Reclaiming Comfort: How Intimacy Coordinators are Transforming Hollywood's On-Screen Romance

Jane Fonda and Kate Winslet Advocate for a Safer Filming Environment: The Essential Role of Intimacy Coordinators in Hollywood's New Era

In recent conversations about the evolving landscape of Hollywood, iconic actress Jane Fonda has emerged as a vocal advocate for the importance of intimacy coordinators in film production. At the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, Fonda shared valuable insights on how the #MeToo movement has fundamentally changed the industry, especially regarding the treatment of actors in intimate scenes. At 87, the Oscar-winning star reflected on her own experiences, expressing her belief that having intimacy coordinators on set could have significantly improved her comfort level while filming such scenes earlier in her career.

Fonda lamented the lack of support in her early years when it came to filming intimate scenes. She recalled the training provided to actors for various aspects of a film but pointed out that no one ever prepared her for how to handle issues that might arise during intimate moments. “Every time you begin a movie, you have training,” she explained, adding, “But when it comes to sex scenes, that never happened.” Fonda poignantly noted the awkwardness of negotiating boundaries with co-stars, especially given the expectation to portray romantic entanglements without proper support. “You want me to act like I’m in love with a guy, but please don’t uncover my breast on the left side. You know, you don’t do that,” she stated candidly, illustrating the challenges many actors face on set.

Fonda's comments resonate within a larger dialogue about the need for empathy and understanding in Hollywood, particularly regarding actors' comfort during intimate scenes. This discourse is not limited to Fonda alone—numerous other celebrities have echoed the same sentiments about the absence of intimacy coordinators on previous projects. Actresses like Kate Winslet and Emma Thompson, as well as actors like Ewan McGregor, have openly discussed the positive impact that such coordinators would have had on their experiences in film.

Kate Winslet, renowned for her passionate scenes in films like "Titanic," emphasized how an intimacy coordinator could have changed her early working arrangements. In an interview with The New York Times, she remarked, “I would have benefited from an intimacy coordinator every single time I had to do a love scene or be partially naked or even a kissing scene.” Winslet revealed that having someone in her corner would have made her feel more at ease and empowered to voice her concerns when it came to on-set conditions. Reflecting on moments when she felt uncomfortable, Winslet described instances where she wished she could have spoken up about camera angles or the number of people present during intimate scenes. “When you’re young, you’re so afraid of pissing people off or coming across as rude or pathetic because you might need those things,” she explained, recalling how difficult it was to assert herself in those high-pressure environments.

The need for intimacy coordinators underscores the greater cultural shift that has occurred in Hollywood in the wake of the #MeToo movement. Actors are increasingly advocating for themselves and each other, recognizing the importance of creating a safe and respectful environment on set. With this rising awareness, the role of intimacy coordinators has become essential, bridging the gap between artistic expression and personal boundaries. These professionals help foster dialogue between actors, directors, and crew members, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and respected during potentially vulnerable moments.

By integrating intimacy coordinators into the filmmaking process, Hollywood can foster healthier working conditions for actors, irrespective of their experience level. Celebrities like Fonda and Winslet hope that their experiences will inspire younger generations of actors to prioritize their comfort and safety while still delivering compelling performances. The presence of intimacy coordinators not only streamlines the process of filming intimate scenes but also provides a framework for performers to communicate their needs and establish boundaries effectively.

As the industry continues to evolve, the conversations surrounding intimacy and respect on set will likely only grow in importance. By advocating for practices that prioritize the well-being of actors, Hollywood can strive for a more inclusive and supportive environment. This shift not only benefits the artists themselves but also improves the overall quality of storytelling, allowing for genuine, heartfelt portrayals that resonate with audiences without compromising the personal integrity of those involved.

In conclusion, the dialogue around the role of intimacy coordinators is a crucial aspect of Hollywood’s ongoing transformation in the wake of the #MeToo movement. By highlighting the challenges actors faced in previous decades, stars like Jane Fonda and Kate Winslet are paving the way for a future where performers can work without the weight of discomfort or pressure to compromise their boundaries. As the industry embraces this change, we can anticipate a landscape that values not just the art of cinema, but the well-being of the talents who bring these stories to life.