The Importance of Intimacy Coordinators in Filming Intimate Scenes: Ewan McGregor Shares His Perspective
The world of Hollywood continues to evolve, and with it comes the significance of various roles that ensure a smooth filming process. One such role is that of an intimacy coordinator, whose responsibility is to support actors during intimate scenes on set. Renowned actor Ewan McGregor, who stars in the new drama series “A Gentleman in Moscow” alongside his wife Mary Elizabeth Winstead, recently shared his thoughts on this topic with UK magazine Radio Times.
McGregor expressed that having an intimacy coordinator is still necessary, even when filming intimate scenes with one’s spouse. He likened it to having a choreographer for dance scenes. “It’s an important part of the work now,” McGregor stated, emphasizing that it benefits not only the actors but also the crew members who may be present during these scenes.
The couple tied the knot in 2022 and share a son, Laurie, born the previous year. McGregor, who has four daughters from his previous marriage to production designer Eve Mavrakis, believes that intimacy coordinators are a valuable addition to the film industry. He shared an insightful example regarding his 22-year-old daughter Esther, suggesting that an actor of her age might feel pressured to comply with a director’s requests for intimate scenes to advance their career. McGregor believes that having an intimacy coordinator allows actors like his daughter to make informed decisions and have someone to consult without the fear of career repercussions.
McGregor plays Count Alexander Rostov in the new Paramount+ series “A Gentleman in Moscow,” and Winstead portrays actress Anna Urbanova. The series, scheduled for release on March 29, follows a Russian aristocrat who is placed under house arrest while the Bolshevik Revolution unfolds before him.
In today’s film industry, intimacy coordinators play a vital role in creating a safe and comfortable environment for actors during intimate scenes. Their presence ensures that all parties involved feel confident and secure throughout the entire filming process. With actors like Ewan McGregor advocating for their importance, the role of intimacy coordinators continues to gain recognition and acceptance in Hollywood.