March 31st is Transgender Day of Visibility, a day dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the resilience and accomplishments of the trans community. Pornhub strives to be a place where trans Models can thrive, and one Model in particular has done just that, with an impressive track record of awards to back it. Today, we’re shining the spotlight on Aubrey Kate, the winner for Most Popular Trans Female Performer at the 4th Annual Pornhub Awards.
Tell us about your start in the industry – why do you think you kept getting calls to perform and declining them? What made you change your mind?
I started out web camming because escorting was a little scary. I got popular on camera super fast but It was kind of boring to me. I needed the real thing. I kept getting calls but I was in a relationship and didn’t know how I would tell my family. Eventually they called so many times and I was newly single, so I just ended up saying 'fuck it!" and did it! It was something that I was always interested in. I just didn’t think I was pretty or cool enough or have a nice enough body at the beginning.
What did you find difficult when starting out? Was there anything that was surprisingly easy?
I think the hardest thing about starting out for me was that I didn’t know the industry. I didn’t know any trans girls in porn. Social media was around but not like it is now. The modeling and being a “pretty girl” was something that always came natural to me.
How do you think your experiences as a trans performer in this industry differs from that of a cisgender performer?
I think I have a lot of differences as a trans performer in the industry. There are no top agencies that really represent trans models. I have asked a few of the best and they just told me that I wouldn’t make them enough money and that the trans market is simply just not big enough.
How did you get involved in fashion modeling? Tell us more about the role fashion plays in your life.
I actually got scouted when I was 4 by Wilhelmina Models. I ended up doing a lot of print work, then ended up moving over to LA Models. I loved doing photo shoots and going on auditions. School was hell for me so doing this was my escape. I think that is why I love my job so much. It’s something I enjoy, and in some strange way it's therapy for me.
Courtesy of Aubrey Kate
Is Aubrey Kate a character you play or are you one in the same? How are you different/similar?
Aubrey Kate is definitely me. I am super glam! I love fashion, I love nice things and I work my ass off. Literally! I love sucking cock. I love to eat Ass. But I would say, I’m way more picky in real life.
Many regard you as the face of trans porn – How does that make you feel? What do you accredit your success to?
I think trans porn is so special because there's so many different trans performers and so much variety to it. So many girls including myself do a full transition process on camera. I have had a few surgeries in my career and it’s almost like a diary of my progress in my trans journey. It’s like me growing up online getting fucked.
What is something that makes you feel proud of the work you do? What has been your proudest accomplishment to date?
I'm proud that I am giving myself the life I’ve always wanted and being able to choose what I want to do. I don’t think people understand that I started at the bottom just like everyone else. When I started, I was doing 2-3 shoots a day for over two weeks. I worked every shoot I was offered, I was always on time and had my own wardrobe. I would spend all my money on shoes and clothes because I wanted to be different than the normal costume and role play looks. So getting this far and still being recognized just makes me want to keep pushing. I think there is a lot to come for the trans porn community!
What’s next for Aubrey Kate? Do you have any specific goals for the future?
I still plan on filming for myself for a long time. I was always considered directing but I’m not sure if that is something I would want to do full time. I love interior design and decorating, so I think that's something I definetly want to get into.
Courtesy of Aubrey Kate
Are there any misconceptions about yourself, trans performers or the industry you’d like to debunk?
I think everyone thinks we are "dirty" but we are just like every other human. We take the same tests. We just want to be accepted.
Do you have any advice for new Models in the industry? Any advice for trans Models specifically who are just starting out?
The only advice I can give is be you! Don’t do something because of someone you want to be. You will never be them. You are you. So stand out and be different!
The last 2 years have been rather tumultuous for performers. Was there anything you learnt about yourself in this time?
These last two years I’ve learned that it’s OK to be alone I don’t need a boyfriend. I am happy with myself. I would like a partner but I know that I have a lot going for myself and they need to be special!
How does being a trans Model make you feel empowered?
Breaking the mold and becoming the first trans contract star for Evil was one of the most amazing feelings.
Keep up with Aubrey Kate on Instagram: OfficialAubreyKate and Twitter: AubreyKateXXX
We'd like to remind our Models and users alike that they are never alone in this community. We have formed partnerships with resources like Pineapple Support, a free to use therapy center for all members of the sex work community. We encourage you to contact Pineapple Support and speak to qualified professionals if you are experiencing feelings of uncertainty. You can also find resources on wellness for all genders and body types at our Sexual Wellness Center. While we use this opportunity to shed light on and reflect on the experiences of gender non-conforming performers, it is equally important to celebrate the power and resilience of the trans community, today and everyday.
Comments