Sex and relationships are depicted on stage: this is not surprising. However, slightly less known, is the role working behind the scenes to make these portrayals possible: Intimacy coordinators work on stage or screen productions to choreograph intimate scenes.  

Whilst the role has existed for some time, the demand surfaced during the #MeToo movement.  The hashtag began gaining prominence in 2017, after actress Alyssa Milano used the phrase to respond to a tweet regarding sexual abuse allegations against Harvey Weinstein – a Hollywood producer. Victims of sexual harassment and abuse were encouraged to speak out, and this included celebrities. The surfacing allegations against various Hollywood figures called for urgent change within the industry to help protect actors.  It became apparent that the use of intimacy coordinators as a third-party could help to ensure a safe environment for actors, particularly in scenes involving nudity or simulated sex. 

As part of their role, they ensure that staff and actors are aware of the context of the intimacy, and that avenues for reporting harassment are available. They will check that actors consent to all scenes of intimacy, and will coordinate movement between actors. Scenes will be performed according to this previously-agreed choreography, meaning actors will not be taken by surprise, and they can feel more comfortable. Coordinators can also advocate on behalf of actors when talking to the production team, since the power dynamics in productions may leave actors feeling unable to speak up. Their role includes training in consent, anti-harassment, movement coaching, proper use of modesty garments and barriers, and mental health first aid. They can use tricks such as cushions, or even a half-inflated netball as used in Bridgerton, in order to help actors replicate movements without making contact physically 

Some actors criticise having an external party present during intimate scenes, such as Game of Thrones star Sean Bean. In 2022, he described how coordinators “spoil the intimacy” as they prevent experimental and spontaneous work.  When actor Toni Collette described her experience with intimacy coordinators, she also shared a negative view. Colette said: “It just felt like those people who were brought in to make me feel more at ease were actually making me feel more anxious,” and asked them to leave the set as she felt they weren’t helping. 

Hollywood actor Katherine Heigl, worked for an intimacy coordinator for the first time during her role in Netflix series Firefly Lane. She initially felt awkward with being directed during intimate scenes, but later “ended up loving [her coordinator] so deeply, and being so grateful for her”. She added: “she protected us in a way that I didn’t realise how unprotected we were.”  

Whilst people want to be committed to their job, it is important that actors can maintain their boundaries in the workplace. Intimacy coordinators are a helpful option to ensure actors are kept safe and comfortable, and the role has become a vital element during production of both theatre and cinema.

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