As anyone with eyeballs and even a middling interest in pop culture knows, women are naked on-screen *way* more than men. And that's fine—the female body is beautiful and nothing to be ashamed of. But female nude scenes are often written and directed by men, and created with a distinctly male gaze. Meanwhile, it's still a pretty rare occurrence to see a man's genitalia in films. So, in the interest of leveling the playing field and embracing the female gaze, here are 23 times male celebrities got naked on camera.
Harvey Keitel: Bad Lieutenant
Harvey Keitel's full-frontal nudity in the 1992 neo-noir crime drama Bad Lieutenant is so iconic, it's the movie's poster.
(Image credit: Pyramide)
In a 2005 interview with Premiere magazine, Keitel addressed his history of onscreen nudity.
"An actor doesn’t do nude scenes. An actor plays an event and tells a story," he said (opens in new tab). "It’s not about nudity, it’s about revelations. So if anyone wants to discuss nudity with me they can forget about it because it’s not relevant. Any of my colleagues that I know would go all the way, just the way I did. I’m no exception. I just happened to have that part at the time."
Mark Rylance: Intimacy
In 2001, before he became one of Steven Spielberg's muses, Mark Rylance went full-front in Intimacy, opposite Kerry Fox. In one of the film's most memorable—and controversial—scenes, Fox performs unsimulated oral sex on Rylance. For art.
Years later, Rylance admitted that the controversy and criticism surrounding Intimacy was hard to handle—so much so that he regrets making the film at all.
"Intimacy was the most difficult job I've ever had. I was convinced it was a vital story about the difficulties people face finding intimacy in a big city like London," he told The Guardian (opens in new tab). "Hanif Kureishi's writing couldn't have been more intimate and revealing, but I found the making of the film and the subsequent publicity and personal attacks very, very painful. I wish I hadn't made it."
Gael Garcia Bernal and Diego Luna: Y Tu Mama Tambien
Y Tu Mama Tambien is widely regarded as one of the sexiest movies in all of mainstream movie history, so it's not really such a surprise that two of the film's male stars, Gael Garcia Bernal and Diego Luna, took the full frontal plunge in the movie. The movie follows their characters, two teenage boys, on a very erotic road trip with an older woman.
Vincent Gallo: The Brown Bunny
The 2003 experimental road film The Brown Bunny is best known for a controversial (and unsimulated) oral sex scene between writer, director, and star Vincent Gallo and actress Chloë Sevigny. Most of the controversy, however, surrounded Sevigny's decision to perform the unsimulated scene, not Gallo's decision to bare all on the receiving end.
At the time of release, Sevigny defended the controversial sex scene saying (opens in new tab), "It's a shame people write so many things when they haven't seen it. When you see the film, it makes more sense. It's an art film. It should be playing in museums. It's like an Andy Warhol movie."
Oliver Reed and Alan Bates: Women in Love
This 1969 Oscar-winning adaptation of D.H. Lawrence's classic novel featured a scene of nude male wrestling between stars Olive Reed and Alan Bates. Never has the phrase "nude male wrestling" been so, well, high-brow.
Cillian Murphy: 28 Days Later
The 2002 zombie flick was an instant classic in the horror genre, but there was at least one moment that audiences definitely did not want to shield their eyes from: Cillian Murphy's introduction, which involved his character waking up, stark naked, in a hospital bed in the midst of the zombie apocalypse. While we didn't find anything Cillian had to say about his 28 Days Later nude scene, he made it clear years later after doing nudity again in Peaky Blinders that he is NOT here for your questions (opens in new tab) about it, tyvm.
Peter Sarsgaard: Kinsey
Sarsgaard bared all in the 2004 biopic about sexologist Alfred Kinsey—and he didn't think it was a big deal.
"It didn't feel like anything," he told TV Guide (opens in new tab)of the scene. "I mean, if I always thought about the people on the other end of the camera — as if it were like a tube going to audiences all over the world — then I wouldn't be able to act anyway. This was just a room filled with four people and it seemed appropriate for the scene. The reason I'm nude is to test the waters before I [kiss Dr. Kinsey, played by Liam Neeson] later in the scene. It had a purpose. It's not nudity for you guys, it's nudity for him."
The 56 Most Popular Vibrators, Reviewed by Experts
"Puff is a brand new compact suction vibe. Its outer ring rests against your anatomy to create a rhythmic sucking sensation with five intensity settings that allow you to choose the right amount of suction to get you to the place you want to be. It has not failed any users yet, and I recommend it to all of my female bodied clients." —Tammy Nelson
(Image credit: Courtesy)
The Virtually Silent Vibrator
The SKYN Vibes Personal Body Massager Vibrator, $28
"SKYN Vibes is an amazing vibrator as they’re virtually silent and still very powerful. They’re also a great shower sex accessory since it’s totally waterproof and perfect for play that doesn't involve intercourse." —Gigi Engle
"I tell my clients the FemmeFun Ultra Bullet packs the most bang for the buck and size. It looks like a tiny purple flashlight with a hot pink on/off button, and has 20 different powerful vibration modes. It's perfect for travel, especially if noise is a consideration as well. It’s whisper quiet, so vibe away no matter where you are." —Dr. Holly Richmond
(Image credit: Courtesy of K-Y)
The Bullet That's More Powerful Than It Looks
The K-Y Ultimate Pleasure Personal Bullet Vibrator, $10
"For women looking for a discreet option, I highly recommend the K-Y Ultimate Pleasure Personal Bullet Vibrator—small and very quiet—this vibrator is an amazing option and travels very well. Don't be fooled by its size, it delivers ten-fold! Added bonus—it's waterproof, so you can bring it into the bath or shower." —Dr. Jennifer Wider
"This fabulous toy simulates oral sex, which is the ultimate pleasure for many women. It has a very comfortable, smooth nub that moves up and down, rotates, and vibrates. And, you can change the speed and intensity of the “oral sex” you are giving yourself, all without having to tell a partner to do so! Because of this, for many women, this toy isn’t the next-best thing to oral sex—it’s better!" —Laurie Mintz
(Image credit: Courtesy)
Bust on a Budget
Luna Premium Rechargeable Personal Wand Massager, $27
"You don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars to get the job done! People love this affordable wand vibrator with many unique vibration patterns. For its small price tag, it’s very powerful. The material is also comfortable, soft and easy to clean." —Christine DeLozier
"Using sonic waves to stimulate the clitoris, rather than direct contact, SILA creates a steady build towards climax without overstimulating. SILA’s wide mouth allows the clitoris to be pleasured from multiple angles, opening the door to a more intense orgasm. Wonderful for anyone looking to explore their body, SILA’s multiple settings facilitate a mindful and mind-blowing sensual experience." —Casey Tanner
"For decades, the pleasure product arena has been dominated by large wands. But plusOne's personal massager, at 5 inches, is tiny yet powerful to get the job done. Whether you’re feeling kinky or have a kink in your neck, the personal massager is perfect for you! It has a rounded tip that is extremely flexible so you can hit “the spot” every time. Plus it’s rechargeable so you never have to worry about running to the store for batteries just to have a little fun." —Stephanie Trachtenberg
"For any couple who wants to start with a product that is small and simple, this is the perfect item. The vibrator has seven vibration patterns, and its discreet look that will make each person more comfortable introducing toys into their bedroom." —S.D.
"Lovelife Rev by OhMiBod is the latest addition to OhMiBod's award-winning Lovelife collection. This vibe was designed with accessibility in mind—pleasure for all. It is a compact, lightweight vibrator that slides over a user’s fingers—a remedy for anyone who may struggle to get a sufficient grip on objects. The Rev’s ergonomic design also ensures that both right- and left-handed people can use it effectively. Additional features include a quiet but powerful motor, five preset pulsations, and a manual printed in larger font for improved readability." —Suki Dunham
"One tool reigns supreme when it comes to tried-and-true results, and that's the Hitachi Magic Wand. This personal massager covers a larger surface than your average disco stick, and demands more power than a battery can deliver. If it plugs into the wall, you're gonna have a ball--and that's why I'm in a long-term relationship with this consistent and intense vibrator." —Dr. Lindsay Byron
"I recommend the Le Wand Pleasure Set. It comes with different attachments and can be used as a full-body personal massager. The different settings and intensity make it a great toy for couples starting out or more advanced toy users. You can pair this pleasure device with K-Y's Yours and Mine Couples Lubricant (opens in new tab) including two different products that provide a tingling and warming sensation for him and her. Use them interchangeably and discover heightened sensations and intensity for a night of sexual fun. This adds novelty to your sex life and permission to have fun with lubricants." —Dr. Shannon Chavez
"Sleeker and sexier than the original award-winning Lora Dicarlo Osé, the Osé 2 is the latest in sex tech and the ultimate when it comes to a luxury rabbit stimulator. The Osé 2 is not for the faint of Vulva and explores more sensation than mere vibration. The internal arm is an adjustable g-spot massager that replicates the come-hither motion of a finger on the g-zone area while the clitoral stimulator is designed to mimic the sensation of oral sex thru its unique rhythmic thrumming over the clitoris. So why this product? Now while it does take patience to find the perfect fit for your body that is exactly what makes the product so invaluable. Its unique features and ability to be customizable to your body allow you not only to discover new ways to enhance your pleasure, but also gives you more agency over your orgasms- and pleasure will be had with this product! Innovation, blended orgasms, and comes with a personal session with a certified Wellness Coach, the Lora Dicarlo Osé 2 is a 10 out of 10 when it comes to best rabbit vibrators." —Kit Richardson
"For those who have never tried a glass dildo. What are you waiting for? You will wonder what took you so long to try it. Modern technology makes them not only beautiful and shiny, like jewelry, they are very durable as well. Glass can take temperature swings in the extreme so it can be run under warm water to bring it close to body temperature or put in the freezer for an interesting sensation as the glass warms against your skin. It has the added feature of being nearly pore less so there is no surface friction to irritate sensitive skin and it is a dream to clean. Vibrations translate well through it too if you pair it with your favorite wand Virtually any pleasure you can dream up is possible with glass." —Tami Rose
"Eva is the lovechild of the dynamic, badass—ahem, female—duo behind Dame Products. Take note that this is the *first* hands-free, strap-free, non-intrusive couples vibrator. Eva is made of the smoothest silicone, with flexible wings that fit snugly under a woman's labia majora, making it possible to experience clitoral stimulation during sex or while playing solo." —Polly Rodriguez
"Our top seller in this category is a vibrator called The Romance. It is powerful (not quiet unrelenting, it is the next level below which is called “intense”). People who like remote control vibes like them to be ultra quiet. This one fits their needs nicely." —Tom Nardone
"For those looking for the best bang for their buck and don’t want to sacrifice quality, the plusOne Dual Vibrating Massager is a product you can be confident that your purchase will leave you satisfied and won’t make your bank account cry. Rechargeable, waterproof, and silky-smooth body safe silicone ensures your pleasure play is a 5-star experience. With its bulbous and curved internal arm and strong vibrating clitoral arm the plusOne Dual Vibrating Massager is ideal for those looking for a fuller sensation internally while receiving a strong vibration externally. — K.R.
"The wearable Bluetooth App-controlled vibrator is perfect for remote play whether you are across the room or across the country. Esca 2's integrated LED lights up and corresponds to the vibrations – letting your partner see exactly what kind of good vibrations they are sending your way." - S.D.
(Image credit: Courtesy)
The Best Vibrator For Getting Sensual Alone & Together
"The Ballerina’s strong motor is perfect for discovering pleasure zones beyond the clitoris that exist on the vulva. Crafted with innovative human touch texture that feels deliciously addictive on the skin to massage over the labia and surrounding areas. As you get lost in the sensation of touch, how else can you awaken your senses?Teasing your tastebuds or turning up your sexy-slow jams playlist. If you’re feeling generous, invite a partner in on the action." - Sinnead TM Ali
"Focus is not your average vibrator. It’s equipped with a sonic motor that operates at a super-high frequency, providing 31,000 vibrations per minute with a reverberating motion vs. the typically fast spin of a traditional vibe. This assures powerful stimulation that’s also gentle and won’t numb you out if you use it for long or use firm pressure. Plus the design is made for a comfy hold! The soft ball-like base is easy to keep in your hand and maneuver around erogenous zones and the convenient attachments let you customize what kind of sensation you want–and what part of the body you want to focus on!" - Anne Hodder-Shipp
(Image credit: Courtesy)
The One That Wraps the Clitoris in Orgasmic Pleasure
"Not only is this vibrator gorgeous, it doesn’t look like a vibrator at all. Even better, it offers sensation and stimulation in multiple spots, giving users more external pleasure. At the same time, for the person who prefers direct clitoral stimulation, the Mimic provides pin-pointed pleasure." - Brian Sanderson
"The Chorus is one of We-Vibe’s newest and most innovative couple’s toys yet. Not only does it include the same 10+ vibration modes, dual g-spot, clitoral and partner stimulation, as well as Bluetooth control capabilities as the older models, but this one now has a wireless remote that responds to hand pressure. The squeeze control increases or decreases the intensity of the vibrations based on how hard you squeeze, allowing for the vibrations to match the energy of the moment." - Amy Baldwin
"A smaller version of the original, Lovelife Cuddle Mini is petite and discreet, with a soft design. It's our vibrator of choice when women come to us for suggestions on an introductory vibrator. Women LOVE this item, and we are constantly getting requests from people for it!" —S.D.
"Our most popular couple's vibe keeps getting better and better. The latest innovation of the C-shaped vibrator that can be worn during sex is more flexible, powerful, and can be operated with an app that also works remotely. That means your partner can control your vibrator even when you're far apart." —Claire Cavanah
"The vibrator you can take anywhere—discreet, wearable, waterproof. Gone are the days of worrying that your vibrator will go off in your carryon while the airport agent is searching your bags…now you can bring your vibrator with you and feel like the sex goddess you are wherever you go. I like to use the Palma as the perfect foreplay…wearing your vibrator out to a fancy dinner and no one is any wiser is a great way to build pleasure and desire." - Dr. Jordin Wiggins
“The prostate is a man’s most direct access point to explosive orgasms. [I recommend exploring] prostate stimulation for psychological and sexual health and wellness, but the biggest reason for exploring the prostate is to unlock higher arousal and levels of pleasure." - Dr. Chris Donaghue
"Dancing with yourself has a new meaning with blueMotion NEX|1 by OhMiBod. This Bluetooth enabled App-controlled panty vibe will vibrate to the beat of the music from your Apple Music or Spotify library. Create the perfect playlist and DJ your own orgasm." - S.D.
"The Melt has just the right amount of suction AND vibration. It’s designed to be slim enough to work for every couple and every position, but I like it just as much for self-pleasure during a solo session. It can be hooked up to an app so your partner can control the intensity while you hold is just where you want it." - J.W.
"This toy is the perfect thing for beginners. Its discreet, bullet-like shape makes it ideal for clitoral pleasure. Not to mention it's rose gold plating makes this vibrator sleek and ultra-chic. The Thrill has three speeds, which is great for a sex toy newbie who doesn't want to be too overwhelmed with settings, is completely waterproof for bath time, and is rechargeable (no batteries required). This is a luxury finger vibe without the price tag of so many similar vibrators. It's only $15. It's a total steal!" - G.E.
"It easily passes for a lipstick you can keep in your purse or makeup bag. Plus it's powerful and functional, so you can actually use and enjoy it. I like to recommend this one to clients in need of something discreet and private." - J.M.
"Yes, this soft, comfortable, powerful vibrator functions as a vibrating cock ring, but it’s more versatile than that. Users can also stimulate nipples and other erogenous zones for a more sensual and full-body experience." - B.S.
"Some toys do transcend this measurement method.Clit Suckers don’t need to be powerful and they are all approximately the same noise level. Our choice in that category is the Shegasm. It's affordable and has a variable speed control many others don’t. It is brand new." —T.N.
"I wasn't kidding when I said I love the entire California Dreaming line. I love the colors, the motors, the silky silicone. But this is another standout from the line—it features a clitoral stimulator (win) and thrusting vaginal stimulator (double win!) that thumps up and down." - J.M.
"Okay, seriously, this one is my favorite of the California Dreaming line I'm obsessed with, because it is like nothing I've ever seen before in a vibrator. It features a pulsating pad that thumps. The motion reminds me of a base speaker on full blast! You can put it on your clitoris for thumping vibes on your clit, or insert it and the thumping pads like up to your g-spot." - J.M.
"This unique toy comes packaged in a keepsake box and includes fine design features like a Swarovski crystal embellishment on the handle. It has a warm-up function as well as dual stimulation: wave vibrations and rumbly vibrations—both of which send pleasure sensations across the body, thanks to the fact that it curves up gently to stimulate the G-Spot. Use a few drops of Astroglide Liquid (opens in new tab)with this one to take the wave vibrations to new heights." —Dr. Jess O’Reilly
"As a longtime Magic Wand devotee, I didn’t think another wand vibrator could live up to such magic. Le Wand Petite is a more compact version (think smaller head and handle) that is purse-sized and perfect for travel." —Charyn Pfeuffer
"At only $36, this powerful vibe is a steal, given all its features. Bean has 6 modes, is waterproof, and can be used for both targeted and broader stimulation. Like all our vibrators, it is made with medical grade silicone so even though it's more affordable, you're not compromising on using body-safe materials." —P.R.
"Perfect for travel, this small but powerful vibrator can go anywhere with you discretely. It’s also a great addition to your bedside table at home because it’s small size doesn’t mean small orgasms! It’s very easy to hold in your hand and get at just the right angle, both during solo- and partner sex—indeed, it’s an ideal fit to use on yourself during intercourse." - L.M.
"This is my go-to toy when I want a lazy orgasm. It requires very little activity, motion, or lube, and can even be used over underwear, if you're feeling REALLY lazy. It's very ergonomic and fits perfectly in your hand, so it's also an excellent choice for providing external clitoral stimulation during intercourse." —Dr. Zhana Vrangalova
"Experiencing sexual pleasure goes far beyond the genitals. The Frenchman allows you to explore and discover erogenous zones from your neck to your toes. Its soft strokes mimic the sensation of being licked all over your body while being totally in control. This super flexible vibrator paired with a water-based lubricant heightens the sensation of being caressed and teased. The body's erogenous zones are totally unique to each person so you may be in for some surprises! It’s fully waterproof for a bath-time date or quickie in the shower." - S.T.M.A.
(Image credit: Courtesy)
The Pulsing One
Fun Factory Stronic Real Realistic Pulsator Thrusting Dildo, $170
"The Stronic Real makes me glad that I’m alive and have a vagina. It’s one of those rare sex toys that I feel the need to keep rigorously testing even after I know I’ve used it enough to write a detailed review. It’s a good thing the Stronics’ battery life is so long (I’ve found mine to last something like an hour and a half), because you may want to spend a while with this toy. I feel like I’m doing myself a disservice if I dedicate less than 45 minutes to the Stronic Real." —Felicity
"When receiving oral sex, some clit-owners prefer licking, others prefer sucking. If you're the latter (like myself), you're going to love the Sona Cruise! It provides that sucking motion experience, in the exact speed and pattern that you want." —Z.V.
"I adore this toy, which was so obviously designed by women. This multi-speed, waterproof vibrator is like the totally sexy-hot version of Gumby. You can bend its pink, flexible body whichever way you choose (which is an extremely satisfying thing to do, separate from its intended use), making it ideal for G-spot, clitoral, or all-over stimulation. It lies pretty flat too, so it's discreet (in case you're not in the mood to show off the outline of your favorite sex toy in your bag." —A.E.
"This toy is just so elegant. Everything from the branding to the design is beautifully executed. Fin is small and unobtrusive: You put it on your fingers (or have your partner put it on his or hers) and it becomes an easy (and very fun) addition to partner or solo play. " —A.E.
"The Noje line by Blush is one of my favorites, and the G Slim is their newest toy. This affordable vibrator has a lot of power! Plus, its shape is ideal for G-spot stimulation or slipping between bodies during partnered sex for some clitoral pleasure. The only thing I’m unsure of about the Noje G Slim is which color I like best!" —Amy Boyajian
"The Nova is an updated twist on the classic rabbit vibrator. There are two powerful motors on each arm, which can be controlled independently, and the external arm is super flexible to contour to the shape of your body. One of my favorite features is that you can control the vibrators and movement via an app on your smartphone, so no fumbling for buttons when you’re using it!" —A.B.
"With the recent advancement of air pressure toys (toys that create suction around the clitoris to mimic oral sex), there has been an influx of this style of vibrator on the market. The Satisfyer Pro Plus Vibration is my favorite of the bunch by far. It combines this new technology with classic vibrations to deliver a variety of different sensations with varying intensities. Plus, it’s waterproof so can accompany you in the shower or bath tub! " —A. Baldwin
"This the perfect first vibrator. About 70 percent of women need clitoral stimulation to reach orgasm, so it's great to start off with a vibe that focuses on just that. The Minna Limon also includes a brilliant squeezable interface—the harder you squeeze, the stronger the vibrations get. On top of that, for a small toy, it harbors an unprecedented degree of strength. Since every body is different, it features customizable memory to allow a completely personalized experience." —P.R.
"Yes, the name is totally cringeworthy, but this waterproof toy is designed to provide touchless stimulation of the clitoris using pulsating pleasure waves that feel both gentle and powerful. There's really nothing else like it. The interchangeable suction heads are made of soft, hygienic silicone and you can easily switch between 8 levels of intensity. Studies showed that women using this vibrator were able to achieve orgasm, on average, in less than 2 minutes." —P. R.
"This massager is so discreet no one will ever know that it’s a sex toy. It fits right between your fingers allowing you, or your partner, to put the vibration right where you want it." —Susan Colvin
"The Jack Rabbit is our #1 top selling product and has been for years, providing a combination of rocking g-spot massage and clitoral stimulation." - S.C.
"Many vibrators are essentially variations on popular and well-designed themes, and at first glance, this is a small twice-as-nice, with a clitoral stimulator and a shaft; but when you start playing with the stretchy silicone loop, it takes you to places other similar vibes simply don't. An ingenious design." —C.Q.
"This lipstick look-alike vibe is super small and discreet, making it ideal for travel or leaving it on your bedside table. Not only is the Stick Vibe really cute, but it is also very practical. It is waterproof up to 20 inches, and will run for 5 hours on a single battery! A dial control allows you to increase or decrease the intensity."— Angela Wells
"Introduce anal play with a Novice Plug, the perfect anal vibrator for newbies with a slim design, smooth silicone, and a remote control from up to 30 feet away." — A.W.
Interviewed: Wild Flower (opens in new tab) founder Amy Boyajian, writer and sexual wellness advocate (opens in new tab) Arielle Egozi, Babeland (opens in new tab) co-founder Claire Cavanah (opens in new tab), Unbound Box (opens in new tab) CEO Polly Rodriguez, Lovehoney (opens in new tab)'s sexpert Jess Wilde, Good Vibrations (opens in new tab)' staff sexologist Carol Queen, Ohmibod (opens in new tab) cofounder and creator of the original Music Vibrator (opens in new tab) Suki Dunham, Astroglide's resident sexologist Dr. Jess O’Reilly (opens in new tab), sex toy blogger Felicity of Phallophile Reviews (opens in new tab), certified sex therapist and Director of Sexual Wellness for Ella Paradis (opens in new tab) Dr. Holly Richmond, sex expert and writer Charyn Pfeuffer (opens in new tab), Kimberly Faubel of Clandestine Devices (opens in new tab), Vibrant (opens in new tab) President and CEO Angela Wells, founder and CEO of CalExotics Susan Colvin (opens in new tab), LELO (opens in new tab) sexpert Dr. Zhana Vrangalova (opens in new tab), CalExotics’ Resident Sexologist Dr. Jill McDevitt (opens in new tab), sexologist Dr. Jordin Wiggins (opens in new tab), Dr. Chris Donaghue, Doctor of Clinical Sexology and Human Sexuality, K-Y Partner Dr. Jennifer Wider, M.D (opens in new tab)., Brian Sanderson (opens in new tab), Director of Operations at Jack and Jill Adult Superstore, Anne Hodder-Shipp (opens in new tab), ACS, sex educator, Amy Baldwin (opens in new tab), Sex Educator, Sex and Relationship Coach, and co-host of the Shameless Sex Podcast (opens in new tab), Sinnead TM Ali (opens in new tab), Smile Makers’ Community and Content Manager, Laurie Mintz (opens in new tab), Ph.D., Author of Becoming Cliterate (opens in new tab) & A Tired Woman’s Guide to Passionate Sex (opens in new tab) and sexpert for sex toy brand LELO, Stephanie Trachtenberg, Sexual Wellness Expert, Official Speaker at Women’s March NYC and Head of Marketing at personal care brand Clio, Tom Nardone (opens in new tab) President of PriveCo, Tammy Nelson (opens in new tab), PhD, sex and relationship therapist, Casey Tanner (opens in new tab), Tami Rose, owner of Romantic Adventures (opens in new tab) adult store, Dr. Lindsay Byron (AKA Lux ATL (opens in new tab)), Lilly Sparks, Founder & CEO of afterglow (opens in new tab), Certified Sex Therapist and expert for LELO, sex expert Kit Richardson (opens in new tab), Sex Therapist Dr. Shannon Chavez (opens in new tab), Christine DeLozier, author of Diet for Great Sex: Food for Male and Female Sexual Health (opens in new tab), and SKYN Condoms Sex & Intimacy Expert (opens in new tab), certified sex coach, sexologist, and author Gigi Engle (opens in new tab).
James McAvoy: The Last King of Scotland
In this drama about Ugandan President Idi Amin, McAvoy played Amin's doctor and treated fans to a quick bit of full-frontal nudity in one scene of his character getting out of bed. While he didn't address his nudity in the film specifically, he did talk about the anxiety he felt while filming the movie's sex scenes.
"It's very nerve-wracking and scary and my biggest fear is that you're going to make [the actress in the sex scene] think you're getting off on it and you're getting your kicks, which is my biggest angst as an actor," he said during the Last King of Scotland press tour (opens in new tab).
Ralph Fiennes: A Bigger Splash
Luca Guadagnino, who went on to direct Call Me By Your Name, got Ralph Fiennes to bare all during a scene in 2016's A Bigger Splash and once you see it, you will never look at Lord Voldemort the same again.
"Well, yes, I like to look fairly in shape," Fiennes told Australia's Daily Telegraph (opens in new tab) of prepping to go full-frontal in the film. "I knew I was going to be nude and so I was working out, but I was also exercising beforehand. I like to keep fit. I do a bit of yoga and general workout stuff."
Viggo Mortensen: Eastern Promises
Viggo Mortensen's nude moment in Eastern Promises is actually part of an extremely prolonged four-minute fight scene that takes place in a Turkish bath. "I'm just glad it was shot in two days and not six as it was initially written," he said (opens in new tab) of filming. "Honestly, though, it took me all of about eight seconds to decide whether to do the scene naked.... It was slippery, painful, embarrassing. You see what you see. I always knew the scene should be as realistic as the rest of the movie, so I couldn't feasibly keep the towel on."
Ben Affleck: Gone Girl
This blink-and-you-miss-it scene takes place while Ben Affleck is taking a shower, and could easily have been cut from the movie—so good on Affleck for keeping things realistic and embracing male nudity. "The penis is in there," he joked (opens in new tab) during press for the film. "It costs extra. It's IMAX penis! You have to pay 15 bucks to see it in 3D. It looks better in 3D. You should know it was very cold.... It was freezing. It was subzero." Meanwhile, Affleck's then-wife Jennifer Garner said (opens in new tab) of the moment, "He's showing his penis.... What I have to say is, 'You're welcome.' I just try to consider myself a charitable person and I wanted to give back. You give me so much, I wanted to give something back to all of you."
Jason Segel: Forgetting Sarah Marshall
Jason Segel's nude scene in Forgetting Sarah Marshall (during which his character gets broken up with) was fully full-frontal—and he was completely on board with it. "I thought that was hilarious," Segel said (opens in new tab). "I was actually not very uncomfortable doing it. I really felt free. You have to put it in the context that this was 2006, 2007, and this hadn't been done before, in my recollection, where the main guy was going to be naked in the first five minutes of the movie." Segel also joked (opens in new tab) that his mom "cried" upon learning about the scene, and sent out the following email to his entire family: "I would like to inform you all that Jason has chosen to do full frontal nudity, however, it is not gratuitous and is essential to the plot."
Mark Wahlberg: Boogie Nights
Okay, so while Boogie Nights *did* embrace full frontal male nudity by showing Dirk Diggler's penis, Mark Wahlberg wore a prosthetic for the character's big moment. Also, said prosthetic was apparently made of plaster and had a pubic wig especially dyed to match Wahlberg's hair. "I show up at basically this prosthetic effects house in the valley, I have to stand there and take off my clothes, and they start basically sculpting this thing around you. It's very uncomfortable, very awkward," he said (opens in new tab). "The first time that they did it, they did the exact same specs as what they thought [porn star] John Holmes was like....this thing was like down past my knee, and literally, it was pretty flaccid." Fun fact: The prosthetic is the only prop Wahlberg kept from a movie.
Kevin Bacon: Wild Things
Kevin Bacon's iconic nude scene in Wild Things involves him stepping out of the shower and wrapping a towel around his waist. That's it. Pretty simple. But the scene was a very big deal when it hit theaters in 1998. "I honestly really didn’t think about it. I said, 'If that’s the shot, that’s the shot that works, it’s okay.' I just didn’t think it was going to be such a big deal," Bacon said (opens in new tab) of the moment. "It wasn’t until we got to the press junket for the film that every single question, every single person asked me about it. By the way, when [we] got to the European press, nobody asked me about it." Also amusing, he had a no-nude clause in his contract: "I was a producer on the film, and in my contract, as an actor, I had a no-frontal-nudity clause. So, in theory, I could’ve sued myself."
Richard Gere: American Gigolo
Richard Gere plays a prostitute in American Gigolo, and as such was naked quite a bit. He's said (opens in new tab) that the scenes in question weren't even a big deal, and were just a "natural" part of making the movie: "If I recall, [the nudity] wasn't in the script. It was just in the natural process of making the movie. I certainly felt vulnerable, but I think it's different for men than women."
Jude Law: The Talented Mr. Ripley
Jude Law had a kinda-sorta full frontal moment (really, it was a bird's eye view) while stepping out of a bathtub during The Talented Mr. Ripley. As far as we can tell, he hasn't chatted explicitly about the scene—and fair enough: Men take baths naked, BFD.
Tom Hardy: Bronson (and a million other things)
To be honest, Tom Hardy is rarely *not* nude in his movies, and while he does appear naked in Bronson, he's most famous for going nude in the TV show Taboo. Weirdly, the nude scenes were cut from the series, much to his dismay. "You’re lucky there was a loin cloth because I didn’t want one," he said (opens in new tab). "It’s not a period drama until someone gets naked and covers themselves in blood... I was in Tilbury, in the moat, in the docks, with nothing on. We were trying to eke out drama from any opportunity and none of that makes the cut."
Bruce Willis: Color of Night
This erotic thriller almost got an NC-17 rating thanks to Bruce Willis' intense nude scenes, which, to quote EW (opens in new tab), "caused quite a stir with the MPAA." Apparently the ratings board made producers make cuts, saying, "These were intense sex scenes. If Bruce Willis had stepped out of a shower and was toweling himself, or was reaching for a telephone and there was a fleeting glimpse of nudity, [the rating] would probably be an R. But if you’re shown totally nude and screwing somebody on a bed, that’s something else." The scenes in question appear to have made it to the director's cut, fear not.
Michael Fassbender: Shame
Michael Fassbender was all kinds of naked in Shame (it is about a sex addict, after all), and apparently was entirely unbothered by the experience: "I was self-conscious, for sure, but it was something I had to get over very quickly," he said (opens in new tab). "Those scenes are really where you get an insight into the guy's psyche. When you see him naked, it's in more ways than one. I had to be on the ball and not thinking about those things. And you try to make sure that your partner in the scene is comfortable."
Ewan McGregor: The Pillow Book
Ewan McGregor has been naked in several movies, and was incredibly real about doing so for The Pillow Book, where his character has a lot of sex: "There’s tons of sex in that film. We didn’t even bother putting clothes on between scenes," he said (opens in new tab). "I had quite a full-on sex scene with a 75-year-old Japanese guy. We're kissing, and I remember going, 'He’s got a mustache and that’s kind of weird. Oh! That's definitely a scrotum. That’s odd.'"
Colin Farrell: A Home at the End of the World
For years, Colin Farrell had an infamous reputation as a Hollywood bad boy, but he didn't bare all until 2004, when he played the very naive Bobby in A Home at the End of the World. The full-frontal scene is short (pun intended).
"No, it’s nothing, man!" Farrell said (opens in new tab) of the nude scene. "I walk to a door and you see my c—, and I walk out of the shot. It’s dark, and it’s three inches, uh, seconds long."
Mark Ruffalo: In the Cut
Mark Ruffalo, best known these days as mild-mannered scientist Bruce Banner/giant green monster The Hulk, went full-frontal in 2003's In the Cut opposite Meg Ryan.
Ruffalo said (opens in new tab) that writer/direction Jane Campion "wanted the character to be such a competent and confident lover that she kept shouting things like, 'You’re not at school anymore. You know what you’re doing.' It was very stressful."
He also admitted that going nude in front of Ryan was stressful, too. "I was scared. I was really scared. And she was with Russell Crowe. All I could think of is 'what am I going to be like compared to Russell Crowe?'"
Heath Ledger: Brokeback Mountain
Brokeback Mountain, starring Jake Gyllenhaal and the late Heath Ledger generated a lot of buzz when it was released in 2005. The movie, which told the love story of two sheep herders in Wyoming, was a tender exploration of love. In the Australian and European versions of the film, however, there is a full-frontal moment from Ledger. Director Ang Lee had reportedly (opens in new tab) intended to cut all full-frontal nudity from the final film, but paparazzi pictures showing Ledger nude leaked and Lee ultimately left the nudity in the film (a stunt double appears for Gyllenhaal).
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(Image credit: Wakefield Poole + Konstantine + Quality X)
Mehera Bonner is a celebrity and entertainment news writer who enjoys Bravo and Antiques Roadshow with equal enthusiasm. She was previously entertainment editor at Marie Claire and has covered pop culture for over a decade.
