Penn Badgley has opened up about the unique challenges he faced while filming a notable sex scene in the popular series *You*. In his forthcoming book, *Crushmore: Essays on Love, Loss, and Coming-of-Age*, co-authored with his *Podcrushed* co-hosts, Nava Kavelin and Sophie Ansari, Badgley provides a candid look at the experience. The book is set for release on October 14, 2023.
In an excerpt shared with the media outlet Vulture on September 25, 2023, Badgley described filming a pivotal scene from Season 3 where his character, Joe Goldberg, is supposed to be intimate with his wife, Love, portrayed by Victoria Pedretti. Instead, Joe finds himself disinterested and fantasizing about another character, Marienne Bellamy, played by Tati Gabrielle.
The scene presented a unique directorial challenge. According to Badgley, director Silver Tree decided to position the camera directly in front of his face. This choice led to a situation where Badgley had to simulate sex alone, as there was insufficient space for both him and Pedretti to be captured in the shot. He explained, “I’m effectively humping on the air, on a fake bed in a fake room, surrounded by a film crew.”
To prepare for the scene, Badgley found himself kneeling on a thin mattress while the camera hovered closely above him. This setup, he noted, created an atmosphere that initially prompted laughter among the crew. However, once the moment transitioned to filming, he described a shift in focus.
“A moment ago there was only resistance in my body to do what was needed, but upon the utterance of one word — action — I am supremely present in the face of sheer absurdity,” Badgley recalled. He pushed through the awkwardness, stating, “I look in camera. And I hump my ass off.”
Badgley’s insights shed light on the complexities actors face in intimate scenes, especially when simulating relationships with the audience as a backdrop. The candid nature of his reflections adds depth to the narrative of *You*, inviting viewers to reconsider what goes into the creation of such scenes.
For those intrigued by Badgley’s experience and the themes of love and personal growth, *Crushmore: Essays on Love, Loss, and Coming-of-Age* promises to deliver further insights into the lives of its authors. The anticipation for its release continues to build, especially among fans of *You* eager to see the behind-the-scenes realities of their favorite show.
