Sex Educationis a popular Netflix series that revolves around the lives of a group of British high school students as they navigate the complexities of adolescence, relationships, and sexuality. Besides making viewers of all ages connect to the characters' experiences, struggles, and moments of self-discovery, the show is beloved for featuring well-written characters, each with their unique quirks and challenges.
Even though the final season has concluded,Sex Educationremains one of the best teen dramas, offering a realistic portrayal of the challenges faced by both teenagers and their parents.Sex Educationowes much of its success to its wonderful characters, who have carved out a special place in the hearts of fans.
Sex Education
A teenage boy with a sex therapist mother teams up with a high school classmate to set up an underground sex therapy clinic at school.
Watch on Netflix
12Ola Nyman
Played by Patricia Allison
Ola Nyman, portrayed by actressPatricia Allison, is a prominent character who is a smart, confident, and open-minded student at Moordale Secondary School.Ola stands out for her progressive views and her ability to navigate the complexities of adolescence with grace and maturity.In the first season, Ola is introduced as Jakob’s (Mikael Persbrandt) daughter. At one point, Ola’s mother fell seriously ill, and Ola frequently assisted her father in caring for her when he couldn’t manage it alone.
Ola is first introduced as a potential love interest for Otis (Asa Butterfield), yet then, she progresses to have her own storyline that explores the themes of love, self-discovery, and sexual orientation, adding depth to her character and the overall narrative. Moreover, Olla’s presence on the show contributes to its commitment to addressing diverse and relevant topics related to relationships, identity, and the challenges of growing up.
11Jackson Marchetti
Played by Kedar Williams-Stirling
Portrayed by actorKedar Williams-Stirling, Jackson Marchetti is introduced as a high-achieving student and the head boy at Moordale Secondary School. In the first season, Jackson is introduced as Maeve’s (Emma Mackey) secret boyfriend, and there is a possibility that he could be the father of her aborted child. He is known for his athleticism and his dedication to swimming, which places immense pressure on him due to his mother’s high expectations and strict training regimen.Jackson’s character arc throughoutSex Educationfocuses on his attempts to find a subject he truly enjoys.
Despite his outward success, Jackson grapples with personal insecurities and the weight of his responsibilities throughout the show.His character is complex, as he strives to balance the demands of his swimming career with his desire for a more typical teenage life. The issues with identity, expectations, and the unique struggles encountered by high-achieving students Jackson has to face, make him such a relatable and multifaceted figure.
10Lily Iglehart
Played by Tanya Reynolds
Lily Iglehart, portrayed byTanya Reynolds, is introduced as a quirky and uninhibited student at Moordale Secondary School. Lily is first seen as one of the members of the Swing Band, who actively tries to have intercourse with Eric to find her inspiration and insights for her comic book.Lily’s unique fashion sense, candid discussions about sexuality, and open-mindedness make her stand out in the show’s ensemble cast.
Moreover, Lily’s character is known for her endearing eccentricities and her dynamic friendship with Ola. Together, they navigate the ups and downs of adolescence and their experiences in the world of relationships and sexuality. Lily provides a refreshing perspective on self-acceptance, body positivity, and the importance of embracing one’s individuality. Her presence inSex Educationhighlights the show’s commitment to inclusivity and celebrating diverse experiences within the teenage journey.Lily didn’t return for the final season ofSex Educationbut fans surely miss her.
9Jean Milburn
Played by Gillian Anderson
Jean Milburn, played byGillian Anderson, is Otis’s mom and a renowned sex therapist.Jean is known for her confidence, intelligence, and openness about sexuality, which starkly contrasts with her son’s initial awkwardness.Despite her expertise, she grapples with her own complexities, including navigating relationships and parenting.
Furthermore, Jean is not just defined by her occupation but also by her emotional complexity. Her journey involves reconciling her professional persona with her personal vulnerabilities and striving to connect with her son on a deeper level.Jean’s relationship with Otis inSex Educationreveals the complexities of their mother-son relationship, as they both learn and grow from each other’s experiences. Furthermore, her final act in season 4 of the show also provides support and recognition for women dealing with postpartum depression as they attempt to balance their work and family responsibilities. Jean’s transformation from a confident woman to a more uncertain one as a mother of two illustrates the challenges of navigating everyday life, making her a relatable character for many viewers.
8Isaac Goodwin
Played by George Robinson
Isaac Goodwin (George Robinson) makes his debut in Season 2 when he and his brother become the latest residents at the caravan park, Maeve’s neighborhood. Initially, Isaac’s presence is a source of annoyance for Maeve, but over time, they forge a connection as Isaac starts developing feelings for her. Isaac becomes increasingly supportive and protective of Maeve. He assists her in searching for drugs in her caravan, as she harbors suspicions about her mother’s possible relapse.
While Isaac’s initial actions of trying to undermine Otis and Maeve’s relationship made him unpopular among their fans, he gradually endears himself. His wit and sardonic humor shine through, and he uses a blend of cynicism and self-deprecating humor, all while navigating life as a disabled individual.Following the show’s conclusion, Isaac’s relationship with Aimee becomes a fan favorite, and he maintains his role as a steadfast friend to Maeve.This highlights his fundamentally good character throughout the series.
7Michael Groff
Played by Alistair Petrie
Michael Groff (Alistair Petrie), commonly referred to as Mr. Groff, is the former headmaster at Moordale Secondary School and serves as Adam’s (Connor Swindells) stern father. He was first introduced in Season 1 as a strict parent frequently at odds with his son. He appeared to consistently express disappointment in Adam, and it was evident that Mr. Groff himself was dissatisfied with his own life.
Throughout the series, Mr. Groff’s character evolves as viewers learn about his troubled marriage and career dissatisfaction, shedding light on the pressures that shape his strict demeanor.Mr. Groff’scharacter arc throughout the showundergoes a remarkable transformation. He transitions from being a headmaster to working as a substitute teacher and eventually follows his passion for cooking. His relationship with his son, Adam, is a standout element of the show, marked by his evolution from a strict and stern figure to a more caring, sensitive, and understanding father and husband.
6Aimee Gibbs
Played by Aimee Lou Wood
Aimee Gibbs is a delightful character in the series who is brought to life by actressAimee Lou Wood. She’s a cheerful and popular high school student known for her infectious positivity and close-knit friendships.Aimee initially appears as the quintessential “mean girl” but quickly evolves into a more complex character.
Her character arc takes a profound turn when she experiences a traumatic incident on a bus, which forces her to confront vulnerability and triggers significant personal growth. Moreover, Aimee’s resilience and ability to find humor in challenging situations make her an endearing and relatable character. Aimee’s character development is quite noticeable throughout the show. She evolves from being a typical mean girl follower in the first season to pursuing a hobby as a baker.Aimee’s is also the best storyline inSex Education. She learns to cope with and overcome the bus trauma, highlighting the significant change in her character since the beginning.
5Ruby Matthews
Played by Mimi Keene
Ruby Matthews, portrayed byMimi Keene, is initially introduced as a popular and assertive student at Moordale Secondary School. She’s the leader of the “Untouchables,” a group of popular girls known for their confidence and beauty. Ruby appears to embody the stereotypical high school queen bee, but her character is far more nuanced.
As the series progresses, Ruby’s vulnerabilities and complexities come to light, revealing a young woman grappling with insecurities, friendships, and the challenges of adolescence. Her character growth underscores the show’s commitment to delving into the multifaceted nature of teenage experiences, adding depth to the narrative and making Ruby an intriguing and relatable character for the audience. Ruby’s character development is particularly remarkable and has garnered significant fan appreciation.Ruby’s character arc inSex Educationis the most transformative and the most evident among the characters, and while she and Otis may not have ended up together, her time with him allows her true self to shine through, and she embraces it with grace and authenticity.
4Adam Groff
Played by Connor Swindells
Adam Groff is a conflicted character who is initially introduced as the school’s bully and headmaster’s son.Throughout the show, Adam grapples with immense pressure to conform to societal expectations. His aggressive exterior conceals a vulnerable and sensitive core.
Additionally, Adam’s character arc is marked by a journey of self-discovery, as he confronts his sexuality, insecurities, and the impact of his family’s high expectations. His evolving relationships, especially with Eric, showcase the power of personal growth and acceptance. Adam’s transformation from a troubled antagonist to a more empathetic and authentic individual adds depth toSex Education, making him a compelling and relatable character for viewers. Additionally, Adam’s resolved relationship with his father, Mr. Groff, is a standout aspect of the show, underlining how much Adam has matured over the course of four seasons and is no longer afraid to confront his father when he isn’t treated properly.
3Eric Effiong
Played by Ncuti Gatwa
Played byNcuti Gatwa, Eric Effiong is a flamboyant and openly gay teenager with an unapologetic sense of self. His bold fashion choices, infectious personality, and unwavering confidence make him a beloved figure inSex Education. Moreover, throughout the show, Eric’s character grapples with issues of identity, acceptance, and the challenges of being true to oneself in a sometimes judgmental world.
In addition, his friendship with Otis and his complex relationship with his family add depth to his character.Eric’s storyline in the show is a touching exploration of self-discovery, self-acceptance, and the importance of embracing one’s true identity, endearing him to viewers as not only a relatable character but also a fan-favorite and fans would love to seeEric in aSex Educationspin-off.
