From an early age, Gaby Hoffmann has carved out a niche for herself with roles she describes as “punchy” and “precocious.” Who could forget her as Maizy in one of John Candy’s comedy classics, Uncle Buck, or Jessica in one of the best rom-coms, Sleepless in Seattle? Of course, in recent years, she's become more well-known for her break-out performances in such dramas as Jenny Slate’s Obvious Child and one of the most explicit shows on HBO, Girls. However, one thing has remained consistent: Hoffmann has continued to take on roles that allow her to express her unique sense of freedom and authenticity. In a recent interview, the former Transparent star opened up about why she has no problem baring it all for nude scenes.
Currently starring alongside Benedict Cumberbatch in the Netflix miniseries Eric, set in 1980s New York City, the actress plays a mother whose son has gone missing. This role has prompted her to reflect on her career choices, including her comfort with going au naturel. Ms. Hoffmann explained to The Independent that she’s always been very comfortable in her skin. In her words:
I’ve always been very comfortable being naked. So long as a woman is not being made to feel uncomfortable or isn’t being exploited, it shouldn’t be a big deal.
Her openness extends beyond her roles, as she frequently challenges societal norms and double standards. She expressed her surprise at the ongoing controversy surrounding stripping down to the buff in media, especially when compared to the acceptance of graphic violence. She continued:
I’m always shocked that nudity is such a big topic when it seems like in every other film, someone gets their head blown off. Do we really need to talk about tits and vaginas? Let’s talk about AK47s, pistols, and the kind of absolutely revolting violence that is not just normal, but expected.
Gaby Hoffmann’s viewpoint challenges how we think and what we consider acceptable and normal in entertainment. The actress added:
I mean, I can barely watch somebody get punched, but a breast? That’s beautiful.
The Little Death actress makes some compelling points. While Hollywood has a long history of nudity in film, it's well-known that America has always been somewhat prudish about the naked human body. Nudity in cinema has remained a taboo topic, which the 2020 documentary Skin: A History of Nudity in the Movies explores in depth. This documentary does an incredible job of diving into the long and complicated history of how films have teased audiences for over a century.
Of course, the decision to bare it all is a profoundly personal one. Many actors and actresses, with Julia Roberts being one of them, have openly shared their reasons for avoiding scenes that require disrobing. On the other hand, Emma Thompson and others are challenging ageism in Hollywood by confidently showing off their skin even past the age of 60.
In a world where on-screen violence often goes unquestioned, Gaby Hoffmann’s fearless approach to being naked serves as a refreshing perspective. Her willingness to challenge societal norms and embrace her natural self highlights her dedication to authenticity in storytelling.
Her latest work in the miniseries Eric is available for streaming with a Netflix subscription. Be sure to check the 2024 Netflix schedule to see what other shows (and movies) are headed to the platform soon.
