Aubrey Plaza, popularly known for her portrayal of April Ludgate in the NBC comedy Parks & Recreation, has recently disclosed an uncomfortable experience during the filming of The To Do List.

In a 2013 interview with Conan O’Brien, Plaza revealed that she was forced to masturbate on camera in front of a group of old men while wearing only her underwear and a Clinton t-shirt.

Plaza had envisioned a different scene where her hand would slowly go out of frame, but to her surprise, the camera was mounted on the ceiling, and she found herself in a full-body shot.

Despite her discomfort, the director instructed her to follow the script and masturbate for the scene.

Plaza complied with the request as she thought it was part of the job.

However, such incidents are unlikely to occur in today’s film industry, which is more cautious about actors’ comfort.

Sets now have intimacy coordinators whose primary concern is actors’ safety and well-being.

They ensure that actors feel comfortable during intimate scenes and have the ability to say no to anything they are not comfortable with.

While Plaza’s revelation may seem shocking, it is essential to understand that the incident took place a decade ago when cancel culture and #MeToo movements did not exist.

Actors were not immediately impeded by unspoken behind-the-scene rules, censorship, the threat of blacklisting, or confidentiality clauses.

Nevertheless, it is crucial to acknowledge that such practices are unacceptable and must be condemned.

Plaza’s experience has highlighted the need for change in the film industry, and it is essential to recognize that such practices are now redundant.

Future promotional interviews may bring up these issues and shine a light on practices that are no longer considered acceptable in Hollywood.

Plaza’s career has continued to flourish despite the uncomfortable experience, and she is set to debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe in Agatha: Coven of Chaos.

Although it is uncertain whether Plaza will speak about her experience again, the incident serves as a reminder that actors should not be subjected to such practices on sets.

It is crucial to create a safe space for actors on sets, and intimacy coordinators have been a godsend in this regard.

They help establish boundaries and make sure that actors feel comfortable during intimate scenes.

The film industry must recognize that actors’ well-being must always come first.

Plaza’s story has garnered attention, and it highlights the importance of creating safe spaces on sets.

As the film industry continues to evolve, it is vital to remember that actors’ comfort and safety should always be a priority.