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Overcoming Fear on Set: How 'Mayor of Kingstown' Creators Support Actors

Source: 'Laura doesn't like blood, we have put alcohol swabs under her nose‘; Mayor of Kingstown’ co-creator Hugh (2025-11-30)

In the making of the intense series 'Mayor of Kingstown,' co-creator Hugh Dillon shared insightful behind-the-scenes details about how the production team accommodated actress Laura Benanti’s significant fear of blood. To help her perform her role as Cindy Stephans convincingly, the crew used alcohol swabs placed under her nose to mask her discomfort with fake gore scenes. This thoughtful approach highlights the importance of actor well-being and mental health support in high-stakes productions. Laura Benanti also revealed that her role involved a no-makeup, slicked-back ponytail look, which she found liberating and empowering, emphasizing the trend toward more authentic and stripped-down character portrayals. Recent developments in the entertainment industry underscore the increasing focus on actor mental health and safety. For instance, studios now implement comprehensive mental health protocols, including on-set counseling and stress management resources, especially for roles involving intense or traumatic scenes. Additionally, advancements in special effects technology have reduced the need for actors to endure uncomfortable physical stimuli, further prioritizing their well-being. The use of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) in filming allows for more realistic scenes without physical exposure, aligning with the industry’s commitment to safer working environments. Moreover, the rise of diversity and inclusion initiatives has encouraged more authentic portrayals, often requiring actors to embrace raw, unfiltered looks and performances, as Benanti did with her no-makeup look. The entertainment sector is also witnessing a shift toward more transparent communication between cast and crew regarding mental health challenges. Leading studios now provide training for directors and producers on recognizing signs of distress and creating supportive environments. This cultural change is driven by a broader societal push for mental health awareness, especially following the global pandemic, which highlighted the importance of psychological safety in all workplaces. Furthermore, the integration of AI-driven safety tools helps monitor actors’ physical and emotional states during filming, ensuring immediate intervention if needed. In conclusion, the behind-the-scenes efforts in 'Mayor of Kingstown' exemplify a growing industry trend: prioritizing actor health and comfort without compromising artistic integrity. As technology advances and societal attitudes evolve, the entertainment industry continues to innovate in ways that support performers’ well-being, fostering a safer, more inclusive environment for creative storytelling. This commitment not only enhances the quality of productions but also sets a new standard for ethical practices in Hollywood and beyond, ensuring that actors can deliver powerful performances while feeling secure and respected.

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