Writing characters with intersex variations for television

Throughout history, people with intersex variations have been positioned somewhere between ‘prodigy literature and pornography, mythology and medical discourse’. Contemporary representations have changed in step with societal values, yet it could be argued there is still slippage towards sensationalism. This article explores the writing of fictional characters with intersex variations for television. It is posited that screenwriters must go beyond limiting, stereotypical representations, and write characters with intersex variations ‘as an everyday social type’. Scripts that develop characters and narrative arcs in league with the intersex community rupture stigma and pre-inscription, defy current medical interference and promote ethical debates.