With the world on pause during the COVID-19 pandemic, GayVN caught up with some talent in front of and behind the camera to see how they were handling the time off—and what they see ahead for their industry and community. In this installment, we chatted with DeAngelo Jackson, just a few months removed from his GayVN Award win for Best Actor. DeAngelo continues to have an impressive year, including two appearances in Men.com’s highly anticipated Tom of Finland project. He chatted with us from his home in Florida.
BJ: In general, how do you think the people in your area are exhibiting safe behaviors?
DJ: People in my area are taking it seriously. Mostly everyone is wearing a mask when out.
How have you personally been adjusting during COVID-19? How has life changed for you and your loved ones? What have been the biggest adjustments?
It’s been a little difficult honestly. I had several scenes lined up for filming, so to go from being booked and busy to nothing at all has taken some adjustment.
How has life changed for you and your loved ones?
No one is working. It’s given me the opportunity to see them more, which is nice.
What have been the biggest adjustments?
The biggest adjustment for me is not being as productive as I normally am.
What has been the hardest thing for you, and what do you miss the most?
Not being able to go to the gym has been really difficult. I hate working out at home. I find it boring, so I have been very creative in finding new ways to stay motivated on my fitness journey.
When do you think the porn industry can get back to creating content, and how will this affect how things are done in the near-term and longer-term? (testing, travel, etc.)
Until the economy opens back up, we as performers will have to do solo work. I have several scenes lined up that haven’t been released yet [some have since this interview, including his well-received Men.com “Top of the Fair Ass Wheel” threeway with Ty Mitchell and Joey Mills], so I’m in good shape as far as keeping my image out there. However, I am still being creative in ways of keeping my name and brand relevant.
How can performers on platforms like JustFor.Fans and OnlyFans get creative during this time and still provide new content?
I think the fans would love to see their favorite performers as who there are behind the scenes. Mix it up with at-home workouts, nude possibly. Doing a live Q&A. Cooking your favorite dish. The fans just want to see you as you are normally when not performing.
I’ve seen firsthand how many gay men on the hookup aps don’t seem to care about social distancing and are more than ready to still hook up with a stranger. How do you feel about that, and what would you say to them?
I think that’s totally irresponsible, selfish and dangerous. I would tell them invest in a sex toy it they’re tired of jerking off.
Realistically, how long do you think it will be until gay men can feel comfortable hooking up on the apps?
I’ve personally always been a little skittish when it came to those hookup apps. I think a lot of guys still don’t take COVID-19 seriously and will be hooking up again on a regular basis by summer.
Talk about the importance of porn during this time for people, who need safe ways to get off, relieve stress, etc. Now more than ever it seems porn is proving how much of a purpose it has.
If anything, this should prove to the masses how important sex workers are. We provide an important service and escapism.
What lessons about life should this pandemic be teaching us?
Don’t take your source of income for granted. If anything, try to have multiple sources of income. I look forward to the day I can see my family and friends again and go out for brunch and bottomless mimosas!
