There is no time when Hollywood is not caught in a heated debate, even though the subjects may vary from time to time. As cinephiles, actors, directors, and every other professional who makes Tinseltown revel in its innovations and strides toward inclusivity, fault lines emerge. The latest flash point is the role of intimacy coordinator on set. Following the latest Mikey Madison controversy, Virgin River showrunner Patrick Sean Smith shed light on his show stars’ decision to decline such services for the sixth installment.

While Madison’s choice sparked backlash, Smith’s remarks offer a nuanced perspective. 

In a recent conversation with Variety, Patrick Sean Smith was asked whether an intimacy coordinator was present on set since the sixth installment of Virgin River, released on December 19, features quite a few sensitive scenes. Speaking of a specific steamy scene starring Brady and Brie, played by Ben Hollingsworth and Zibby Allen, on a pool table, Smith informed on behalf of the team that they “always offer.” But in this case, the actors declined it, and subsequently “a lot of consideration went into it.”

Smith reportedly works with RAINN and even met with them personally to get their desired ask. “We knew we wanted it to be physical, somewhat sensual, and in some ways, aggressive,” he reflected about the part that got him the most “nervous.” The showrunner’s exploration came with a realization that assault and physical violence are often less about aggression than a deliberate exercise of power and subjugation. Additionally, Smith gave the actors their due in doing their respective research and bringing awareness and coordination.

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Although Patrick Sean Smith’s admission about intimacy coordinators on set reflects on the greener side of such reception, Mikey Madison’s confession was not so easily spared.

In an interview with Pamela Anderson for Variety, Mikey Madison recently revealed about opting out of working with an intimacy coordinator in Anora despite being offered the support. Madison explained she and the team were able to “streamline” the filming and “shoot it super quickly” because, at some point, she was completely immersed in her character. Madison believes it was a “choice” she made to embrace the character with her own self without the meddling of a professional. 

While Madison highlighted the “positive” aura of the scenes, the online uproar only screamed negativity. Following the backlash, an adult consultant attached to the project also weighed in, citing the star’s “autonomy” before vouching for the standardized need for intimacy coordinators on set. Other coordinators parallelly stressed these requirements beyond the proximity of lead actors to ensure safety for all. Although Patrick Sean Smith’s admissions did not exactly follow a similar course to Madison’s, it remains to be seen how it unfolds in time to come.

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What do you think of Patrick Sean Smith's revelation of Virgin Rivers' stars' rejection of intimacy coordinators? Let us know in the comments below!