Escort Boys, the popular French series available on Prime Video, has garnered attention not just for its charming male cast but also for its portrayal of diverse female characters. The second season is no exception, offering a variety of personalities and complex backstories for the women who hire the series’ protagonists. But are these characters based on real women, or are they purely fictional? Let’s dive into the truth behind the inspiration for these fascinating personas.
Inspiration from Real Women
The question on everyone’s mind: are the female characters in Escort Boys based on actual women? According to the show’s director, Ruben Alves, the answer is yes. In a conversation at the Canneseries Festival in April 2025, Alves revealed that many of the characters who make up the show’s diverse female clientele are inspired by real people. The director shared that much of the inspiration comes from stories and experiences he hears about or witnesses around him, bringing a deeply personal touch to the storytelling.
Writing, Alves explained, is often a reflection of one’s experiences. While imagination plays a role, the emotions and situations portrayed in the show stem from real-life connections. Alves took special care to highlight that many of the women featured in the series are inspired by friends he knows personally, paying tribute to their experiences and struggles. For instance, in season 2, the character who deals with sex addiction was directly influenced by a real-life individual Alves knows. It’s a raw, honest portrayal of the complex nature of human relationships.
Real-Life Stories Behind the Characters
Let’s take a closer look at some of the characters who might seem a little too real to be entirely fictional. One of the most memorable characters in season 1 is Olivia, a woman battling cancer. As it turns out, Olivia is not just a character on screen but a tribute to a real woman who lived a powerful life, including a remarkable marriage. She’s no longer with us, but her story, as Alves mentioned, continues to touch the hearts of the cast and crew.
Another striking example comes from season 1, where an artist played by Estelle Meyer refuses to engage in traditional sexual positions. Alves and his team consulted with a real-life individual who expressed her own boundary: she preferred standing and being face-to-face, demanding equality in intimate moments. This fascinating detail made its way into the show, reflecting a woman’s desire for autonomy and respect in her relationships.
Women You Know, and Maybe Even Yourself
It’s clear that Escort Boys draws inspiration from real experiences, portraying women who are multifaceted and nuanced. The show’s characters reflect the complexity of real women — some of whom may see themselves in these stories. Ruben Alves and his team take pride in these authentic portrayals, knowing that many of these characters are based on the lives of women they know and love.
So, the next time you watch an episode, think about the real-life stories that contributed to the development of these characters. You might just recognize someone you know, or perhaps, you’ll see a little bit of yourself. In the end, these characters aren’t just fictional creations—they are tributes to the women who’ve shaped the experiences of those behind the screen.
Escort Boys doesn’t just entertain—it celebrates the strength, diversity, and complexity of women’s lives, all while keeping us engaged with humor, drama, and unforgettable performances.
