FX’s Dying for Sex is a compelling drama inspired by Molly Kochan’s true story, originally chronicled on the Wondery podcast she created with her close friend, Nikki Boyer.
Upon receiving a diagnosis of Stage IV metastatic breast cancer, Molly (Michelle Williams) makes the life-altering decision to leave her husband, Steve (Jay Duplass), and embarks on a journey to explore her sexual desires for the first time. With unwavering support and encouragement from her best friend, Nikki (Jenny Slate), Molly navigates this transformative experience until the end. The cast is rounded out by Rob Delaney as “Neighbour Guy”, Sissy Spacek as Gail (Molly’s mother), Jay Duplass as Steve (Molly’s ex-husband) and Kelvin Yu as Noah (Nikki’s boyfriend).
SPOILER-FREE REVIEW
Kim Rosenstock and Elizabeth Meriwether penned and co-created the series. They also serve as executive producers alongside Katherine Pope, Kathy Ciric, Wondery’s Hernan Lopez, Jen Sargent, Marshall Lewy, and Aaron Hart, as well as Michelle Williams, Nikki Boyer, Shannon Murphy, and Leslye Headland. Dying for Sex is produced by 20th Television.
Cancer is a difficult subject to tackle in entertainment, especially when mixed with comedy. The mere mention of the C-word evokes fear and dread, now imagine pairing it with discussions of sexual exploration. FX’s new series Dying for Sex takes on both in a way that is equal parts dramatic and humorous.
Starring the immensely talented Michelle Williams as Molly, the series follows her journey after learning her cancer has returned as Stage IV. With dark humour, unwavering tenacity, and the support of her best friend, Nikki (played by Jenny Slate), Molly makes the bold decision to leave her husband, Steve, and embark on a path of self-discovery and healing in the final chapter of her life.
This show offers an unflinching, deeply personal look at terminal illness through the lens of sexuality and empowerment. Dying for Sex is not a show to simply throw on in the background while doing housework, it demands your full attention. The on-screen chemistry between Williams and Slate is undeniable from the moment they appear as best friends. Slate impresses with her ability to navigate intense dramatic moments while delivering razor-sharp dark humour.
Williams, as always, delivers a powerhouse performance. Like a fine wine, she only gets better with time. Here, she masterfully balances heavy dramatic elements with a surprising ability to find humour in the darkest moments. The series explores several taboo aspects of sexuality, often in a comedic way, which helps soften the explicit nature of the material.
Rob Delaney’s portrayal of “Neighbor Guy,” a man who lives in Molly’s building, is both hilarious and heartfelt. His character enters the story a few episodes in, but his presence is instantly impactful. The time he and Williams spend together on screen creates a whirlwind of emotions that audiences will undoubtedly feel.
Sissy Spacek, as Molly’s mother Gail, feels perfectly cast in this production. Watching her and Williams craft a complex, layered mother-daughter relationship is a treat. Spacek’s dramatic moments hit hard, especially in the latter episodes. There were times I found myself reaching for tissues, sometimes from laughter, sometimes from heartbreak.
Esco Jouley also delivers an incredible performance as Sonya, Molly’s palliative care nurse. Jouley deserves recognition for her ability to bring warmth, depth, and authenticity to the role. Her interactions with Williams and Slate are unforgettable, drawing viewers in with a natural, magnetic presence.
Another welcome addition to the cast is character actor David Rasche as Dr. Pankowitz, Molly’s doctor. His dry, deadpan humour provides levity in many moments, but his portrayal is also filled with overwhelming kindness in how he supports Molly, her friends, and her family.
At its core, Dying for Sex is a story about acceptance, and the need to be loved, touched, and truly seen. Cancer doesn’t mean the end of living; for some, it reignites a desperate desire to find meaning. Michelle Williams’s portrayal of Molly is deeply moving, she makes the experience of living with Stage IV cancer feel raw and real, yet somehow hopeful. Her relationship with Nikki, played impeccably by Jenny Slate, is the heart of the series. You’ll laugh with them, cry with them, and ultimately, walk away with a new perspective on love, friendship, and life itself.
Based on the true story of Molly Kochan, as chronicled on the Wondery podcast she created with her close friend Nikki Boyer, this series is a powerful tribute. Boyer has done her friend proud, and I have no doubt Molly is looking down and smiling.
FX’s Dying for Sex Premieres on Disney+ in Canada on April 4, 2025
