Meg Ryan coached for When Harry Met Sally orgasm scene by male director Rob Reiner
Ryan's first nervous attempts at the famous movie scene were a 'little tepid'
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Meg Ryan’s fake orgasm in Eighties rom-com When Harry Met Sally is among the most memorable movie scenes ever. But, as it turns out, the actress enlisted help faking female pleasure - from a man.
Scroll to watch video clip
Director Rob Reiner has revealed that Ryan was “nervous” on set in front of extras and crew members. So, he stepped in to give her tips on how to do a realistic impression of sexual climax.
When Harry insists that no woman has ever had to fake enjoyment with him, Sally sets out to prove that he wouldn’t be able to tell the difference, in the middle of a packed diner.
“The first few times we did it, (Ryan) did it kind of weak,” Reiner told The Huffington Post. “It was a little tepid. I said: ‘Look, let me show you want I want’ after a few takes that weren’t so good.
“I sat down opposite Billy (Crystal, who played Harry) and I’m sitting there and I’m pounding the table and going yes, yes, yes - I’m doing the whole thing. Meg then did way better.”
Reiner then felt embarrassed as he remembered that his mother was present during the rehearsal. It was she whom uttered the famous line: ‘I’ll have what she’s having’.
The classic 1989 movie that asked the timeless question - can men and women really ever just be best friends? - will celebrate its 25th anniversary on 14 July.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments