After a period marked by the actors’ strike in Hollywoodthe entertainment world is preparing for a significant change in the representation of intimate and sexual scenes on screen.
This historic strike, led by professionals in the entertainment industry, raised debates on a range of issues, including consent, safety on set and authentic representation, promoting a deep reflection on the way these scenes are created and presented to the public.
Hollywood sets new rules for intimate scenes
Image: Istoé Dinheiro/Reproduction
SAG-AFTRA, representing actors, has succeeded in formally securing sex scene intimacy coordinators in its contract with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, allowing actors to feel comfortable and set boundaries.
This inclusion, set to begin in December, is a landmark shift in the industry, offering protection and transparency to prevent retaliation and ensure harassment can be reported.
This achievement is celebrated by Caitlin Dulany, a member of the negotiation committee who, after personal experiences with sexual misconduct, sees intimacy coordinators as a victory for the health of the set.
The 128-page contract also promotes transparency, includes anti-harassment measures and provides advance warnings about nudity or sex scenes in auditions.
Alicia Rodis, privacy coordinator and bargaining committee advisor, emphasizes the lasting cultural shift that including coordinators represents, as well as the ongoing need to integrate them as union members to ensure benefits and protections.
While celebrating the achievements of the strike, Fran Drescher, president of the Actors Guild, emphasizes the need for more qualified coordinators and their full integration into the Syndicate.
Chantal Cousineau, also a privacy coordinator, emphasizes the importance of contractual terms to ensure producers hire privacy coordinators.
Meanwhile, the fight continues for greater contractual clarity in protecting underage and disabled artists, as well as holding studios accountable.
