Risdon Roberts is the newest surrogate partner therapist on Virgin Island, but some fans may recognise her from her acting past. The 42-year-old, born in Japan, is based in Los Angeles and works as an intimacy expert, advising for events, film, and TV.
What is a Surrogate Partner Therapist?
Risdon is the third so-called 'sex surrogate' on the show, alongside Kat Slade, 35, and Andre Lazarus, 42. She can offer two-way touch with the cast and even engage in full sex if deemed appropriate.
In tonight's episode (May 4), fans will see Risdon work with 25-year-old accountant Tegan, using directed gazing to stir up feelings of desire.
Why Did Risdon Join Virgin Island?
Risdon was inspired by Kat Slade's work on the first season and by her friend and colleague Andre Lazarus. She said: "Seeing Kat's incredible work on the first season really inspired me to want to participate. Andre and I have been friends and colleagues for years as well, so his positive experience during the first season was a major reason why I signed on."
As a queer woman, she also appreciated the show's exploration of diverse identities and sexualities. She enjoys the sex education elements, which are among her favourite parts of the work.
Why Does Risdon Roberts Look Familiar?
Fans may recognise Risdon from her acting background. She started her career in film and TV and trained as an intimacy coordinator before switching to her current career path. Her first big role was in the web series Bite Me, where she played Lauren, a character in a show about gamers surviving a zombie outbreak.
According to her IMDB page, her most recent TV work outside of Virgin Island is the 2017 mini-series This Place Is Weird, where she is credited as 'Risdon', and a 2023 comedy short Surprise! as 'Lulu'.
Virgin Island airs Monday and Tuesday nights at 9pm on Channel 4.
