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'It’s the Least Sexy Thing in the World': Josh O'Connor Reveals 'Strange' Experience Filming Racy Challengers Scene with Zendaya
In a candid interview, Josh O'Connor opens up about the awkward and unromantic reality of filming love scenes with Zendaya in the film Challengers.
In his recent interview for Vanity Fair, British actor Josh O'Connor shared surprising insights into the unglamorous side of filming intimate scenes in Hollywood. Known for his work in The Crown and now the sports drama Challengers, O'Connor describes his experience filming with Zendaya as anything but romantic. Despite the steamy appearance on screen, the process, he reveals, is clinical and highly choreographed.
O'Connor, 34, who stars as the ex-boyfriend of Zendaya’s character in Challengers, explained that filming intimate scenes can be incredibly strange and uncomfortable. Speaking candidly, he called these moments “the least sexy thing in the world,” likening them to action or stunt sequences. “A sex scene is a very strange thing," he explained. "It’s highly choreographed and rehearsed, much like a dance or fight sequence.” His comments highlight the reality that, behind the passionate moments viewers see on screen, the actors are focused on technical precision rather than romance.
The actor also discussed how these scenes require vulnerability. "Being vulnerable and intimate with another actor is more revealing and scarier,” he admitted. He noted that reaching such an emotional state often means uncovering parts of oneself that are usually hidden or protected, adding a psychological challenge to the physical discomfort. In the case of Challengers, this discomfort was amplified by the high-profile nature of the project and the intense public interest surrounding his co-stars Zendaya and Mike Faist.
For fans eager to know more about Challengers, the movie, directed by Luca Guadagnino, follows the intense dynamics between three tennis players—played by Zendaya, O'Connor, and Faist—who share complex relationships both on and off the court. Released on April 26, 2024, the film delves into the themes of ambition, rivalry, and emotional entanglements, all while set against the backdrop of professional tennis. The intensity of the characters’ relationships translates to the screen, but O'Connor’s interview reminds fans that such scenes are far from glamorous behind the scenes.
Josh O'Connor’s reflections serve as a reminder that what audiences see on screen is often a carefully crafted illusion. While intimate scenes may appear spontaneous and alluring, they require detailed choreography and personal vulnerability, transforming them into demanding and sometimes uncomfortable experiences for actors. As Challengerscontinues to captivate audiences, O'Connor's insights provide a fresh perspective on the artistry and effort behind Hollywood’s steamiest scenes.
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