Don’t picture it. Don’t picture it.
What is the number one most uncomfortable conversation you could ever have? The ‘safe sex’ chat.
And who is the number one most uncomfortable person you could have this chat with? Harold Bishop from Neighbours. Everyone’s favourite Grandpa.
Ian Smith, who played the bumbling legend next door Harold, is the star in a safe sex education DVD for teenagers in schools. It’s part of a new teaching kit that will be released to Australian schools in response to La Trobe University’s staggering discovering that 40% of teenagers do not wear condoms when having sex.
So much wrong. Thank God Harold is getting involved – who would play fast an loose with protection and sexual health when faced with this expression of warning?
Ian plays a Grandad in the short film, called Ask Grandad, who has an important chat with his young granddaughter.
“The Grandad sits down at the desk with some condoms and describes how to use them, how to apply them, why they should be used, what they can safeguard you against.” Ian told News.com.au.
“It’s just a damned good idea.”
Just when things get awkward enough, out comes a pink rubber demonstration.
“Unlike me, condoms don’t age so well. Damaged condoms are about as useful as hand cream to a crab.”
Amen, Harold Ian.
The DVD also stars well-known Cliffy and SeaChange actor Kevin Harrington, who plays a father with concerns for his daughter’s new dating life. Bravo to these wonderful Aussie actors for bringing a bit of humour (and delightful awkwardness) to a sensitive subject. It’s a great initiative… though we don’t expect many teenagers to be asking Grandad for sex talks any time soon.
Top Comments
This sounds rather cute! The more safe sex talk the better, I think.
Why don't they cast a hip, young person that kids can relate too?? This is a really important message and if I was a 15 year old listening to an old dude talk condoms I'd be too busy laughing and sniggering to get the message.
I don't know but I'm guessing they've done their market research. My best bet is that there's some kind of campy appeal to the 'Harold' character among teens and they're trying to get at the kids that way.
Let's face it, it's going to play in a room full of smart arsed teenagers. They're all going to be laughing and sniggering no matter who the actor is. At least this way is line the grown ups are "in on the joke" with the kids.