John Cena Wore 'Modesty Garment' at Oscars to Present Best Costume Design Award

On Sunday, March 10, 2024, the audience at the Oscars may have believed they saw John Cena bare it all as he graced the stage to present the award for best costume design. However, a closer look revealed that Cena was, in fact, not completely nude.

"Modesty Garment" Unveiled

Behind the strategically placed envelope that Cena held, there was a well-concealed "modesty garment" designed to provide coverage for performers in scenes that call for the illusion of nudity. These garments, often made from repurposed materials such as yoga mats and leftover costume fabrics, have become essential in creating a safe and secure environment for actors during vulnerable moments on set. The use of such garments has gained prominence, especially with the emergence of intimacy coordinators who oversee scenes involving nudity or simulated sex, ensuring the well-being and comfort of the actors.

The Role of Intimacy Coordinators

Intimacy coordinators play a crucial role in safeguarding the dignity of performers by liaising between actors and production staff. Their involvement has led to the development of more specialized and tailored modesty garments to meet the specific needs of actors during sensitive scenes.

Rise of Specialized Garment Companies

The demand for specialized modesty garments has given rise to companies like Intimask in the U.K. and The Modesty Shop in Canada, which exclusively design garments to support actors in moments of near-nudity. Additionally, U.S.-based Covvier offers a range of products, including strapless, adhesive thongs and padded pouches, to cater to the unique requirements of performers.

Challenges and Innovations

Despite their minimal coverage and reduced fabric usage, modesty garments can come with a hefty price tag due to the specialized nature of the products and the nascent stage of the industry. For instance, a "padded pouch" similar to the one worn by Cena is priced at $62. However, it is anticipated that as the market matures, the prices of these professional garments will become more accessible, ensuring the provision of high-quality fabrics for the protection and care actors need in such scenes.

Future Trends

As the industry continues to evolve, it is expected that the market for modesty garments will expand, offering a wider range of options to cater to the diverse needs of performers, ultimately enhancing their comfort and confidence during on-screen portrayals.