When Models Move On

Imagine working a job until retirement, celebrating decades with the same company. In the porn world, it is rare—if not inconceivable—that a model makes a long-term career filming. I’m not referencing time with a particular studio, but a tenure in the industry at all. I’m lucky to work for an owner who values employing models in a multitude of ways, many of which don’t place them solely in front of the camera.

Porn-stardom isn’t for everyone though. Since the average age of a Helix Studios model is approximately twenty years old, it’s to be expected that there would be a certain amount of movement and exploration in their journeys. The decisions people make at eighteen don’t necessarily reflect their priorities at twenty-five. School, relationships, and career prospects may take the front seat, pushing starring in scenes to the back, and that’s okay! Life cycles and people’s value on certain aspects of their lives shift. There is no fault in moving on, even if it’s from one studio to another.

Though fans may speculate why a model would make the choice to retire or work with another brand, the true reasons are often less scandalous than the theories. Decision-making is often a group effort, with guidance given from partners, mentors, or family. Perhaps a boyfriend can no longer cope with their man filming with other people, or a model wants to move closer to home. Maybe a job opportunity outside of the industry makes filming too difficult or even risky. There are so many variables.

It’s also to be expected, however, that these changes would be difficult for fans. If a viewer is loyal to a studio and spends their hard-earned cash subscribing to that studio’s content, it could feel like a loss when their favorite model decides not to film or moves to a competitor. In the past, a model choosing not to film any longer meant they would fall from the public eye, and while that’s still a possibility, the rise of OF and cam sites gives models the ability to remain connected with their fans on their terms.

And in the end, gone for now doesn’t always mean gone forever. The same cycles that may have carried someone to a certain decision could bring them back to the place they started. As Keith Miller, owner of Helix Studios, says: “Every model has a first and last scene. I can tell you the date of the first, but I can’t ever tell you the last.”

Until next time.