The Sex Lives of College star Reneé Rapp recently shared her experience after facing homophobic and slut-shaming comments.

Reneé Rapp haas returned as the fan-favourite Leighton in HBO Max’s series which follows four roommates as the navigate fitting in at New England’s prestigious Essex College.

The actress’ character, Leighton, shares a college dorm with fellow students Whitney (Alyah Chanelle Scott), Bela (Amrit Kaur), and Kimberly (Pauline Chalamet).

Speaking to People in a new interview, the actress revealed what it was like to play a gay character on-screen.

“When the first season came out, I had different people in my life. I was really afraid for the show to come out because I felt very judged, and I didn’t feel comfortable,” Rapp told People.

The actress explained she felt more resilient by the time the second season rolled around. “I actually was very excited for the second season to come out, because I felt much more comfortable to not be terrified to hear something either homophobic or slut-shaming, or things like that,” she said.

Rapp, who identifies as bisexual, found herself empowered by her character and on-screen storyline, despite finding navigating Leighton’s arc and her own life “a lot”.

By the end of season two, the show’s characters have faced new experiences and unexpected surprises of their own.

Without giving too much away, Rapp shares her hope for her character’s future: “I want her to find someone who is really, really, really good for her,” she said. “And I want her and Whitney to become best, best, best friends.”

Seasons one and two of The Sex Lives of College Girls is now streaming on HBO Max.