In this episode of the Beyond Broadcast podcast proudly sponsored by WIZZ FX, host Jamie Larson speaks with the UK’s leading intimacy coordinator and the Founder of Intimacy On Set Ltd, Ita O'Brien.

Ita has worked on numerous high-profile productions, including Normal People, I May Destroy You , Sex Education, It’s A Sin, We Live in Time, and The Roses.

Her pioneering work in intimacy coordination for film, TV, and theatre, reflects the importance of consent, safety, and emotional well-being in intimate scenes. We discussed her journey from conservative Irish roots to transforming industry standards, the choreography of intimacy, mental health support on set, and broader conversations about human connection and sexuality.

Additionally we take a more thorough look at her book Intimacy which is due for paperback release in the UK on June 4th 2026 and is out now in the US.

We explore topic such as:

• Development of intimacy onset guidelines
• The role of consent and boundaries in acting
• Supporting actor well-being during intimate scenes
• Cultural shifts in discussing sexuality and intimacy

Episode Highlights

• 04:50 - The Importance of Emotional Safety in Performance
• 28:06 - How Intimacy Coordination Changed the Atmosphere on Productions
• 49:15 - Establishing the Rhythm of Intimacy
• 55:18 - Exploring Darker Themes in Storytelling
• 01:12:58 -Teaching Intimacy and Consent to Youth

Links & Resources

• Follow her on Linkedin - Link
• Follow her on Instagram - @IntimacyonSet or @ItaOB
• Read & Purchase Ita O Brien’s book ‘Intimacy’ - Link
• The Good Sex Project (NZ Podcast) Link
• The Price of Sex (NZ Web Series) Link
• Brainwashed: Sex-Camera-Power (Documentary) Link

• Films / Series Referenced:

• Sex Education (2019-2023) - Link
  • Season 1 - Episode 5
  • Season 2 - Episode 8

• I May Destroy You (2020) - Link

• Lady Chatterley's Lover (2022) - Link
• We Live In Time (2024) - Link

Connect With Us

• Learn more about the great work from WIZZFX - https://www.wizzfx.com/
• Follow us on Instagram: @beyondbroadcastpod
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