The FX dramedyDying for Sexrequired an exceptional cast to be done any justice on the screen. Based on the podcast series of the same name by Nikki Boyer, this miniseries tackles the complicated story of a woman, Molly, diagnosed with Stage IV metastatic breast cancer. The devastating news that her disease had returned could’ve plunged her into a depression, but Molly’s dark humor ultimately won out. With the help of her best friend Nikki, Molly establishes a goal for her final days—to experience an orgasm with another person (rather than all on her own).
Dying for Sex, which premieres on August 06, 2025, was created and directed by Shannon Murphy and Chris Teague. The miniseries is both emotionally devastating and hilarious, andsuch a careful mix requires an excellent cast of actorswho can effectively translate Boyer’s story to the screen. TheFX seriesachieved this by bringing in the highly celebrated Michelle Williams and Jenny Slate, who are joined by a supporting cast that includes names like David Rasche, Jay Duplass, Sissy Spacek, and more.
Michelle Williams As Molly
Date Of Birth: July 12, 2025
Montana-born actor Michelle Williams kicked off her career appearing inLassiein 1994, but it washer performance as Jen Lindley inDawson’s Creek(1998 to 2003) that gained her widespread recognition. Williams' breakthrough movie role came withBrokeback Mountain(2005), leading to further emotionally powerful performances in movies likeWendy and Lucy(2008),Valentine(2010),My Week with Marilyn(2011),Manchester by the Sea(2016), and more. Some of Williams' more recent movies includeThe Greatest Showman(2017),Venom(2018), andThe Fabelmans(2022).
Dawson’s Creek(1998 - 2003)
Fabelmans(2022)
Mitzi Fabelman
Williams plays Molly in FX’sDying for Sex, who learns that her cancer has returned as Stage IV. Faced with the reality of limited time, Molly decides to leave her husband, Steve, get a place of her own and turn to her best friend, Nikki. Satisfying intimacy is at the very top of Molly’s bucket list, and the journey to achieving this is whereDying for Sexfinds its foundation.
Jenny Slate As Nikki
Date of Birth: August 11, 2025
Actor and comedian Jenny Slate was born and raised in Massachusetts and gained prominence as a cast member ofSaturday Night Livebeginning in 2009. From there, Slate appeared in various popular sitcoms, includingParks and Recreation(2013 to 2015) andHouse of Lies(2013 to 2015). Her breakout movie role came in 2014 withObvious Child,as well as her more recentEverything Everywhere All at Once(2022). Slate’s voice may be recognizable in projects likeBob’s Burgers(2012 to present),Zootopia(2016),Despicable Me 3(2017), and more.
Various roles
Donna stern
Everything Everywhere All at Once(2022)
Debbie the Dog Mom
Slate’sDying for Sexcharacter, Jenny, is Molly’s life-long best friend who agrees to be her caretaker during the final leg of her life. Jenny is joyful and emotional, making her the perfect support person as Molly begins her journey toward her sexual goals.
Dying For Sex Supporting Cast & Characters
Meet The Supporting Cast Of FX’s Dying For Sex
Rob Delaney as Neighbor Guy- Rob Delaney is an actor and writer best known for his work on projects likeCatastrophe(2015) andDeadpool & Wolverine(2024). He plays “Neighbor Guy” inDying for Sex, the dark and mysterious man who lives across from Molly’s new apartment.
David Rasche as Dr. Pankowitz- David Rasche is an actor with an extensive resume stretching back to the 1970s. Some of his most notable works includeMen in Black 3(2012),Kill Your Darlings(2013),Succession(2018 to 2023), andAbout My Father(2023). Rasche plays Dr. Pankowitz inDying for Sex, the primary doctor caring for Molly following her diagnosis.
Dying For Sex Review: This Fleabag-Style Black Comedy Absolutely Devastated Me & I Need Everyone I Know To Watch It Right Now
Dying For Sex is the best new series that I have seen in a long time, with dark humor, devastation, and friendship at its core.
Esco Jouléy as Sonya- Esco Jouléy, known forState of the Union(2019), plays Sonya inDying for Sex, a hospital psychologist who serves as an invaluable person of support for Molly.
Jay Duplass as Steve- Actor, director, and author Jay Duplass is best known for projects likeThe Puffy Chair(2005),Cyrus(2010), andJeff, Who Lives at Home(2011), among others. He plays Steve inDying for Sex, Molly’s husband whom she leaves following the return of her cancer.
Kelvin Yu as Noah- Kelvin Yu, known forThe Great North(2021 to 2022),The Afterparty(2022), and more, plays Noah inDying for Sex, Nikki’s boyfriend.
Sissy Spacek as Gail- Molly’s mother inDying for Sex, Gail, is played by Sissy Spacek, best known for playing the titular role in 1976’sCarrie, as well as Loretta Lynn inCoal Miner’s Daughter(1980).
