Megan Prescott, known for her role in the series *Skins*, made a significant shift in her career from acting to sex work, specifically embracing platforms like OnlyFans. At just 16, she gained fame portraying Katie Fitch in *Skins*, which addressed the messy realities of teenage life. However, by 23, she found herself working as a stripper, a move she now describes as liberating rather than tragic.
Megan Prescott: A Journey of Self-Ownership
Prescott’s early experiences in the entertainment industry brought her significant fame but also pressures that impacted her mental health. She recalls the feeling of being sexualized at a young age, a situation that many in the industry profit from, while she did not. Today, at 34, Prescott sees sex work, particularly through platforms like OnlyFans, as a way to take ownership of her body and image.
From Child Star to Sex Worker
Prescott’s time on *Skins* was marked by both success and insecurities. While grateful for the opportunity, she encountered challenges in securing subsequent roles due to the stigma associated with her previous character’s portrayal of sex and drugs. The labor market became distressing; after *Skins*, Prescott struggled to find fulfilling work. She worked in various part-time jobs but faced judgments about her career choices.
- Age of onset: 16, starred in *Skins*.
- Age 23: Transitioned to stripping.
- Current age: 34, active in sex work and creative arts.
The Power of OnlyFans
In 2020, Prescott turned to OnlyFans for financial stability. This decision allowed her to capitalize on her image rather than be dictated by industry expectations. Stripping provided her with clarity; the transactional nature of sex work was straightforward compared to the ambiguous expectations in traditional acting roles.
Joining OnlyFans marked a turning point for Prescott. Financial security empowered her to pursue her passions in acting and directing without the burden of financial instability. She emphasized that many perceptions of sex work need reevaluation, suggesting that societal attitudes stem from discomfort with women’s sexual and financial autonomy.
Challenging Stigmas and Driving Change
Prescott is not just a participant in the sex work industry; she is an activist. She joined National Ugly Mugs’ Board Of Trustees to advocate for sex workers’ rights and challenge negative stereotypes. Her work aims to reshape how society views sex work, emphasizing the need for safety and acceptance for all types of sex workers, not just those in more privileged positions.
Through her work in activism and her show, *Really Good Exposure*, Prescott highlights the nuances of sex work and societal attitudes towards those involved in it. She also reported a shift in public opinion, citing polling data that more than half of UK adults support the full decriminalization of consensual adult sex work.
The Future of Sex Work and Activism
The conversation surrounding sex work is evolving. Prescott’s activism focuses on safety, rights, and societal attitudes towards sex work. She believes that dismantling stigma can lead to safer working conditions for all, rather than pushing the industry underground, which can exacerbate violence and exploitation.
Megan Prescott’s journey—from child star to sex worker—highlights the complexities of female empowerment in the entertainment industry. By sharing her story and advocating for change, she stands at the forefront of a movement challenging established norms surrounding sexuality and financial autonomy. As she continues to develop her craft, Prescott shows that understanding one’s worth can lead to a more fulfilling life.
