How ‘Euphoria’ Ensures Actor Safety During Intimate 18+ Scenes

The incorporation of intimacy coordinators on contemporary TV sets has become essential for managing sensitive or 18+ scenes, with the HBO series Euphoria being a prominent example of this practice.

This subject was explored on In the Envelope: The Actor’s Podcast, hosted by senior editor Vinnie Mancuso. The episode featured Mam Smith, an intimacy coordinator with experience on several major projects, including Euphoria, Westworld, Landman, and Lioness. She has collaborated with Zendaya on various productions, assisting in scenes that necessitate close physical interactions between actors.

Smith shared that when she transitioned into intimacy coordination from a stunt background, many in the industry were unfamiliar with her role. She recounted, “It was 2019, and nobody knew what [intimacy coordination] was. They thought I was like HR and they were all in trouble. You know, the word police, the thought police, the action police. I was like, no, I’m here to facilitate. I’m here to help. I’m here to create communication.”

She noted how the perception of her role has evolved, becoming more accepted on sets. Rather than stifling creativity, she emphasized that it enables actors to feel more at ease and focused during challenging scenes.

One key technique she employs is known as body mapping. This involves actors establishing clear physical boundaries prior to filming. Smith explained, “We do what we call body mapping. You talk to an actress or an actor [and ask], ‘Where is safe to touch and where isn’t?’ You go through it. ‘OK, not my bum. I don’t want you to touch my side fat. This will pull me out of the scene. This is good. My ears are sensitive.’”

Once these boundaries are set, actors can perform with greater freedom, as they are aware of what is permissible. According to her, this approach alleviates stress and confusion during filming, particularly in emotionally or physically demanding scenes.

Smith also spoke about her ongoing collaboration with Zendaya, highlighting that trust is a crucial element of the process. She remarked, “Like any relationship dynamic, the more you can build trust and create a shorthand, [the easier it gets]. She’ll see me and know, ‘OK, Mam’s got this.’ She knows what I’m capable of. She knows I have her back. She knows I’m going to protect her.”

Smith added that actors like Zendaya often bear significant responsibilities on set, especially in high-profile projects, making the presence of someone dedicated to safety and communication vital.

According to Smith, intimacy coordination is not about restricting performance but rather about establishing a safe framework so actors can concentrate on their roles without the anxiety of crossing personal boundaries.

Her insights on the podcast underscore how productions like Euphoria approach 18+ scenes with more structure and care than in the past. Instead of leaving actors to navigate these moments alone, trained professionals are now employed to oversee planning, communication, and choreography.

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