Jenny Slate and Michelle Williams star in the new Hulu series “Dying for Sex.” The show is based on the true story of Molly Kochan and her friend Nikki Boyer. Kochan was diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer at age 42. She left her husband and began exploring her sexuality.
She had many encounters, from adventurous to unconventional. These included spending time with a foot fetishist and trying “water sports.”
Boyer suggested turning Kochan’s experiences into a podcast. The result was “Dying for Sex” in 2020.
It was an unexpected hit. Kochan’s candidness and humor while facing a terminal illness showed human resilience. Williams portrays Kochan in the TV adaptation.
The heart-wrenching and humorous story deeply moved her. Slate plays Boyer, who became Kochan’s caregiver in her final months. Kochan’s libido surged after starting hormone treatment.
She posted provocative selfies online and had liaisons with several men. One memorable encounter involved a man who wanted to be treated like a caged dog. Many of these experiences were condensed into the character “Neighbour Guy” in the show.
Rob Delaney plays this role. Kochan was open-minded and kind in her brief relationships. Exploring her urges led Kochan to revelations about her past.
She was molested at age seven by her mother’s boyfriend. Dominating partners as an adult gave her a sense of control she lacked as a child. Sex became empowering rather than shameful.
Cancer, friendship, and self-discovery
This helped her cope with cancer and maintain control over her treatment. As time passed, Kochan yearned for deeper connections beyond the initial distractions.
Romantic love eluded her, but she had a profound friendship with Boyer until the end. After Kochan’s death in 2019, Boyer continued their project using recordings, Kochan’s devices, and her nearly finished book. The podcast remains six episodes, but more were planned to explore Kochan’s trauma and Boyer’s own struggles.
The TV adaptation makes some changes but keeps Kochan’s journey intact. Her recorded words are included in the script. It’s a story of self-acceptance and embracing life in the face of terminal illness.
Kochan found peace, viewing death as another adventure. Slate’s portrayal of Boyer required balancing humor and sorrow. The show’s creators needed someone funny who could also break hearts in the same moment.
Slate had to make viewers believe Boyer was someone you’d want with you in your last moments. Memorable scenes include Boyer entertaining Kochan with a medley of performances. The humor and sadness blend to reflect life’s complexities.
Kochan’s diagnosis becomes a portal to explore her true self. The series also explores caregiving. Boyer’s journey involves staying present and adapting to Kochan’s needs.
Her initially chaotic nature becomes a source of support and growth. Conflicts illustrate the complexity of their relationship. Differentiation is essential for the characters’ rich, full journey.
In the end, the show gently guides viewers to see that while serious, death is a natural part of life. “Dying for Sex” looks at life and death through a compassionate, humorous, and deeply human lens.
