Adult Lifestyle Centre Featured in SBS Series “Latecomers”
Creating Inclusive Spaces for All
The Adult Lifestyle Centre at Kogarah was specifically selected by SBS as the filming location for on of their episodes of the SBS Latecomers Series. This is because of our reputation as a truly wheelchair accessible and disability-friendly adult shop in Sydney. This recognition highlights our ongoing commitment to creating genuinely inclusive spaces where everyone can explore their sexuality with dignity and support.
Accessibility as a Core Value
Our store’s thoughtful design features wider aisles, accessible display heights, and welcoming staff trained in disability awareness—elements that made our location the perfect setting for this important production. During filming, our inclusive consultants provided enthusiastic support to the cast and crew, sharing their expertise to ensure authentic representation throughout the process.
About the “Latecomers” Series
This innovative SBS series follows two strangers with cerebral palsy, Frank (played by Thompson) and Sarah (played by Diviney), as they navigate their relationships with sexuality. The story begins when they witness their carers connecting romantically at a bar, inspiring them to explore their own desires and their evolving relationship with each other.
Breaking New Ground in Representation
“Latecomers” brings a refreshing perspective to mainstream television—bold, genuinely funny, and occasionally heart-wrenching. The series thoughtfully portrays the complexities of sexuality and disability without resorting to stereotypes or inspiration narratives. Instead, it presents fully realized characters pursuing the same human connections we all seek.
Our Store as a Production Setting
Almost an entire episode was filmed within our Adult Lifestyle Centre, capturing the real environment where many people, including those with disabilities, explore their sexuality. This authentic setting adds depth to the storytelling while highlighting our store’s accessibility features that accommodate diverse needs.
Advancing the Conversation
The series represents a significant step forward in disability representation in Australian media, addressing topics often overlooked in mainstream entertainment. We’re proud that our inclusive space could contribute to a production working to normalize conversations around disability and sexuality—subjects that deserve thoughtful, authentic portrayal.
Supporting Authentic Storytelling
By participating in this ground-breaking production, we reinforced our commitment to supporting genuine representation of diverse experiences. The collaboration allowed us to share our inclusive approach with a wider audience while helping create content that reflects the reality of many customers we proudly serve.
Click on the image below to sign in and watch.
Why Latecomers Is Ground Breaking and Exciting?
“Latecomers is not only pure joy, it’s a story that is otherwise underrepresented on Australian screens,” said SBS Commissioning Editor, Loani Arman. “It will have viewers laughing and crying, as Sarah and Frank navigate their way through the highs and lows of love and sex.”
Co-writer and co-creator Emma Myers said “Latecomers was created to combat the assumptions people have about the intimate lives of men and women living with disabilities. Too often characters with disabilities are shown leading sexless lives. With Latecomers, Angus, Nina and I saw an opportunity to explore intimacy and disability on screen in a realistic and authentic way.
Latecomers Creaters – Keeping It Raunch But Real
Authentic, unvarnished representations of people with disability were few and far between on screens big and small when Latecomers co-creators Emma Myers and Angus Thompson, both writers with cerebral palsy, were growing up. When characters did appear, they were usually relegated to supporting roles, almost certainly had zero sex life and, more often than not, were portrayed by actors without lived experience.
“I can count on one hand how many times I felt connected to a character, and I wouldn’t even need all of my fingers,” Myers says. “Scarlett Johansson in The Horse Whisperer was about as close to feeling represented as I could get as an angry teenage girl who had to go through the reality of accepting disability while also going through puberty. I still cry at that film, but other than that, there was just nothing.”
Inspiring Story of Latecomers SBS Series and Their Portrayal of Sex and Disabilities
Breaking barriers and challenging societal norms is an important aspect of any entertainment industry. And that’s exactly what the Latecomers SBS series does with its portrayal of sex and disabilities. This show has captured the hearts of millions of viewers worldwide with its honest and inspiring stories of individuals who are breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes.
The show’s unique perspective on sex and disabilities has helped to bring awareness to these often overlooked topics and has inspired many to take action and make a difference in their own lives. With its compelling storytelling and powerful message, the Latecomers SBS series is a must-watch for anyone looking for a fresh perspective on the world of sex and disabilities.
Join us as we explore the inspiring journey of this ground-breaking series and the incredible people behind it.
Portrayal of sex and disabilities in the series
Sex and disability are two topics that are often considered taboo in society. Latecomers SBS series, however, takes a different approach by portraying these topics in a positive and empowering light. The show’s creators recognized the need for representation in media, particularly for individuals with disabilities who are often overlooked or misrepresented. This series aims to break down stereotypes and showcase the diversity of human experiences.
Latecomers is brutally honest
It does not shy away from the complexities and challenges that people with disabilities face, when it comes to sex and relationships. It also highlights the joys and pleasures that can come with these experiences. By portraying sex and disabilities in a realistic and honest way, the series helps to break down the stigma surrounding these topics and promote a more inclusive and understanding society.
The Latecomers SBS series also features a diverse cast of characters with disabilities, each with their own unique experiences and challenges. This diversity helps to showcase the breadth of experiences within the disabled community and further break down stereotypes.
Including individuals with disabilities in the production process, ensuring that the series is not just about representation but also encourages participation and empowerment.
Breaking the Barriers
Societal norms can be powerful, often limiting individuals and perpetuating harmful stereotypes. Latecomers SBS series challenges these norms by portraying individuals with disabilities as complex, multifaceted individuals with their own desires, dreams, and challenges. Encouraging viewers to see beyond the disability and recognize the humanity of each character.
It also challenges societal norms around sex and relationships
Particularly for individuals with disabilities. By portraying individuals with disabilities as sexual beings, the show breaks down the stereotype that individuals with disabilities are asexual or unable to have relationships. It encourages a more inclusive and accepting society that recognizes the diversity of human experiences.
Series features female characters who are unapologetic about their sexuality and desires, challenging the stereotype that women should be passive or submissive in sexual relationships. Creating a space where women’s sexuality could be celebrated and normalized, encouraging a more open and accepting society.
The Media
Representation in media is crucial for promoting understanding, acceptance, and empathy. When people from marginalized communities are represented in media, it helps to break down stereotypes and promote a more inclusive and understanding society.
The Latecomers SBS series is a prime example of the power of representation in media, particularly for individuals with disabilities. Featuring a diverse cast of characters with disabilities, the series promotes a more nuanced understanding of disability and challenges harmful stereotypes.
Impact of Latecomers
The show’s impact cannot be understated and has brought awareness to topics that are often overlooked or stigmatized, particularly around sex and disabilities. By portraying these topics in a positive and empowering light, and has also inspired many individuals to take action and make a difference in their own lives.
The stories of the characters in the series serve as a reminder that individuals with disabilities are just as capable of achieving their goals and living fulfilling lives as anyone else.
Interviews with the cast and crew
The Latecomers SBS series would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of its cast and crew. In interviews, the cast and crew have spoken about the challenges and rewards of working on a show that tackles such important and often overlooked topics.
Many have also shared their own personal experiences with disabilities or sexuality, highlighting the importance of representation in media.
The cast and crew have also discussed the impact that the show has had on their own lives and the lives of others. Many have spoken about the messages they receive from viewers who have been inspired by the show and its characters. The interviews provide a glimpse into the passion and dedication that went into creating such an inspiring and impactful series.
Challenges
The Latecomers SBS series faced numerous challenges during production, including finding a cast and crew that understood the importance of representation in media and navigating the often complex and sensitive topics of sex and disabilities.
Also navigating the expectations of network executives who may have been hesitant to air a series that challenges societal norms. Despite these challenges, the show’s creators persevered, driven by their passion for promoting understanding and inclusivity.
Representation in media
The Latecomers SBS series is just one example of the power of representation in media. As society becomes more aware of the need for inclusivity and representation, it is likely that we will see more shows like this. The future of representation in media is bright, with more and more people from marginalized communities taking control of their own narratives, and advocating for change.
As we move forward, it is important that we continue to support and promote representation in media, ensuring that all individuals have a voice and a place in our society.
Recognition for Latecomers SBS Series
The show has also received critical acclaim, with many praising its honest and empowering portrayal of individuals with disabilities. The recognition that the show has received serves as a testament to the power of representation in media and the impact that the Latecomers SBS series has had on society.
We need to continue to support and promote representation in media, ensuring that all individuals have a voice and a place in our society.
Adultsmart and the Adult Lifestyle Centre in Kogarah are proud to have been part of this story.
SBS Latecomers Series
What is the SBS Latecomers series about?
Latecomers is an Australian comedy-drama series on SBS that follows the story of two strangers with cerebral palsy who bond over their shared experiences and frustrations with being treated differently. After meeting at a bar, their chance encounter sparks both a friendship and a candid exploration of sexuality, independence, and desire. The series challenges stereotypes and aims to give authentic voice to people with disabilities.
Who created the SBS Latecomers series?
Latecomers was created by Emma Myers, Angus Thompson, and Nina Oyama. The show was produced by Lazy Susan Films for SBS. All three creators have direct or personal connections to the disability community, which adds depth and authenticity to the storytelling. The writers and cast include people with lived experience of disability, pushing forward real representation on Australian screens.
Who are the main characters in Latecomers?
The series centers around Frankie and Charlie, two adults living with cerebral palsy. Frankie is a strong-willed woman who resents being overprotected, while Charlie is more reserved and introspective. Their connection develops through awkward, raw, and funny moments as they explore sex, love, and freedom outside the confines of societal expectations. The cast includes Angus Thompson and Hannah Diviney, both of whom bring powerful, lived-in performances to their roles.
How many episodes are there and where can I watch Latecomers?
Latecomers consists of six episodes, each running for around 15 minutes. The entire series is available to stream on SBS On Demand, SBS’s free streaming service in Australia. It’s also available with captions and audio description, making it accessible to a wider audience. The short-form structure makes it easy to binge-watch in one sitting.
Why is Latecomers considered an important series?
Latecomers breaks new ground by placing disabled people at the center of stories about love, sex, and personal growth—topics often ignored in mainstream media. It doesn’t shy away from adult themes but handles them with honesty, humour, and respect. It also empowers disabled voices not just in front of the camera, but behind it too. The series is part of a growing shift toward inclusive storytelling in Australian television.
