Michael Douglas recently expressed his thoughts on intimacy coordinators in Hollywood during an interview with The Telegraph. While acknowledging that he is no longer concerned about sex scenes due to his age, he mentioned that he finds the trend of intimacy coordinators interesting. Douglas seemed to doubt the necessity of intimacy coordinators, stating that it feels like executives are taking control away from filmmakers. He also highlighted the importance of taking responsibility as an actor during scenes that involve intimacy, ensuring that everyone involved is comfortable.
The actor compared sex scenes to fight scenes, emphasizing that they are choreographed and that it is essential to communicate and discuss boundaries with the other actor. Douglas believes that in the past, actors were able to handle any inappropriate behavior or overstepping of boundaries internally without the need for intimacy coordinators. However, he acknowledged that there have been instances of terrible faux pas and harassment that may have led to the implementation of this new role on set. Despite his skepticism, he joked about what it would have been like to have an intimacy coordinator present during some of his past projects.
Jennifer Aniston, another Hollywood A-lister, also shared her perspective on intimacy coordinators during a recent interview. While preparing to shoot sex scenes with Jon Hamm for The Morning Show, Aniston felt protected with director Mimi Leder there, and they did not use an intimacy coordinator. Aniston revealed that they were offered an intimacy coordinator but declined, as she felt that they were seasoned enough to handle the scenes on their own. She joked about being from the “olden days” and not fully understanding the concept of an intimacy coordinator.
In contrast, Ewan McGregor and Mary Elizabeth Winstead, who are both actors and real-life partners, did employ an intimacy coordinator while filming intimate scenes for their project A Gentleman in Moscow. McGregor expressed that intimacy coordinators are now an essential part of the work, not only for the actors but also for the crew involved in the production. He mentioned that it can feel odd to be naked or intimate in front of the camera, and having an intimacy coordinator present helps create a safe and comfortable environment for everyone on set.
Overall, the use of intimacy coordinators in Hollywood has become a more common practice, with some actors like McGregor believing that they are necessary for creating a respectful and professional working environment during intimate scenes. While some actors, like Douglas and Aniston, may still have reservations about the need for intimacy coordinators, the industry is recognizing the importance of ensuring that all actors and crew members feel safe and supported during potentially vulnerable moments on set. As the conversation around consent and boundaries continues to evolve, the role of intimacy coordinators is likely to become more prominent in the film and television industry.
