Olivia Cooke: Women Called ‘Difficult’ for Speaking Up on Intimate Scenes

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British actress Olivia Cooke, famed for her portrayal of Alicent Hightower in HBO’s ‘House of the Dragon’, has publicly expressed concerns regarding the handling of women during intimacy-focused filming sequences on set.

In an interview with The i Paper, she noted that actresses are frequently branded as “difficult” or “hard-to-work-with” when they express discomfort during the filming of intimate scenes.

As a passionate cinephile, I’m thrilled to announce the arrival of the new Amazon Prime Video series, “The Girlfriend”. What makes this production particularly special is the evolution our industry has witnessed in recent times. This transformation can be attributed to the integral role intimacy coordinators now play on set, ensuring a more sensitive and respectful portrayal of intimate scenes.

She remarked, “It’s astonishing to consider how they managed to depict those scenes accurately without the presence of the people we know today.

Intimacy coordinators serve as a means for actresses, especially those new to the industry, to express their limits clearly during intimate scenes. As Cooke explained, these professionals become a voice for actresses who might be hesitant about filming requests and may not have the words to articulate their discomfort.

Cooke further stated that with intimacy coordinators, intimate scenes can be filmed in a safe and respectful manner, ensuring that actors do not feel exposed or uncomfortable.

She pointed out that expressing affection and emotion authentically is essential to portray the human condition genuinely. Moreover, she mentioned that performers can participate in such emotional scenes without losing a sense of self or personal integrity.

On September 10, the series “The Girlfriend” unfolds the tale of Laura (portrayed by Robin Wright), a woman who appears to have an idyllic life, complete with a flourishing career, a doting spouse, and her son Daniel. However, the status quo is shaken when Daniel introduces his girlfriend Cherry, played by Cooke, into their household, causing unforeseen ripples in their once tranquil family environment.

Cooke’s remarks underscore a persistent challenge in the film industry. They demonstrate that although advancements have occurred, women continue to encounter criticism when establishing boundaries during intimate encounters. Moreover, her viewpoint emphasizes the crucial role of intimacy coordinators in fostering a safer and more considerate work atmosphere.

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2025-09-10 11:44