Actors Who Championed On-Set Intimacy Coordinators for All

Intimacy coordinators are changing how movies and TV shows are made, making sure actors feel safe and comfortable during intimate scenes. Though the push for this role came mainly from women in the industry, many male actors have publicly supported it. Some have actively requested intimacy coordinators on set, while others have said they wish this type of support had been available earlier in their careers. Here’s a look at some male actors who are helping to create a safer and more respectful work environment for everyone by supporting the use of intimacy coordinators.

Sam Heughan

Sam Heughan championed on-set safety by bringing in an intimacy coordinator for ‘Outlander’. He realized the show’s sensitive scenes needed a professional to ensure the actors’ well-being. He acknowledged that filming those scenes was challenging in previous seasons without that support and proper boundaries. Heughan feels a coordinator helps actors concentrate on their work, not the practical details. His initiative has become a benchmark for other long-running TV shows.

Penn Badgley

Penn Badgley started an important discussion in the entertainment industry when he asked for fewer intimate scenes in the show ‘You’. He collaborated closely with an intimacy coordinator to ensure his boundaries were respected while still serving the story. Badgley explained that having someone else present made discussing these scenes open and professional. He also said the coordinator helped him stay true to his marriage while still doing his job effectively. Badgley continues to support actors having the power to decide what they’re comfortable with physically.

Kumail Nanjiani

Kumail Nanjiani recently spoke out in favor of intimacy coordinators during a popular online discussion. He explained that these professionals actually improve scenes by helping actors feel safe and comfortable, allowing them to deliver their best work. Nanjiani countered the argument that safety stifles creativity, pointing out that it’s similar to how stunt coordinators ensure physical safety on set. He believes that when actors aren’t worried about their well-being, they’re freer to be more creative. Nanjiani continues to advocate for careful planning and choreography in all physically demanding scenes.

Paul Mescal

Paul Mescal praised intimacy coordinator Ita O’Brien, saying her guidance was crucial to his success on ‘Normal People’. He explained that he would have been very stressed filming the show’s intimate scenes without her help. He particularly valued how she approached sex scenes as a carefully choreographed process, which allowed him to fully embody his character without feeling personally exposed. Because of this positive experience, Mescal now requests an intimacy coordinator on every project he works on.

Ewan McGregor

Working on ‘Halston’ was my first time with an intimacy coordinator, and honestly, it was a game-changer. It made me realize how much I wish this role had existed throughout my whole career. This person was so important – a real buffer between the actors and the director – and it took away any potential awkwardness or uncertainty on set. It was such a relief! Now, I really feel strongly that all younger actors deserve to have this kind of support and protection on every project.

Regé-Jean Page

Regé-Jean Page, known for his role in the first season of ‘Bridgerton’, praised the show’s intimacy coordinator, saying they were key to the show’s success. He explained that the strong on-screen chemistry came from feeling secure and well-rehearsed. Page likened the work of choreographing intimate scenes to learning dialogue or practicing fight choreography, noting that clear direction about physical contact reduced anxiety and allowed for a more natural performance. He believes this careful preparation ultimately made the show look effortless.

Jonathan Bailey

Like his fellow actors, Jonathan Bailey strongly supported the use of intimacy coordinators while starring in ‘Bridgerton’. He worked closely with the on-set coordinator to create a process where consent was checked and confirmed before each scene was filmed. Bailey saw the coordinator as a vital safeguard, protecting both the story and the actors involved. He explained that having a professional present helped turn potentially uncomfortable filming days into normal, productive work. Bailey frequently speaks about how important these safety measures are.

Andrew Garfield

Andrew Garfield has talked about how much easier it is to film intimate scenes when an intimacy coordinator is involved, especially on shows like ‘Under the Banner of Heaven’. He feels it’s incredibly liberating because it takes away the stress of figuring out what’s acceptable. He’s grateful the coordinator manages the details of consent, allowing him to concentrate on his performance. He sees the coordinator as a safety net, providing support if an actor feels uncomfortable or uncertain. Garfield believes that feeling safe actually helps actors be more creative.

Rahul Kohli

Rahul Kohli publicly defended the use of intimacy coordinators after some veteran industry professionals raised doubts about their necessity. He explained that while the process might seem overly formal, it’s crucial for ensuring the safety of actors. Kohli highlighted that coordinators facilitate open and positive communication between directors and performers. He also shared that he personally struggles with body image issues and greatly appreciates the support they provide, urging all productions, no matter how small their budget, to implement these standards.

Sean Gunn

Sean Gunn explained that intimacy coordinators are like lifeguards – just because someone knows what they’re doing doesn’t mean safety precautions aren’t necessary. He feels the old-fashioned, ‘tough it out’ approach to filmmaking is risky and harmful, and strongly believes that careful preparation can prevent on-set trauma. Gunn champions a work environment where asking for assistance is seen as a positive thing.

Taron Egerton

Taron Egerton spoke highly of the intimacy coordination on the set of ‘Rocketman,’ particularly praising the work done with Richard Madden. He explained that the coordinator ensured the scenes depicting their characters’ relationship were handled with respect and sensitivity. Egerton felt the careful, planned approach made the scenes feel authentic and avoided being exploitative, and he believes this level of care is an important step forward for filmmaking.

Richard Madden

Richard Madden agreed with his fellow actors about how important choreographed intimacy is. He explained that having a coordinator on sets like ‘Rocketman’ and ‘Bodyguard’ let him concentrate completely on portraying the emotions of the scene. He added that clear guidelines made filming quicker and more effective, and that setting boundaries upfront helps avoid awkwardness or miscommunication. Madden strongly believes these coordinators create a safe and well-organized working environment.

Asa Butterfield

Asa Butterfield, who has spent much of his life acting, has publicly praised the safety measures taken during the filming of ‘Sex Education.’ He specifically thanked the show’s intimacy coordinator for helping the young actors understand and respect their personal boundaries. Butterfield explained that even when filming scenes alone, he needed professional support to feel comfortable and maintain his dignity. He feels the show created a great example for how to responsibly produce shows about teenagers.

Ncuti Gatwa

Ncuti Gatwa spoke highly of the support offered by the intimacy team on ‘Sex Education’. He explained that the coordinator helped the actors confidently handle sensitive and complicated scenes. Gatwa felt having a professional present gave him the freedom to voice any concerns. He also appreciated how the team’s work with movement and physicality actually improved his performance, rather than holding him back. He believes intimacy coordinators are essential for television today.

Connor Swindells

Connor Swindells, who starred in ‘Sex Education,’ praised the show’s intimacy coordinator, saying they were essential to how the series was made. He found that carefully planning and rehearsing intimate scenes helped ease any awkwardness. Swindells believes the safe and professional environment fostered a strong connection between the actors, and he now wants this level of support on all his projects.

Theo James

Theo James collaborated with an intimacy coordinator while filming ‘The White Lotus’ to navigate his character’s sensitive scenes. He explained that the coordinator clarified what the cameras needed, allowing him to deliver a powerful performance while respecting boundaries. James stressed that the focus was on telling the story authentically, and that precise technical work actually enhances the believability of on-screen relationships.

Sebastian Stan

Sebastian Stan strongly supported having intimacy coordinators on the set of ‘Pam & Tommy’. He approached the show’s intimate scenes with the same care and attention to detail as he did the action sequences. Stan explained that the coordinator helped him and his co-stars navigate challenging conversations. He also appreciated that having someone else present took the pressure off of constantly monitoring his partner’s comfort. Stan believes intimacy coordinators are now essential for professional film and television production.

Barry Keoghan

Barry Keoghan collaborated closely with a coordinator while filming the more daring scenes in ‘Saltburn’. He appreciated the supportive atmosphere on set, which allowed him to push boundaries and take risks. Keoghan felt safe thanks to the established safety measures, giving him the confidence to be open and vulnerable. He explained that the coordinator was key in aligning his own creative impulses with the director’s overall vision. Ultimately, Keoghan emphasized that trust is crucial for any successful film project.

Jacob Elordi

Jacob Elordi, known for his roles in shows like ‘Euphoria’ and ‘Saltburn’, has emphasized how important intimacy coordinators are when filming challenging scenes. He values the clear guidelines these professionals set before shooting begins, believing they safeguard the actors’ well-being. Elordi feels intimacy coordinators should be a standard part of any serious drama production.

Zac Efron

Zac Efron commended the intimacy coordinators on ‘The Iron Claw’ for their skilled and professional work. He highlighted how much the film industry has improved since he began his career, and he appreciates the added safety these measures provide. Efron explained that the coordinator fostered a strong connection among the cast and made everyone feel safe during emotionally challenging scenes. Knowing someone was dedicated to their well-being allowed the actors to fully commit to their performances. Efron is a strong advocate for these developing standards in Hollywood.

Jeremy Allen White

Jeremy Allen White, known for roles in shows like ‘Shameless’ and films like ‘The Iron Claw,’ has observed significant changes in the entertainment industry. He strongly believes in having dedicated coordinators on set to protect actors from feeling pressured. White feels these professionals help create a necessary boundary, and that better safety measures ultimately allow actors to have longer, healthier careers. He’s a vocal supporter of making these coordinator positions standard on all film and television sets.

Harris Dickinson

Harris Dickinson collaborated with intimacy coordinators on the films ‘Triangle of Sadness’ and ‘Babygirl’. He explained that working with them was vital for managing the balance of power during intimate scenes. Dickinson felt the coordinators helped him understand how consent should be expressed and performed, giving him the confidence to act without reservation. He considers the role of an intimacy coordinator essential, especially when portraying complicated characters.

Josh O’Connor

Josh O’Connor praised the intimacy team on ‘Challengers’ for helping create the film’s strong tension. He explained that the scenes were carefully rehearsed, almost like a choreographed dance. This preparation, and the safety it provided, allowed him and his fellow actors to experiment and be spontaneous. O’Connor specifically appreciated how the intimacy coordinator made the complex three-way relationship feel natural and comfortable, and he sees the coordinator as an essential part of the creative team.

Mike Faist

Mike Faist praised the careful planning that went into the intimate scenes in ‘Challengers,’ echoing his co-star’s positive comments. He explained that the detailed choreography from the intimacy coordinator helped him feel comfortable and at ease. Faist felt the professional approach fostered strong chemistry between the actors and believes these safety measures should become standard practice in the film industry.

Nicholas Galitzine

Nicholas Galitzine is a strong advocate for having intimacy coordinators on set, especially during projects like ‘Mary & George’. He explained that a coordinator helped him understand and manage the sensitive dynamics and emotional exposure required for his role. This support allowed him to concentrate on the historical details of the show. Galitzine stresses that the purpose of an intimacy coordinator is to empower actors, not restrict them, and he credits their guidance with helping him confidently perform challenging scenes.

Taylor Zakhar Perez

Taylor Zakhar Perez, who starred in ‘Red, White & Royal Blue’, emphasized the importance of rehearsals in developing a comfortable working relationship with his co-star. He was grateful that all physical contact was carefully planned and discussed beforehand, allowing them to create a believable romantic story while respecting everyone’s boundaries. Perez believes this kind of careful planning should be standard practice in all romantic films.

Tom Hiddleston

Tom Hiddleston commended the intimacy coordinator on ‘The Essex Serpent’ for their meticulous approach, describing the way intimate scenes were handled as similar to carefully choreographed dance. He appreciated that the coordinator created a secure and communicative environment, and that the structured process actually allowed the actors more freedom and creativity within the scenes. Hiddleston strongly supports having professional guidance on set.

Alexander Skarsgård

Alexander Skarsgard, known for demanding roles in films like ‘The Northman’, is a strong advocate for on-set safety coordinators. He feels they create a safer environment that actually allows actors to deliver more authentic and intense performances. He values having a dedicated professional looking out for the cast’s health and safety, and believes coordinators are key to balancing realistic, chaotic scenes with the well-being of everyone involved. Skarsgard considers these roles vital for making extreme or intense films.

Daveed Diggs

Daveed Diggs defended the use of intimacy coordinators after some industry professionals questioned their value. He explained that safety measures actually enhance, rather than hinder, creative work. Diggs emphasized that coordinators protect performers from exploitation and that a respectful work environment is essential for producing quality art. He remains a strong advocate for safer and more secure workplaces.

Sam Reid

Sam Reid praised the intimacy coordination on ‘Interview with the Vampire,’ emphasizing its importance in portraying the complicated connection between the main characters. He explained that the coordinator’s guidance allowed the cast to safely explore challenging and unhealthy relationship patterns, ultimately enhancing the authenticity of their performances. Reid feels this type of professional support is crucial for productions dealing with intense romantic themes.

Jacob Anderson

Jacob Anderson shared similar positive feedback about the intimacy coordinator on ‘Interview with the Vampire’. He explained that the coordinator made him feel safe and secure while filming physically challenging scenes. Anderson valued the clear communication and how the coordinator ensured everyone involved felt comfortable and gave consent. This allowed him to fully focus on his performance and become his character without any concerns. Anderson firmly believes that intimacy coordinators are essential on set.

Liam Cunningham

Liam Cunningham, who starred in ‘Game of Thrones,’ has spoken positively about the growing use of intimacy coordinators on set. He acknowledged that filming intimate scenes used to be challenging and disorganized, and believes these new roles are vital for protecting actors, especially younger ones, from potential exploitation. He feels the change represents a welcome and important improvement in the industry, creating a more professional and safer working environment.

Nikolaj Coster-Waldau

Nikolaj Coster-Waldau has discussed the challenges of filming intimate scenes on ‘Game of Thrones,’ noting the absence of an intimacy coordinator at the time. He expressed a wish that the role had existed during his involvement with the show, believing it would have relieved pressure on the actresses. Coster-Waldau supports the growing use of intimacy coordinators, seeing them as essential for protecting actors on set and representing positive progress for the industry.

Iwan Rheon

As a critic, I’ve spoken to many actors about their experiences, and I was particularly struck by Iwan Rheon’s recent comments about filming those intense assault scenes on ‘Game of Thrones.’ He frankly called it the worst experience of his career, and it’s clear it deeply affected him. He’s become a real champion for intimacy coordinators ever since, and rightfully so. He explained that having a professional on set to help navigate such traumatic material would have made all the difference. Honestly, he’s spot on – no actor should be left to handle scenes like that alone. He’s a strong voice for making these safety measures standard practice across the board, and I wholeheartedly agree.

Kit Harington

Kit Harington remembers a time when actors didn’t receive much support, and he welcomes the changes happening now. He feels intimacy coordinators are crucial for protecting the mental health of everyone on set. Harington points out that the industry is finally focusing on the well-being of its workers, and having coordinators helps create a more professional and comfortable work environment. He hopes these safety improvements continue.

Ben Aldridge

Ben Aldridge collaborated with an intimacy coordinator on the films ‘Knock at the Cabin’ and ‘Spoiler Alert,’ finding the experience freeing and enabling him to deliver a more genuine performance. He particularly valued the in-depth conversations about consent and personal boundaries, and feels the coordinator helped him create work he’s truly proud of. Aldridge views having an intimacy coordinator as a valuable asset for actors.

Jim Parsons

As a critic, I was really struck by how genuine the romantic scenes in ‘Spoiler Alert’ felt, and a lot of that credit goes to the intimacy coordinator. Jim Parsons shared that working with them actually took the pressure off, letting him and his co-star focus entirely on the emotional connection. He feels this kind of support is essential – not just for the actors’ comfort, but for telling truly honest and believable love stories on screen. He’s a real advocate for having intimacy coordinators on set, because that peace of mind is invaluable.

Justin Hartley

Justin Hartley always includes an intimacy coordinator on his shows, like ‘Tracker,’ because he believes it creates a respectful and safe work environment. He feels it’s especially important for leading actors to prioritize safety for the entire cast and crew, and he now considers an intimacy coordinator a necessary part of any professional film or television set. Hartley is dedicated to upholding these high safety standards.

Chase Stokes

Chase Stokes, star of ‘Outer Banks’, highlighted how valuable the show’s intimacy coordinator was. He explained that this professional helped the cast handle romantic and friendly relationships on screen, which in turn kept everyone comfortable with each other off camera. Stokes feels the coordinator’s role is crucial for maintaining clear boundaries and protecting the well-being of the young cast members.

Leo Woodall

Leo Woodall collaborated with intimacy coordinators on both ‘The White Lotus’ and ‘One Day’. He found their guidance essential when filming difficult or emotionally exposed scenes. Woodall particularly valued how they carefully planned out every physical movement, which helped him feel confident in his performance. He now considers working with a coordinator a regular and important part of how he prepares for roles.

Austin Butler

Austin Butler supports the use of intimacy coordinators on film and television sets, believing they create a safe space for actors. He feels their professional guidance helps actors fully embody their characters, and emphasizes that feeling safe is essential for good performance. Butler values the clear boundaries and organized approach intimacy coordinators bring to the set and hopes they continue to be included in productions.

Share your thoughts on how these changes are improving the film industry in the comments.

2026-01-28 01:51