“Forever”’s Michael Cooper Jr. and Lovie Simone Open Up About Filming ‘Vulnerable’ Sex Scenes in Judy Blume Adaptation (Exclusive)

Forever Stars Discuss Filming ‘Vulnerable’ Scenes in Adaptation of Judy Blume’s Work

Michael Cooper Jr. and Lovie Simone, lead actors in the series Forever, recently spoke exclusively to PEOPLE about their experience filming intimate scenes in the Netflix adaptation of Judy Blume’s timeless novel, Forever. The duo, who play the characters Justin and Keisha, opened up about the challenges and emotions they faced while bringing these characters to life on screen.

Cooper Jr. and Simone revealed that filming intimate scenes can be far from romantic off-camera. However, they found comfort in each other during these vulnerable moments. Cooper Jr. shared, “Lovie and I really made a conscious effort to check in on one another. We’re a bit vulnerable, but immediately, we kind of felt comfortable with our intimacy coordinator. It’s a lot of technicality when it comes to those things.”

The actors highlighted the intricate choreography and level of detail involved in filming such scenes, with numerous crew members present. Despite the initial nerves, both stars supported each other to make the experience as comfortable as possible. Simone mentioned that working with the intimacy coordinator and director Mara made the process seamless, focusing on the story’s essence and characters’ emotions.

As the storyline delves into the characters’ first loves and intimate moments, capturing the essence of teenage awkwardness and tension was crucial for Cooper Jr. and Simone. Cooper Jr. shared his initial apprehension about portraying a nervous teenager, adding a touch of realism to his performance. Simone expressed how refreshing it was to portray the authenticity of teenage intimacy and romance, breaking away from stereotypical portrayals of teenage relationships.

Watching the series alongside their families added another layer of complexity for Cooper Jr. and Simone. They recounted their mothers’ reactions to the intimate scenes, with moments of discomfort leading to some fast-forwarding through certain scenes. Despite the initial awkwardness, both actors appreciated the support and understanding shown by their loved ones during these challenging scenes.

The onscreen chemistry between Cooper Jr. and Simone was evident as they shared anecdotes from filming and watching the series together. Their dedication to portraying the characters’ emotions authentically resonated with viewers, drawing attention to the delicate balance required when filming intimate scenes. The duo’s commitment to their roles and the storyline’s depth added a layer of complexity and realism to their onscreen relationship.

Forever is now available for streaming on Netflix, inviting audiences to witness the heartfelt journey of Justin and Keisha as they navigate love, intimacy, and adolescence. The candid reflections shared by Michael Cooper Jr. and Lovie Simone offer a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes dynamics of filming sensitive and vulnerable scenes, showcasing the dedication and professionalism required in bringing such stories to life.