Jesse Williams ‘Not Down About’ Nude Video Leak From ‘Take Me Out’ Broadway Performance

Jesse Williams has been performing in an acclaimed Broadway revival of the play Take Me Out by Richard Greenberg. Williams, who just was nominated for a Tony Award for the role, had his privacy violated one show night when an audience member leaked video of a shower scene in the play where Williams appears nude.

Williams told reporters, “I’m not down about it,” when asked about the leak. “Our job is to go out there every night, no matter what.” The plot of the show primarily takes place in a baseball locker room, as Williams’ character is a baseball player dealing with the ramifications of coming out as gay to his teammates. Given the play’s setting, it features an all-male cast with actors frequently appearing nude in the show.

The Actors’ Equity Association, a union representing theater actors and stage managers, condemned the leak and called it “a violation that impedes on our collective ability to tell stories with boldness and bravery.”

Even though he didn’t let himself be bothered by the situation, Williams also said in his interview, “consent is important, I thought. So, let’s keep that in mind universally.” He also stated appreciation for the support he has received by saying, “it’s wonderful to see a community push back and make clear what we do stand for, what we don’t.”

The show’s theater, Second Stage Theater, has said that it will be increasing security staff in the wake of the incident, and will additionally require audience members to place their phones in locked pouches for the duration of the performance. You can watch Williams’ full comments below.

The Take Me Out revival also stars Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Patrick J. Adams, Michael Oberholtzer and Brandon L. Dirden.