The Oscar-winning actress Reveals Why She Didn't Use an Intimacy Coordinator on Latest Project Die My Love
The acclaimed actress has joined the increasing number of actors who voice skepticism about the necessity of on-set intimacy professionals, revealing she opted against their assistance while filming her new movie her upcoming film.
Examining the Role of Intimacy Coordinators
On-set intimacy professionals were introduced following the #MeToo movement to ensure the safety and ease of actors during scenes involving nudity and sexual content. Yet, numerous well-known actors including Gwyneth Paltrow and other established stars have voiced concerns about their presence, with some claiming they interfere with artistic process.
Lawrence's Personal Experience
Speaking during the Las Culturistas podcast, while discussing her latest project where she portrays a character experiencing mental health challenges, Lawrence commented: "We chose not to use an intimacy coordinator, or perhaps we had the option but didn't really utilize them... I felt entirely secure with Robert."
She continued: "He is not pervy and deeply devoted to Suki Waterhouse. What we discussed mostly revolved around our children and relationships. There was never uncomfortable moments or questions about professional limits."
"If there was even a hint of unease, I definitely would have insisted on an on-set professional. Many male actors get upset if you don't reciprocate their attention, and then the negative treatment begins. He was not like that."
Professional Validation and Continuing Discussion
Earlier this week, industry platform IMDb formally acknowledged intimacy coordinators as a distinct credit, alongside multiple additional crew positions including choreography, catering, and puppetry. Previously, they were grouped under "additional crew" instead of having their specific credit.
Despite this recognition, these professionals still encounter media scrutiny suggesting they might not be industry essential, with high-profile actors declining their involvement. Lawrence's perspective echoes that of another prominent actress, who previously revealed she declined professional supervision while filming alongside Jon Hamm on their television series.
Jennifer's Perspective
"Jon was such a gentleman – I mean every move, every cut, 'You comfortable?'" she recalled. "It was additionally carefully planned. That's the advantage of working with skilled editors, appropriate music. So, minimal preparation is needed."
Aniston continued, "They offered, 'Professional verification if you're comfortable,' and I responded, 'Honestly, this is sufficiently uncomfortable!' We're experienced professionals – we can handle this. And we had Mimi on set."
Additional Cases and Professional Response
Although including numerous scenes of intimate moments and regular undress, the award-winning film – Sean Baker's acclaimed film about a adult entertainer and a Russian oligarch's son – proceeded without an intimacy coordinator.
The film's star stated she and fellow actor her screen partner "concluded it would be preferable to maintain privacy."
"The role I play is a sex worker, and I had researched the director's work and understood his dedication to realism. I was mentally prepared for it. As an performer, I approached it as professional work."
Her comments provoked strong reactions from industry professionals, mirroring the reaction to another actress's public statements, who earlier this year revealed that filming her forthcoming project Marty Supreme represented her initial experience with the relatively new profession, which she "did not know existed."
Gwyneth's Viewpoint
When asked about comfort level with a specific move alongside co-star Timothée Chalamet, Paltrow answered: "I belong to the era where you remove clothing, you assume position, the filming begins."
She continued that she and Chalamet then informed the professional: "We think we're comfortable. You can step back.' I don't know how it is for emerging actors, but... if someone is directing, '{OK, then he's going to place his hand here,' I would feel, as an creative professional, very stifled by that."
Industry Response
Following these comments, industry executive an experienced producer described them as "irresponsible" and pointed out that most of those speaking against intimacy coordinators have established careers to command their own power and protection on production locations.
"Periodically an actor shares opinions about whether they value intimacy coordinators or not," said Hollick. "The actress stated she came of age in a period when industry professionals 'took our kit off and proceeded professionally'. As a established actress in Hollywood performing alongside a man much younger than her, although likely he is comfortable, I found it somewhat concerning statement."
Actor's Viewpoint
The veteran actor, in contrast, expressed that he believes the main obligation during intimate sequences rests with the male performer, rather than a third party.
"In my experience, you assume duty as the male actor to make certain the female co-star is at ease, you discuss it thoroughly," he said. "You communicate, '{OK, I'm going to touch you here if that's acceptable'. It's very deliberate but seems like it's happening naturally, which is hopefully what authentic performance looks like."