The Sex Files: Gillian Anderson Makes Huge Candid Admissions About Realities of Shooting Steamy Scenes — After Including Filthy Fantasy In X-Rated Book
Gillan Anderson got candid about filming sex scenes.
June 1 2025, Published 4:00 p.m. ET
Gillian Anderson opened up about the often uncomfortable nature of filming intimate scenes, recounting her recent experience on the set of her latest film, The Salt Path, RadarOnline.com can reveal.
The film, which portrays the harrowing journey of a homeless couple traversing 630 miles along England's rugged coastline, has sparked conversation not only for its profound narrative but also for its behind-the-scenes challenges, particularly the filming of a pivotal sex scene in a cramped tent.
Gillian Anderson Gets Candid
Gillian Anderson is best know for her work in 'The X-Files.'
Anderson, best known for her role as FBI agent Dana Scully in The X-Files, shared her thoughts on the realities of portraying intimacy on screen when she and co-star Jason Isaacs found themselves reenacting a love scene within the confines of a two-man tent on the windy south-west coast of England.
Reflecting on the experience, she said, "That is something you just expect as an actor. That's part of what one does."
Anderson's History With Sex Scenes
Gillian Anderson stars in a new film 'The Salt Path'.
The 56-year-old actress stated that her extensive career has exposed her to various filming conditions, from working with the same partner to encountering intimate scenes on her very first day.
She remarked: "I've also done sex scenes on the first day of working, which is never a joy at any time during filming."
The experience, while awkward, led to a surprisingly supportive rapport with Isaacs, as she described him as "very amenable" and "very likable", expressing that they shared a unique connection by the end of their time working together. Anderson's comments about filming in tight quarters resonated with many actors who have navigated the delicate balance of portraying sexuality while maintaining professionalism.
When asked if such unconventional settings lead to any semblance of romantic adventure, Anderson quipped: "Well, sex in the back of a car, sex anywhere, I mean, yeah, why not? Uncomfortable, tight quarters, but needs must..."
The Film Adaptation
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Gillian Anderson plays Raynor Winn in 'The Salt Path'.
Based on Raynor Winn's best-selling memoir, The Salt Path, the film presents a compelling story which recounts Winn's journey along the South West Coast Path with her husband, who is afflicted with an incurable disease. The precious story is complemented by Anderson's dedication to authentically representing the character, humorously mentioning: "I think I might have threatened them within an inch of their lives to hire me!" The Salt Path is distinct not only for its inspiring plot but also for Anderson's captivating performance, which freezes moments of raw vulnerability.
Winn herself expressed admiration for Anderson's choice to embody her character, sharing her initial apprehension when she learned Anderson would portray her. She said: "I thought, 'How is that ever going to work? She's so perfect, so glamorous, so beautiful. How is she going to capture me at such a raw moment in my life?'" While the film adaptation features thematic elements not present in the memoir — such as the aforementioned tent sex scene — Winn emphasized the significance of honest storytelling.
She remarked: "There's only one particularly hot scene in that book — I gave them big waves. I got back a sweaty scene in a tent."
