Olivia Colman, the beloved star of The Crown and an Oscar winner, recently opened up about her discomfort with filming intimate scenes. During a candid chat on the Good Hang with Amy Poehler podcast, the 51-year-old actress revealed that she feels “unfaithful” when acting in sex scenes. With a 25-year career in film and TV, Colman knows what she loves and what she wants to avoid on screen. Her honest words shine a light on the challenges actors face with intimate roles and the personal toll it can take, even with professional safeguards in place. This article dives into her thoughts, her marriage, and the role of intimacy coordinators in Hollywood.
Why Colman Feels Uncomfortable with Intimate Scenes
Colman didn’t hesitate when asked about her biggest fear in acting. She told Amy Poehler she wants to steer clear of roles that involve showing skin or pretending to be intimate with someone.
- Feeling Unfaithful: Colman, married to Ed Sinclair since 2001, said acting in sex scenes feels like betraying her husband. “I don’t like it. I feel like I’m being unfaithful,” she shared, half-joking but clearly serious.
- Discomfort with Strangers: Even with precautions like wearing jeans or using a cushion as a barrier, Colman finds it awkward. “I don’t want to do that with someone I don’t know,” she added.
Her honesty struck a chord with Poehler, who praised actors who handle these scenes well. Colman agreed, giving props to intimacy coordinators who make such moments safer and more comfortable.
The Role of Intimacy Coordinators
Hollywood has changed a lot in recent years, especially after the #MeToo movement. Intimacy coordinators now help actors navigate sensitive scenes. Colman singled out Ita O’Brien, a pioneer in this field, for her helpful tips.
- Ita O’Brien’s Advice: O’Brien, who created the Intimacy On Set Guidelines, told Colman to “imagine the sun is hitting your face” during tough scenes. This mental trick helps actors stay grounded.
- Making Scenes Safer: Coordinators ensure clear boundaries, consent, and comfort. They choreograph movements and check in with actors, which Colman appreciates.
These professionals have become vital in helping stars like Colman feel supported, even if she’d rather skip these scenes altogether.
Colman’s Happy Marriage to Ed Sinclair
Beyond her work, Colman shared a glimpse into her personal life. She’s been married to Ed Sinclair for over two decades, and their bond is full of love and laughter.
- Humor at Home: Colman said her husband is her biggest source of joy. “The thing that makes me laugh more than anything… is watching my husband fall over or hit his head by accident,” she told Poehler.
- Long-Lasting Love: In an August interview with The Guardian, Colman gushed, “I’m quite in love.” Even her The Roses co-star Benedict Cumberbatch chimed in, noting how happy she is with Sinclair.
- Realistic Romance: Colman admitted that after 30 years, they sometimes annoy each other. “It’s not bad to be a bit annoyed with each other,” she said, showing a grounded view of marriage.
Her stories paint a picture of a strong partnership that helps her navigate the pressures of fame.
How Her Co-Star Benedict Cumberbatch Played a Role
The podcast question about her fears came from Benedict Cumberbatch, her co-star in the upcoming movie The Roses. He passed it to Poehler, sparking the heartfelt chat.
- Teamwork on Set: Colman and Cumberbatch’s friendship shone through in their Guardian interview. He teased her about Sinclair, showing their easy rapport.
- Supportive Co-Star: Cumberbatch’s question gave Colman a chance to share her truth, highlighting how actors often lean on each other for support.
Their chemistry will likely make The Roses, a comedy-drama about a divorcing couple, a must-watch when it hits screens.
Why This Matters in Hollywood Today
Colman’s words come at a time when actors are speaking out about their comfort zones. The industry is listening more to stars’ needs, especially on sensitive topics like intimacy.
- Changing Norms: More actors, like Colman, are pushing back on roles that feel too personal. This shift shows growing respect for boundaries.
- Empowering Voices: By sharing her unease, Colman joins stars like Keira Knightley and Rachel Zegler, who’ve also questioned intimate scenes.
- Fan Support: On platforms like X, fans praise Colman’s honesty. Many say her openness makes her even more relatable as a star.
Her stance could inspire younger actors to set their own limits and demand better working conditions.
What’s Next for Olivia Colman
Colman’s career is soaring, with roles in The Favourite, The Crown, and now The Roses. But her podcast chat shows she’s thinking hard about the roles she takes.
- Picking Projects Wisely: She may lean toward roles that skip intimate scenes, focusing on her strengths in drama and comedy.
- A Relatable Star: Fans love Colman for her talent and down-to-earth vibe. Her marriage stories and acting fears only add to that charm.
As Hollywood keeps evolving, Colman’s voice adds to the call for respect and authenticity. Whether she’s joking about her husband’s clumsiness or praising intimacy coordinators, she keeps it real. Her fans can’t wait to see what she does next—on her terms.
