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Gillian Anderson, the acclaimed actress best known for her roles in The X-Files and more recently, Sex Education, has opened up about a surprising personal revelation. Playing the role of Jean Milburn, a free-spirited and insightful sex therapist on the hit Netflix series, has profoundly impacted her own perspective on sexuality and shame.

In a recent interview, Anderson, 56, shared that portraying Jean Milburn allowed her to confront and ultimately shed years of ingrained societal expectations and personal inhibitions surrounding sex. She described a journey of self-discovery, triggered by the show's open and honest exploration of intimacy, relationships, and sexual health.

“Playing Jean has been incredibly liberating,” Anderson explained. “She’s so unapologetically herself, so comfortable in her own skin, and so open about her experiences. It’s been a process of reflection for me, and I’ve realised that I have absolutely no reason to feel shame about my sexuality or my past.”

Sex Education, with its progressive and inclusive approach to discussing sex, has been lauded for its impact on normalizing conversations around intimacy and sexual wellbeing, particularly among young people. The show tackles a wide range of topics, from consent and pleasure to identity and relationships, with sensitivity and humour. Anderson’s portrayal of Jean Milburn is central to this, offering a grounded and relatable perspective on sex therapy and personal growth.

The role involved extensive research into sex therapy practices and a deep dive into the complexities of human relationships. Anderson credits the show’s writers and her fellow cast members for creating a supportive and collaborative environment that fostered vulnerability and honesty.

“It’s a testament to the show’s writing and the incredible talent of everyone involved that we were able to create something so authentic and impactful,” she said. “It’s been a privilege to be a part of it, and I’m incredibly grateful for the lessons I’ve learned along the way.”

Anderson’s candid admission has resonated with many, highlighting the power of representation and the importance of challenging societal norms surrounding sexuality. The actress’s journey underscores the profound impact that art can have on personal growth and self-acceptance, proving that sometimes, the best way to understand ourselves is to step into someone else’s shoes – or in this case, a sex therapist’s.

With Sex Education nearing its conclusion, Anderson’s legacy as Jean Milburn is secure. She’s not only entertained audiences worldwide but also sparked important conversations about sex, shame, and self-acceptance, leaving a lasting impact on the cultural landscape.