Kiernan Shipka recently opened up about the role of intimacy coordination in executing a complex scene from Season 4, Episode 3 of HBO’s acclaimed series, Industry. This episode features a bold and audacious sex scene involving Shipka alongside co-stars Kit Harington and Marisa Abela. Shipka emphasized that the incorporation of an intimacy coordinator allowed for a safe and structured environment, enabling the actors to focus on their character dynamics without the distractions of staging such a sensitive scene.
In the episode, Yasmin, portrayed by Abela, and Henry, played by Harington, find themselves entangled in both personal and business matters while staying at a castle in Vienna. The storyline thickens with underlying tensions, including subtle antisemitism expressed by a supporting character, which Yasmin initially dismisses but later regrets. The dynamic took a turn when Yasmin, who has historically taken a submissive role, asserts her dominance by orchestrating the encounter between Hayley (Shipka) and Henry, showcasing a significant character evolution for Yasmin.
Shipka elaborated on the scene’s preparation, noting that the choreography was carefully planned to differentiate between the initial dialogue and the more intimate moments that followed. “We worked with the intimacy coordinator, and there was a lot of literal choreography that helped us map out the scene,” she explained. “This planning allowed us to focus on the characters’ intentions rather than worry about the physical aspects during the shoot.”
The atmosphere on set has been described as supportive and relaxed, with Shipka expressing gratitude towards her fellow cast members. “Everyone’s just so fun and chill on the show,” she remarked. This supportive environment, she believes, makes it easier to manage the more intense and vulnerable scenes.
As the season progresses, the relationship between Hayley and Yasmin continues to be intriguing. Shipka shared her insights on their chemistry, observing that Yasmin sees a reflection of herself in Hayley, which can lead to both positive and negative implications depending on the context. The complexities of their attraction add layers to the narrative, raising questions about the nature of their relationship dynamics.
Shipka, who has taken on many diverse roles throughout her career, finds Hayley to be a refreshing and challenging character. She expressed excitement about the new aspects of Hayley’s role that push her boundaries as an actress. “I want her arc to feel earned, and I want this character to feel like a human and make sense,” Shipka conveyed her passion for the character, showcasing her dedication to delivering a compelling performance.
With the richly woven narratives and character developments, Industry continues to provide a captivating viewing experience for its audience, airing Sundays at 9/8c on HBO.