What does an Intimacy Coordinator do?

An Intimacy Coordinator (IC) creates a safe and professional environment for cast and crew during scenes involving intimacy, nudity, simulated sex, or other intimate content.

Their role involves facilitating conversations around the creative aspects, boundaries and comfort levels, while also monitoring on-set practices to ensure compliance with industry standards and union guidelines. 

The IC advocates for LGBTQIA+ and diverse cast members, ensuring their inclusion and well-being. 

They collaborate with costume and makeup departments to provide appropriate garments and prosthetics.

ICs can also offer movement coaching and choreography to enhance the authenticity of intimate scenes.

An Intimacy Coordinator is there to support everyone to do their best work, from producers and directors to performers and crew members.

Why hire an Intimacy Coordinator?

A safe and respectful work environment is essential for fostering wellbeing, creativity, and productivity, while ensuring legal compliance and preventing harassment.  In the creative industry, power imbalances can make it difficult for performers and crew to express discomfort, especially when directors hold significant influence.

This is where an Intimacy Coordinator plays a crucial role, working with the director to understand their vision, and with the actors to establish their boundaries. This facilitates a constructive dialogue, upholding both artistic integrity and the performers’ comfort.  

By including an Intimacy Coordinator in the process, everyone on set can feel empowered to voice their boundaries and be reassured that they will be respected. ICs also help prevent harassment by addressing any inappropriate behavior, especially during intimate scenes, creating a safer and more professional environment at all stages of production.