Actor Florence Pugh has opened up about her experiences working with intimacy coordinators, acknowledging both positive and negative aspects of the evolving profession. Speaking on The Louis Theroux Podcast released this week, Pugh described how intimacy coordination — a role created in response to Hollywood’s post-#MeToo shift — is still “a job that’s figuring itself out.”
The Oscar-nominated Little Women and Dune star reflected on how the profession has shaped her on-set experiences and shared candid thoughts on how it continues to develop across the film industry.
What Florence Pugh Said
During her conversation with Louis Theroux, Florence Pugh revealed that her views on intimacy coordination have evolved over time. She recalled filming intimate scenes early in her career before the role even existed and said she has since worked with both “fantastic” and “awkward” coordinators.
“It’s not to get in the way or to make things more awkward,” Pugh explained. “It’s to make sure that everyone is happy with what they’re creating and that it has meaning to them.”
Pugh added that while some coordinators have enhanced her creative process, others made the environment “so weird and so awkward.” She believes the field is “still figuring itself out” as it adapts to different types of productions and actors.
Industry Context & Reactions
The use of intimacy coordinators gained prominence in Hollywood after the #MeToo movement in 2017. The role ensures clear communication, consent, and safety during scenes involving physical intimacy. Several actors, including Jennifer Lawrence and Mikey Madison, have recently shared differing opinions about working with such professionals.
Pugh emphasized that the best coordinators help actors explore character depth — not just the physical aspects of a scene. “Understanding the dance of intimacy instead of just shooting a sex scene” is how she described a successful collaboration.
Impact on Film Industry
Pugh’s comments highlight an ongoing conversation in Hollywood about the evolving balance between artistic freedom and safety. Her remarks may encourage other actors and directors to reflect on best practices for ensuring trust and respect on set.
Film experts note that positive experiences with coordinators often lead to more authentic performances and clearer communication between cast and crew. As more productions standardize the role, it could redefine the creative process for intimate storytelling.
What’s Next for Florence Pugh
Florence Pugh is set to appear next in Dune: Part Three as Princess Irulan and in Avengers: Doomsday as Yelena Belova. She will also headline Netflix’s East of Eden, a modern reimagining of the John Steinbeck classic.
Her evolving stance on intimacy coordination may influence her future collaborations, especially in projects demanding emotional and physical complexity.
Sources
Deadline Hollywood
The Louis Theroux Podcast
Variety Archives
IMDb – Florence Pugh Filmography
