As a gamer who’s been navigating through the digital world for decades, I can’t help but draw parallels between my virtual adventures and the real-life events unfolding in Hollywood. The introduction of intimacy coordinators into the union feels like a much-needed quest item in our ongoing game of life – one that ensures safety, consent, and professionalism in intimate scenes.
Two years following SAG-AFTRA‘s announcement about incorporating intimacy coordinators into their union, the labor organization has now initiated the first phase of making this aspiration a tangible reality.
On Wednesday, the performers’ union announced that it had submitted a request for a union vote with the National Labor Relations Board. SAG-AFTRA aims to negotiate on behalf of intimacy coordinators who work for production companies that are members of the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (or the leading studios and streaming platforms in the entertainment industry).
The action comes following the union’s long-term efforts to control the rapidly growing field, which emerged post the #MeToo movement. Intimacy coordinators are tasked with planning intimate and nude scenes on film sets, as well as fostering conversations between actors and creators regarding this type of work.
Performing scenes that involve nudity or close contact can be one of the most exposed roles for an actor. Intimacy coordinators not only guide actors through these situations, but they establish a protective environment, ensuring consent and security at all times. SAG-AFTRA president Fran Drescher stated this in a statement, emphasizing that now it’s time for everyone to support intimacy coordinators as they have supported us on set.
The Hollywood Reporter has reached out to the AMPTP for comment.
Over the past few years, following HBO’s lead in requiring intimacy coordinators on set, SAG-AFTRA has introduced numerous efforts to elevate the industry. In 2020, they published guidelines and procedures for intimacy coordinators, and in 2022, they accredited several training programs to further professionalize this field.
As an ardent supporter, I’m excited to share that the SAG-AFTRA organizing committee for intimacy coordinators is advocating for the same safeguards enjoyed by other unionized professions in the entertainment industry. In their own words, they assert that joining SAG-AFTRA will secure the longevity of our cherished profession. Currently, we’re laboring without any protective measures or standardized compensation packages. We take on this work out of passion, but to foster a robust career path, it requires more than just love for the craft.
More to come.
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2024-09-25 23:24