Caitriona Balfe Discusses Changes to Outlander's Sex Scenes with New Coordinator

The hit series "Outlander" is well-known for its steamy and passionate sex scenes between Claire and Jamie, played by Caitriona Balfe and Sam Heughan. With the recent seasons, fans have noticed some changes in how these scenes are filmed and presented. This shift is largely due to the inclusion of an intimacy coordinator, a decision made by the show's producers to ensure the comfort and safety of the actors involved.

The Need for Change

In an era influenced by the #MeToo movement, the addition of intimacy coordinators on film and TV sets has become increasingly common. Caitriona Balfe explained that when "Outlander" first started, the concept of an intimacy coordinator was virtually unheard of. “Those things just weren’t available,” she noted. The early seasons often required Balfe and Heughan to navigate these scenes independently, which sometimes led to discomfort and awkwardness​​​​.

The Role of the Intimacy Coordinator

The intimacy coordinator, Vanessa Coffey, has been instrumental in transforming how intimate scenes are approached on "Outlander." Coffey works closely with the cast and crew to choreograph these scenes in a manner similar to how fight scenes are planned. This structured approach not only ensures the scenes are realistic and compelling but also prioritizes the actors' comfort and consent​​.

Balancing Artistic Vision and Comfort

Balfe has praised Coffey’s ability to mediate between the actors and the directors, ensuring that everyone’s boundaries are respected while maintaining the show’s artistic vision. This role became especially crucial during the filming of season six, as Balfe was pregnant and found it particularly challenging to perform in such vulnerable scenes.

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