Melissa Todd, a dominatrix and sex worker with three decades of experience, has drawn attention by advocating for a closer relationship between Christianity and kink culture. Todd, who attended the University of Oxford before entering the adult entertainment industry, currently operates as a dominatrix specialising in domestic discipline and produces approximately 800 pornographic films annually. Despite her unconventional career, she remains a committed churchgoer and has spoken publicly about the compatibility between her faith and kink.

Todd, 49, has revealed that many of her clients include religious individuals, some of whom are clergy members. She emphasises that honesty and consent—key principles in kink—also resonate with Christian teachings. She argues that the Church of England should engage more openly with discussions about sexuality, advocating for a more inclusive approach toward those with alternative lifestyles.

“There’s often a misconception that kink and Christianity cannot coexist,” Todd said. “But I’ve found that there really is common ground.” She stressed the importance of the church addressing matters of desire and power openly, rather than viewing sex solely as a problem or taboo. According to Todd, fostering candid dialogue about sexuality could contribute to safer environments within faith communities, particularly in protecting individuals vulnerable to abuse.

Todd’s engagement with Christianity has deepened in recent years, especially since joining the liberal Union Church Margate, a Methodist congregation known for its welcoming stance toward the LGBTQ+ community. The church has gained attention for its inclusivity, drawing prominent visitors such as singer Madonna and artist Dame Tracey Emin earlier this year.

As part of her advocacy, Todd plans to lead a discussion titled “Kink and Christianity” at the Greenbelt Festival, a Christian arts and music event in Northamptonshire set for August. She will also present the talk at her church in Margate and explore the theme through her one-woman Edinburgh Fringe show, Gag Writer.

Todd, who is married to a Christian and has embraced her faith over the past five years, calls on the Church of England to be more accepting of same-sex and non-binary believers. “The Church definitely needs to get with it,” she said, highlighting the importance of communities where all feel “welcomed and loved.”

The Church of England declined to comment on Todd’s statements.