The Rising Star of Hollywood, Midori Francis, Talks About Her Role in “The Sex Lives of College Girls” and Her Journey as a Queer Actor
In an entertainment industry that has increasingly embraced diverse representations of sexuality, Midori Francis stands as a shining example of an actor who brings authenticity to her roles.
Known for her groundbreaking performances in “The Sex Lives of College Girls” and “Dash & Lily,” Francis has become a rising star.
As a queer actor playing LGBTQ+ characters, she’s actively involved in telling stories that reflect real struggles and triumphs, making her an influential figure for both her fans and aspiring artists.
The Rise of Midori Francis: From Theater to Television
Midori Francis has always had a passion for theater. From her childhood days in London, where she watched West End shows, to her academic journey at Rutgers University’s Mason Gross School for the Arts, Francis knew she wanted to be an actress.
Breaking into theater was a gradual process for her. “It was a combination of luck and being scrappy and determined,” Francis shared in an interview.
After auditioning tirelessly for years, she worked her way through regional theater, Off-Off-Broadway productions, and eventually TV and film roles.
Her hard work paid off with her standout performances in “Good Boys” and “Dash & Lily,” but it was her role in the critically acclaimed HBO series The Sex Lives of College Girls that catapulted her to even greater recognition.
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Breaking Boundaries with Alicia in “The Sex Lives of College Girls”
Francis’s portrayal of Alicia in The Sex Lives of College Girls has resonated deeply with audiences, particularly for her authentic depiction of a queer character navigating love and self-discovery.
Alicia is introduced as a strong and unapologetic leader at the Essex College Women’s Center. When she is paired with Leighton (played by Reneé Rapp), a closeted lesbian, their relationship evolves into one of the most talked-about storylines of the show.
For Francis, playing Alicia was an opportunity to bring depth and complexity to a queer character on television. “I’ve been wanting to play a queer character for a long time,” she shared.
“The opportunity to tell a story where a young woman comes out was something I felt passionate about. I want to tell these stories in a way that’s real and meaningful.”
The slow-burn enemies-to-lovers dynamic between Alicia and Leighton struck a chord with fans, earning the couple the nickname “Leicia” on Twitter.
The portrayal of their relationship is not only compelling because of their undeniable chemistry but also for the way it highlights the complexities of coming out and falling in love.
Francis has said that while Alicia’s role helps Leighton come out of the closet, she ensured that her character had her own journey, full of purpose and authenticity.
Personal Reflections on Queer Identity
Being a queer person herself, Francis connects deeply with the struggles her characters face. Her own experiences shaped her portrayal of Alicia, especially when it comes to navigating love and heartbreak.
Reflecting on her own coming-of-age experiences, Francis recalls her first love during her college years, which was dramatic and intense. She gave that same emotional weight to Alicia’s relationship with Leighton.
“There’s something about that first love that feels like the world is ending when it ends,” Francis said, emphasizing the importance of portraying genuine emotion on-screen.
“When you’re in your first serious relationship, it feels like the whole world is crashing down. That’s something I really wanted to capture with Alicia and Leighton.”
Francis also advocates for the importance of LGBTQ+ representation in media. She acknowledges the strides being made but believes there’s still more work to do.
“It’s really inspiring to see how Gen Z has embraced conversations around gender identity and sexuality, but there’s still a lot of nuance to explore,” she explained.
“Through projects like The Sex Lives of College Girls, we can show LGBTQ+ relationships in a more complex and realistic light.”
The Influence of Mindy Kaling
Francis’s involvement in the show was also deeply influenced by the series’ creator, Mindy Kaling, whose influence has been transformative in the entertainment industry.
Kaling’s commitment to diversity, representation, and nuanced storytelling drew Francis to the project. “I’ve admired Mindy for years. She’s created something so impactful, and I’m honored to be a part of that,” Francis said.
“Justin Noble, the showrunner, really understood the significance of telling a queer love story, and that passion made me believe in the role and the character of Alicia even more.”
For Francis, the character of Alicia was more than just a supporting role—it was an opportunity to break barriers and offer a positive portrayal of a queer relationship.
“It was important to me to tell a queer love story in a way that felt grounded and real,” she said.
A Commitment to Representation and Advocacy
Midori Francis’s commitment to showcasing queer characters on screen is not just a professional choice but also a personal one.
As a queer person, she values the impact her roles have on audiences, especially LGBTQ+ viewers who often feel underrepresented.
The feedback she receives from fans, particularly young people who feel seen for the first time, is something that deeply resonates with her.
“I want to be a part of projects that have meaning. Projects that help people feel seen,” Francis explained. “If I can help someone understand their own identity or make them feel validated, then I’ve done my job as an actor.”
Beyond her work on screen, Francis is also an advocate for more diverse representation in the entertainment industry.
As someone who identifies as both queer and Asian, she is passionate about promoting the visibility of people of color in roles that reflect their full humanity, not just their ethnicity or sexuality.
“The fact that we’re telling more diverse stories now is something to celebrate,” she said. “It’s important for everyone, no matter their background or identity, to see themselves represented on screen.”
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Looking Ahead: The Future of Midori Francis
With the renewal of The Sex Lives of College Girls for another season, Francis’s character, Alicia, is poised for further development.
Although fans are eager to see what happens next for Alicia and Leighton, Francis remains excited about continuing to be part of this groundbreaking show and exploring the depths of her character.
As she continues to rise in Hollywood, Midori Francis’s focus remains on telling meaningful, diverse stories.
She hopes to inspire the next generation of actors to embrace their authenticity, celebrate their identities, and never stop striving for more inclusive storytelling.
FAQ:
Is Midori Francis queer?
Yes, Midori Francis identifies as queer and has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ representation in her work.
What is the character of Alicia in The Sex Lives of College Girls like?
Alicia is a bold and unapologetic leader at the Essex College Women’s Center, and her relationship with Leighton highlights the complexities of coming out.
How does Midori Francis relate to her role as Alicia?
Francis relates to Alicia’s struggles as a queer person herself, drawing on her own experiences to portray the character’s emotional journey authentically.
What makes The Sex Lives of College Girls groundbreaking?
The show portrays a diverse range of characters, including queer women, and focuses on their relationships in a nuanced and authentic way.
What does Midori Francis hope to achieve in the future?
Francis is focused on continuing to tell stories that matter, offering representation for marginalized communities, and advocating for more inclusive storytelling in Hollywood.
