Bertie, a 24-year-old from Taunton featured on Channel 4’s Virgin Island, shared a touching and confidence-boosting moment with sexologist Celeste Hirschman during the show’s second series premiere.
In a preview clip from the new season, Bertie, who describes himself as a “grade-A virgin,” participates in a private session with Celeste. Sitting close, Celeste rests her head on Bertie’s chest, warmly praising his openness: “You perfectly invited me in and cuddled me.” She adds, “I really like it when you put your cheek next to my forehead,” helping to ease Bertie’s nerves.
Their connection deepens as Bertie tenderly kisses Celeste’s forehead. In return, Celeste plants a gentle kiss on his cheek, leaving a lipstick mark — a symbol of this breakthrough moment.
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Reflecting on the experience, Bertie says, “Celeste was just brilliant,” pointing proudly to the lipstick on his cheek. He describes feeling “a lot more relieved and a lot more at ease with everything,” calling the encounter a much-needed confidence boost.
Later, Bertie reveals the mark to fellow participants, who cheer him on as he embraces his newfound assurance.
Bertie recently appeared on This Morning alongside co-star Joy, opening up about the challenges of remaining a virgin. He explained that his discomfort goes beyond physical intimacy, including difficulties with approaching women, navigating dating, and overcoming social awkwardness.
He shared, “It’s not just the intimacy part of relationships that I feel uncomfortable with… it’s about how to approach women, how to make the first move, even the dating part because I’ve never been on a date before. I just have no experience.”
Additionally, Bertie revealed that struggles with body image create further mental barriers for him.
Virgin Island’s new season, featuring real journeys toward intimacy and confidence, premiered on Monday, April 27 at 9pm on Channel 4.