Actors Demand Action Over 'Disgusting' Video Game Sex Scenes
Performers in the video game industry have expressed distress over being asked to act in explicit scenes, including sexual assault, without prior notice. This lack of transparency often leaves actors feeling uncomfortable and pressured during shoots. The performers' union, Equity, is advocating for better practices, including advance script distribution and the use of intimacy coordinators.
Jessica Jefferies, a casting director, shared her experience of being unexpectedly asked to perform a graphic scene, highlighting the need for actors to be informed about the nature of their roles. Many performers support Equity's guidelines, which aim to align the gaming industry with better practices seen in film and television.
The guidelines also address issues like the overuse of NDAs and the need for safety during performance capture. While some games, like Baldur's Gate 3, are making strides in handling explicit content responsibly, the industry still faces challenges regarding the treatment of performers.