Performer Faces Online Harassment After Unwanted Video Exposure

The story of performer Couvreur highlights the complexities of digital privacy and the impact of online harassment. After receiving numerous emails inquiring about a video of her, she discovered that a short clip from her show, The Sensemaker, had been circulated on adult websites without her consent. The video, which included a scene depicting nudity, was initially shared online during the COVID-19 pandemic when many artists made their work available for free.

Couvreur expressed her surprise at the unexpected interest in the clip, remarking, “I didn’t even fathom that some people would be interested in that scene in a sexual way.” She pointed out that the video misrepresents her work, which aims to evoke empathy rather than objectification.

As the emails continued, Couvreur grew increasingly frustrated. “I don’t really care that they saw me naked… but what most upset me was that the naked scene depicts an abuse,” she explained. By the time the scene occurs in the performance, audiences have had the opportunity to connect with her character on an emotional level.

The unwanted attention felt like an invasion of her privacy, leading Couvreur to feel as though her identity was being stolen. “What’s also like really scary is how much they know about me,” she said, noting that some individuals created profiles on naked celebrity websites using her personal information. This experience heightened her discomfort in public situations, particularly when compliments from men were often followed by requests for the video.

In response to the spread of the video, Couvreur took action to have it removed. “They made me look like I was the crazy one,” she stated, reflecting on the challenges she faced. The only effective method she found to remove the videos was through copyright claims, as many of the websites hosting the content were based in the United States and were wary of potential lawsuits.

Despite the difficulties she faced, Couvreur has channeled her experiences into her new show, Embarrassed Naked Female. This lecture-performance combines her journey with audience engagement, allowing her to confront the narratives created about her online. “It’s really nice to hear an entire audience laugh at them,” she remarked, emphasizing her desire to not only critique but also analyze the situation.

The new performance aims to address broader topics including consent, digital image use, and male sexuality. Couvreur recognizes the potential backlash from her work but believes that it is necessary to speak out. “If you want your safety, don’t talk. If you want other people’s safety, you need to talk,” she stated, advocating for awareness of the phenomenon of online harassment.

She encourages other performers to continue expressing themselves authentically, despite the risks associated with public exposure. “Don’t let the creepers win. This is your work and your body and your image,” she asserted.

Couvreur’s new show has received recognition, winning the Virtuoso Award at the Stockholm Fringe Festival in 2025 and the Hot Potato Award at the Gothenburg Fringe the same year. “I feel great about the fact that I made this unfortunate event into something that can bring people joy,” she stated.

She is set to perform Embarrassed Naked Female at the New Athenaeum Theatre from March 19-21, 2025, alongside performances of The Sensemaker. As she travels through festivals, Couvreur hopes to raise awareness and spark conversations about the challenges performers face in the digital age.

For those seeking advice on online safety, Couvreur recommends visiting Netsafe.org.nz or contacting them at [email protected].