The sixth season of Netflix’s Virgin River is making waves for more than just its dramatic storylines. Recently, showrunner Patrick Sean Smith revealed that the show’s stars chose to decline the use of an intimacy coordinator for certain scenes. This decision reflects the deep trust within the cast and offers a glimpse into the collaborative environment behind the scenes.
Building a Foundation of Trust
Since its debut, Virgin River has been defined by its close-knit cast and emotionally resonant performances. Over the years, the actors have developed a strong sense of camaraderie, which Patrick Sean Smith credits as a key factor in their decision. “The cast has formed a bond that’s rare to see. They communicate openly and work together to ensure everyone feels comfortable,” Smith explained.
Mikey Madison, a newcomer to the show in Season 6, shared her perspective on this dynamic. “I’ve been on other sets where intimacy coordinators were invaluable, but here, the trust was palpable. Everyone’s professionalism and care made me feel secure from day one.”
Navigating Sensitive Scenes
For Season 6, the actors took a collaborative approach to choreographing intimate moments. Instead of relying on an intimacy coordinator, they worked directly with directors and each other to establish boundaries and ensure the scenes felt authentic.
“It was a collaborative process,” Smith noted. “The actors discussed their comfort levels in detail before filming and adjusted scenes as needed. This approach worked because of the mutual respect that’s been cultivated over the years.”
This unconventional choice allowed the cast to maintain creative control over their performances. It also reinforced the show’s emphasis on emotional depth and realism, which are central to its appeal.
Addressing Concerns
While the decision to forgo an intimacy coordinator has been met with curiosity, Patrick Sean Smith was quick to address potential concerns. “Safety and comfort are always our top priorities. If anyone felt uncomfortable at any point, we had systems in place to address it immediately,” he said.
Smith also emphasized that this decision was unique to Virgin River’s specific circumstances. “It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. We’re fortunate to have a cast that’s so in sync, but we remain open to bringing in additional resources if needed in the future.”
The Bigger Picture
The decision to decline an intimacy coordinator underscores the strong relationships among the Virgin River cast and crew. It also highlights the importance of trust and communication in creating a safe and respectful working environment.
As the series continues to evolve, fans can rest assured that the show’s commitment to authenticity extends beyond its storytelling. Whether through emotional performances or behind-the-scenes collaboration, Virgin River remains a testament to the power of connection—both on and off the screen.
