film
The secret lives of six body doubles: ‘They wanted Julia Roberts to have curvier legs’
What is it like to be Michael B Jordan’s twin, Andie MacDowell’s hands or Rachel Weisz’s hair? Some of Hollywood’s best stand-ins reveal all
TL;DR
- Body doubles are used in film and television for intimate scenes, specialized skills (like playing an instrument or driving), or when an actor is unavailable.
- Percy Bell served as Michael B. Jordan's twin in 'Sinners,' focusing on movement and character embodiment.
- Shelley Michelle famously doubled for Julia Roberts's legs in 'Pretty Woman' and performed intimate scenes, later insuring her legs for $1 million and founding her own agency.
- Philip Fortenberry played Michael Douglas's hands on the piano in 'Behind the Candelabra,' requiring him to match the actor's appearance and timing.
- Jacqueline Leventhal doubled for Rachel Weisz's hair and driving in 'Vladimir' due to Weisz not having a license in Toronto.
- Flick Miles, as a child, was Emma Watson's "shadow Hermione" in the Harry Potter films, her face even appearing in 'Chamber of Secrets' when Watson had an allergic reaction.
- Elizabeth Barbour, a lawyer, worked as a hand model for Andie MacDowell's L'Oréal advertisements and Isabella Rossellini for Lancôme.
- Many doubles find satisfaction in facilitating the actor's performance and being part of successful projects, though some have faced challenges like discomfort on set or a lack of recognition.