,” she said.

“That’s not what real intimacy looks like.”

They argue that Virgin Island is about changing that — showing real, paced, communicative experiences rather than the glossy, choreographed version TV usually offers.

“If we’re going to show sex,” Danielle added, “let’s show it in a way that’s authentic and nourishing.”

What the Surrogate Process Looks Like

Virgin Island introduces viewers to surrogate partners Kat Slade and Andre Lazarus, who work closely with some of the cast. Celeste explains that these are genuine relationships rooted in respect and therapeutic goals.

Like any connection, they include natural ups and downs — including performance challenges and moments of self-doubt — and that’s exactly the point.

“It prepares people for real relationships,” Celeste said.

“We want to model what authenticity looks like — how to communicate, how to take a break when something doesn’t feel right, and how to grow through the process.”

Every surrogate-client pairing is also guided by a therapist, especially if emotional bonds form.

This “triadic” setup ensures that boundaries are maintained and that emotions, if they arise, are safely processed.

Why More Young Adults Are Still Virgins — And Why That Matters

Recent research from University College London found that one in eight 26-year-olds is still a virgin — a sharp increase from past generations.

Danielle believes that society’s mixed messages around sex are a big part of the problem.

“There’s so much pressure to get it right,” she said.

“People are terrified of embarrassment or doing it wrong.”

From porn to rom-coms to influencers, Danielle explains, the messages people receive about sex are usually curated and unattainable.

That kind of pressure can be paralyzing — especially in a culture where hookup apps make relationships feel disposable.

“You see people ghosting or avoiding intimacy because they just don’t know how to navigate it,” she added.

Meet the People Behind the Stories

The cast of Virgin Island isn’t just participating for entertainment — each person brings a deeply personal reason for joining.

Here are just a few of their stories:

Emma, 23, felt isolated as the only virgin in her friend group and wanted to work through trauma that made intimacy difficult.
Ben, 30, applied after a friend saw the casting call — even though his first reaction was, “Not a chance.”
Dave, 24, used to feel invisible and saw the show as a drastic step to take control of his life again.
Jason, 25, found that the process not only helped with intimacy but also improved his social skills.
Louise, 22, joined after a friend sent her the application as a joke — but she saw it as a real opportunity for change.

Others shared their struggles with anxiety, trauma, vaginismus, self-confidence, or societal pressure.

For many of them, being part of the show wasn’t just about sex — it was about healing, connection, and self-acceptance.

A New Type of Reality Show — With Real Results

Virgin Island airs on Channel 4 at 9 p.m. on Monday, May 9, and it’s already creating buzz for breaking boundaries.

But unlike typical reality shows that thrive on drama and spectacle, this one is grounded in care, consent, and growth.

As Danielle put it, “Would you rather see more violence on TV or see sex portrayed in a way that helps people understand themselves and others better?”

Virgin Island isn’t about exploiting vulnerability — it’s about celebrating it.

In a world where real connection can feel rare, this show might just be the first step toward a healthier conversation around intimacy.