Olivia Cooke’s Near-Fainting Episode on ‘The Girlfriend’ Set Due to Skipping Breakfast Before Filming Nude Scene
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Popular actress Olivia Cooke recently shared a harrowing experience from the set of the thrilling series ‘The Girlfriend’, where she found herself at the verge of fainting after opting to skip breakfast before filming a nude scene. Cooke, known for her role as Cherry in the Prime Video series, revealed her struggles with body image and the pressures of filming intimate scenes during an interview with the Sunday Times.


The 31-year-old actress candidly expressed the insecurities she faced with only herself, her partner, and her doctor witnessing her vulnerability during nude scenes. Cooke reflected on a particularly challenging day when she decided to forego breakfast before a scheduled nude scene, only for the filming to be delayed, leaving her feeling lightheaded and on the brink of fainting. “I felt like I was gonna faint … I was like, ‘I’m not doing this anymore, no way. Give me a croissant!'” she recounted.
In ‘The Girlfriend’, directed by her co-star Robin Wright, Cooke portrays the character of Cherry, a cunning social climber intent on captivating a naive trust fund heir against his mother’s wishes. The actress bravely addressed her personal struggles with weight and body image, expressing fears of her body not meeting societal standards and the impact this had on her mental well-being.
To combat these pressures, Cooke made the decision to detach from social media platforms like Instagram, where unrealistic body standards often prevail, offering her a sense of relief. She highlighted the detrimental effects of such platforms on women, contributing to increased anxiety and body insecurity, a byproduct of patriarchal influences.
In a candid conversation with the Times, the British actress opened up about a past mental health crisis she endured at 22, which manifested as daily panic attacks and intrusive thoughts, ultimately leading to an OCD diagnosis. Cooke described her twenties as a tumultuous period, filled with uncertainty and a struggle to navigate adulthood amidst internal turmoil.
Acting served as a sanctuary for Cooke during her mental health battles, providing solace and a sense of purpose amid the chaos. The actress found a sense of peace upon returning to the U.K. in 2020 after years of working in the U.S., reconnecting with her roots and finding comfort in familiar surroundings with childhood friends.
Despite the challenges she has faced, Cooke’s resilience and openness about her personal struggles serve as a testament to her strength. ‘The Girlfriend’ Season 1 is currently available for streaming on Prime Video, offering viewers a glimpse into Cooke’s compelling performance in the series. The actress’s journey of self-discovery and overcoming adversities stands as an inspiration to many, encouraging open conversations about mental health and self-acceptance within the industry.
As Cooke continues to navigate her career and personal growth, her experiences serve as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing mental well-being and seeking support during challenging times. Her story resonates with audiences, shedding light on the complexities of fame, body image, and self-worth in the entertainment industry.
