Wrapping up the Model Spotlight Series for Black History Month is Isiah Maxwell. Known for his humility and professionalism, Isiah has leveraged his likeability on set to work with several of the biggest production companies in the industry. Most recently, he won an award for Performer of the Year at AVN 2024. It is no wonder why he has accumulated over 892 million video views on Pornhub. Isiah told us about his origins and inspirations, the people who helped shape him early on, his advice for other BIPOC Performers, and more.
Who were the adult content creators that inspired you to start? Who are the creators that inspire you to keep going?
The person who deserves the credit for getting the ball rolling on my content creator side is Karma Rx. Before her I was just filming for studios and did not carve out time to film my own content. She helped settle me down and discover the value of doing it myself. I am inspired by today's creators such as Kazumi, Nicole Doshi and Keiran Lee.
It is well known that you are humble and professional on set and your Co-Performers enjoy working with you. What kind of philosophy do you bring to a shoot and how has that helped your career?
I honestly provide a safe space for anyone to be themselves. I do not bring any judgement to my sets, and it is all about my partners feeling good about what they are doing.
You have worked with many leading production companies, including Brazzers, Bang Bros, and more. At what point in your career did you say, “I’ve made it!”?
My 'I made it' moment was after working with Lisa Ann for the first time. I was anxious and very new then. She had a major presence, and she did not downplay it. Through our scene, she took me under her wing, and was the one that got me hired by Brazzers and many other companies. Her guidance plays a major factor in how I work today.
You have over 892 million video views on Pornhub. What are some marketing strategies you have used that contributed to your success?
I let my fans spread the news like wildfire. I listen to what they comment on and adjust for them. Without saying it out loud, the fans pick up on the changes and cheer me on for it.
What advice can you give to other Performers to help them establish boundaries? What advice would you give to sex workers who are just starting out?
Be careful of stretching yourself thin by trying to do everything at once. Save up your money during your initial run so when things slow down, you are doing the work that you love and not because you need the check.
In a world of new emerging talent, how do you make sure to stand out? How does brand marketing play a role in your growth strategy?
You stand out by being yourself. In today's world, there are so many 'teams' and 'cliques,' so you can stand out by being yourself. People will like you for you and not because you are on a team or group. It is more genuine.
What kind of activities do you enjoy doing? Any hobbies, passions, or causes you want to tell us about?
I am a big hiker and love being in nature. I am also into fitness and being in the gym because it surrounds me with goal-minded individuals. I love my dogs and am an animal person in general. I do not mind pet sitting for friends!
Who are some Black Performers we should all have on our radar?
Lily Starfire, Willow Ryder, Lawson Jones, Damion Dayski, and Hollywood Cash.
How do the experiences of male BIPOC sex workers differ from those of female and Trans sex workers?
BIPOC males are presented with an abundance of opportunities because of the way we are utilized in the Interracial category. Female and Trans sex workers must fight harder for opportunities, which is why you see so many black male performers versus the others.
Our Trust & Safety protocols are constantly evolving at Pornhub. Models are now required to get their Co-Performer IDs approved before new videos featuring them can be published. Tell us what this means to you and the industry at large.
It adds a layer of trust between the creator and consumer. It also shows responsibility between the creators which is needed in the eyes of the regulators.
What are some steps studios, platforms, and sex workers can make to help shape the industry in positive ways and dismantle racism?
Hire BIPOC performers for your project. Offer work to those who will take advantage of an opportunity. There are a couple of companies who do it consistently. But notice how I said a couple and not many.
How has the industry improved in terms of how Black Performers are being represented?
Seeing us in features is a big help. Winning performer of the year, like Kira Noir did at AVN 2023, helps because we know how hard we work. Passing down the opportunity is a major factor in how I contribute to the community. Once I open a door or one is open for me, I make sure to help someone walk through it too.
Tell us about your career goals; what would you like to accomplish in the next year?
This year I want to build up my brands. I want people to hear my name and associate it with the greats. I also want to continue to provide a safe space for my co-workers so whenever they see my name on a call sheet, they know it is going to be a good day.
Congratulations to Isiah Maxwell for winning Male Performer of the Year at AVN! If you hope to be as successful as him, you can start by joining our Model Program and becoming a content creator! Learn more about it here.
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