Mikey Madison reveals she skipped intimacy coordinator for Anora’s intimate scenes

Mikey Madison discusses her decision to forego an intimacy coordinator for Anora.

Mikey Madison, acclaimed for her performance in Anora, is a leading contender for the Best Actress Oscar this year. The film, directed by Sean Baker, has earned widespread praise for its authenticity and emotionally charged narrative. Madison’s role required several intimate scenes, sparking discussions about her approach to filming such moments.

In an interview with Pamela Anderson for Variety, Madison revealed that she chose not to work with an intimacy coordinator during production. “The filmmakers offered me, if I wanted, an intimacy coordinator,” Madison said. However, she and her co-star Mark Eydelshteyn mutually decided to keep the setup “small.” Intimacy coordinators, as defined by SAG-AFTRA, ensure safety and comfort for actors and crew during intimate scenes. Madison explained her trust in Baker’s reputation for authenticity influenced her decision, saying, “I had seen Sean’s films and know his dedication to authenticity. I was ready for it.”

The decision has drawn mixed reactions. While some support Madison’s professional approach, others question the absence of an intimacy coordinator, citing its importance for safeguarding actors. A commenter noted that intimacy coordinators are valuable for ensuring both cast and crew feel secure.

Madison emphasized her professional outlook, stating, “As an actress, I approached it as a job.” Despite the debate, her portrayal in Anora continues to receive critical acclaim, with many praising it as one of the year’s standout performances.

While the discussion about her choice continues, Madison’s work in Anora cements her reputation as a powerful and fearless performer, positioning her as a frontrunner this awards season.