In a society where “ists” run rampant --ageists, racists, classists, sexists; you get the point-- it’s extremely important to represent the narratives and the truths of all people that are left at times on the margins of American society.

 

It is no secret that when individuals come into their older years, they are held at a marginally lower status within the societal ladder as opposed to their younger counterparts. No matter their position in their careers or their credentials, old folk are often forgotten.

 

Netflix released a series in 2015 that has since opened up conversation when it comes to an older generation and... sexuality.

 

“Grace and Frankie”, which stars Jane Fonda as Grace Hansen and Lily Tomlin as Frankie Bergstein, tells the story of two women in their 70’s who were both left by their husbands, Robert and Sol, and forced to live a life in which they do everything independently which is understandingly hard to do after 40 years of marriage. Robert and Sol were business partners for many years, and through their business relationship evolved an intimate relationship that they hid from their respective partners for over 20 years. After Robert and Sol came out to Grace and Frankie, the two women decided to move into the shared beach house to pursue their own lives and interests without the interference from their ex-husbands. In being on their own, Grace and Frankie worked on repairing their own relationship.

 

The character dynamic within the show is easily the most interesting aspect of G&F. One of the characters in the show, Babe, is both Grace and Frankie’s close friend who comes home after an extended adventure abroad. Upon her return, Babe informs Frankie that she is in for one last “going away party”; Babe is stricken with cancer and decides to end her life on her own terms. With much questioning and sadness pouring out of both women, they supported Babe in her decision to pass away in a comfortable setting surrounded by loved ones. The day after the party, Grace and Frankie find gifts from Babe that help get their wheels turning. Frankie gets an art show; Grace gets a vibrator.

 

After receiving her gift, Grace begins to question the validity of her sexual interactions and what constitutes good sex that is pleasurable to not only the man, but especially to her, too. This small gift is one of the biggest acts of symbolism within the series. The act of openly receiving the vibrator shows that older women are not just having sex for the hell of it, but they’re doing it for enjoyment and for pleasure which is entirely valid regardless of age.

 

This show offers so many opportunities to explore the experience of an older woman in modern times that contemplates new and budding relationships, sexuality, and sexual pleasure.  At first glance, this show may not seem to be the right cup of tea, but there is a lot to be said when it comes to all that this production has done in regards to the portrayal of the older generation and their tie to sexual activity and sexual expression. With more stories like that of Grace and Frankie being portrayed, there are more opportunities for viewers to understand and experience that is not like their own and that makes all of the difference.