SMILF creator and star Frankie Shaw has been accused of misconduct on the set of the Showtime dramedy, according to The Hollywood Reporter, which detailed numerous allegations, including that Shaw behaved inappropriately while overseeing the filming of sex scenes and that she separated the show's writers by race.
Several complaints concerned Shaw's alleged mishandling of nude scenes starring Samara Weaving, who plays the girlfriend of Rafi (Miguel Gomez) on the show. According to THR, Weaving was given 40 minutes' notice to film a nude scene for the show in Season 1, despite a no-nudity clause in her contract. When Weaving declined, Shaw reportedly dragged Weaving into her trailer, yanked off her own shirt and asked Weaving why she had an issue being nude if Shaw didn't. (Representatives for Shaw and Weaving did not immediately return TV Guide's request for comment.)
Another incident reportedly occurred during the filming of Season 2 when Weaving was slated to shoot a nude scene with Gomez. Her reps requested a closed set, which director Cate Shortland agreed to. Shaw, who was working offset, was called in to ask how things were going; when told that the offset monitors (where outside crew could watch what was being filmed) were off, Shaw had them turned back on without the actors' or director's knowledge, according to THR. Weaving is now reportedly leaving the show due to both incidences.
Co-star Rosie O'Donnell also allegedly reported the troublesome set to Showtime and Shaw's fellow executive producer Scott King. While O'Donnell personally did not clash with Shaw, she shared concerns about the treatment of Weaving on-set, according to THR.
Amidst the nude scene controversy, Shaw has also been accused of separating her writing staff by race. Multiple writers reportedly have sent complaints to the Writers Guild of America, which is encouraging the staffers to file formal complaints with the production, according to THR. Showtime and ABC Signature Studios, which produces the series, did not return TV Guide's requests for comment.
SMILF Is Giving Off Serious Outlander and Westworld Vibes in Season 2
Shaw delivered the following statement to The Hollywood Reporter about the allegations.
"I work daily to create an environment in which everyone should feel safe, and in which I can continue to grow as a leader and manager. I am now and always have been open to hearing and addressing all concerns and issues that fall within my control. It pains me to learn that anyone felt uncomfortable on my set. I sincerely hope we can work together to resolve any and all issues, as I am committed to creating a workplace in which all people feel safe and heard."
The second season of SMILF is set to premiere Sunday, Jan. 20 at 10:30/9:30c on Showtime.
(Disclosure: TV Guide is owned by CBS, Showtime's parent company.)
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