Kate Winslet reportedly ended up with “lots of bruises” after filming an X-rated scene with co-star Patrick Wilson in the 2006 film Little Children. The film follows an unhappy housewife who has an affair with a married neighbor, and although it wasn’t a box office hit, it earned critical praise and Oscar nods, including a Best Actress nomination for Winslet. The infamous scene was shot before the advent of intimacy coordinators, with both actors appearing nude behind modesty coverings.
During an appearance on The Hollywood Reporter’s It Happened in Hollywood podcast, Patrick Wilson recalled receiving curious looks from mothers at playgrounds after the racy scene. He joked about being recognized with comments like, “Are you thinking about the laundry room scene right now?” Wilson fondly remembered Winslet as cool, gracious, and game, noting that he hasn’t done a scene like that since the post-#MeToo era.
Winslet herself mentioned that the pair rehearsed the scene fully clothed before filming to get a general idea of what to expect. She admitted that her hips and backside were quite sore the next day, lending some truth to reports of bruises. Her candid recollection highlighted the supportive dynamic on set, despite the physical toll the scene took on her.
In recent years, Winslet has expressed support for intimacy coordinators, stating that she would have greatly benefited from their presence during intimate scenes. She shared with The New York Times Magazine that having someone in her corner would have helped her assert her comfort, especially when faced with unfavorable camera angles or crowded sets. Winslet’s experience reflects the evolving landscape of on-set protocols and the importance of actors’ well-being.
