Cynthia Erivo has come to the defence of on-set intimacy coordinators, advocating for the importance of their job. As the film and television industry continues to evolve and place a stronger emphasis on safety, consent, and actor well-being on set, the role of behind-the-scenes professionals has become a major talking point.

While some legacy figures have occasionally questioned the necessity of modern protocols, major stars are stepping up to champion the people keeping performers safe during vulnerable scenes. Leading that charge, acclaimed actor and singer Cynthia Erivo is speaking out to give credit where it is due, offering a passionate defense of the crucial yet frequently misunderstood professionals shaping today's sets.

Discussing her upcoming project, Prima Facie, during a screen talk at the London Film Festival, Cynthia Erivo opened up about the vital role intimacy coordinators play on set. She emphasized that these professionals frequently do not receive the recognition they deserve, per Variety.

“I think not enough credit is given to intimacy coordinators and they’re often given a hard time for the work they have to do on a set. But the work that they do is incredibly important,” Erivo said.

Erivo pointed out that these coordinators' responsibilities extend far beyond simply arranging intimate scenes. She explained that their expertise is equally essential for navigating grueling, emotionally harrowing material, ensuring that performers have the necessary guidance to safely return to themselves after filming intense sequences, as reported by Variety.

Marking her first major film role following her appearance in Wicked: For Good, Erivo stars in Prima Facie as Tessa Ensler, a high-flying defense lawyer whose life is upended when she is s******* a******** by a colleague and becomes the central figure in a high-stakes trial.

Adapted from Suzie Miller’s celebrated stage play, the feature film recently made its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival ahead of its UK debut at the London event.

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While talking about the film, Erivo, who is really eyeing to become MCU’s Storm, also explained what compelled her to get involved in the project. 

Reflecting on her decision to join the project - which also marks a producing credit for her - Cynthia Erivo shared that she knew immediately she wanted to be involved, driven by an instinct that the story carried a profound importance. The actor acknowledged that bringing the intense legal drama to life was a grueling process, particularly when shooting the harrowing a****** sequence.

To navigate such sensitive material, the production relied heavily on intimacy coordinator Lizzy Talbot. Erivo credited Talbot with establishing a secure environment on set, helping her figure out how to portray a psychological state of dissociation - being present yet mentally checked out to maintain emotional safety - while establishing a clear method for returning to ground afterwards.

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Do you agree with Cynthia Erivo’s stance on intimacy coordinators? Do let us know in the comments.