Since its launch in 2004, Helix Studios has kept up its reputation as a top twink genre company, as evidenced by its numerous nominations in the 2018 GayVN Awards. And with the addition of a new exclusive, Angel Rivera, it’s clear the gay adult studio intends to keep making waves.
A 5-foot-7-inch, 134-pound “twunk,” Rivera is only just getting started in the biz, but he has already made his debut in a scene on the Helix website. Marc of COPBlog interviewed the brown-haired, green-eyed performer for AVN, and got him talking about about his origins, working relationships and hopes for the future.
AVN: Let's get the basics out of the way. How old are you and where are you from?
Angel Rivera: I'm 20 years old. I'm from Austin, Texas.
Can you describe the moment in which you first realized you were interested in the adult industry? What made you decide to take the leap?
I was 18 years old, living in a small town in Texas. I was so horny at that age and I had a Helix Studios membership, so I decided I should apply. At first, it was just a joke. I didn’t think they’d want me to model, but they called me back. It wasn’t until a few months ago that I called Helix back and took it seriously. I guess I needed to let the idea marinate for a few years. LOL.
Judging from your physique, it seems you spend a good amount of time in the gym. Do you have any specific body goals in mind?
It varies. Sometimes, I feel too small and I’ll change my diet and workouts to swell up and get stronger. Sometimes, I feel too heavy and I’ll lose weight to be leaner and better looking. Regardless, though, I try and work out five to six times a week. Weights only. No cardio! LOL.
So, based on what you've just told me, obviously you applied directly to Helix. What is your impression of the company after having worked for them? Did they immediately offer to make you an exclusive?
I did a few videos beforehand. They offered me an exclusive contract after the last one. I guess they were impressed with how I performed, but first I give all the credit to Casey Roman, Alex Roman and everyone in the Helix family. From ownership, corporate workers, to the janitors, everyone is friendly and inviting.
A great deal of the business now is social media driven. How did you manage to garner more than 14,000 followers on Twitter before you had even debuted in a solo scene?
It’s all thanks to the fans. If a person can learn to market themselves and sell themselves as a commodity alongside with being a genuine and honest person, then people can gravitate toward you easier. Plus, it helps when the other models are kind enough to get your name out there. I love my fans.
There has recently been a lot of chatter about the lack of diversity in the gay adult industry and performers of color not getting the same advantages. Do you have any perspectives on this topic?
None. People who watch porn are adults, and just like every human being they have their preferences. Whether you’re gay or straight, there are specific things that turn you on.
The title "porn star" is tossed around a great deal to varying degrees. What do you feel makes a true porn star? Is it a target point you wish to seek, or are you simply just going with the flow and come what may?
I believe to be considered a porn star you must be relevant for some time. Brent Corrigan, for example, is still as relevant as he was when I was younger. I want to be big in anything I do. Be the best or don’t try.
Is there anyone in the industry you would like to work with who isn't on the roster at Helix? Any fantasies of future scenes you would like to be involved with while you have the chance?
Not too much. I feel like I want to be relevant because my videos are good and not because someone well known is in them. And as for fantasies, there are so many I would like to do, but I’ll leave that to the Helix team.
A regular gym regimen clearly keeps you busy day to day, but you have also been open on social media about working in the fast food industry. How important is a solid work ethic to you?
I feel like being a blue-collar worker keeps me humble. No matter what I do in life I will always remember making $9 an hour and feeling like it’s not enough. I love blue-collar workers because we, for the most part, are just kind, hardworking people who love one another.
What are some of your interests and aspirations outside of working in porn? Where do you see yourself five to ten years down the road?
Working out. School. Family. That's what my world revolves around. Five to ten years down the road? I want to be many things, but the biggest is owning my own company and close to being retired.
Any regrets about doing this kind of entertainment?
None. Live life honest and free!
Any final words, comments or thoughts you would like to share? I'm sure Helix has plenty in store for you. The fans have gone wild about your presence so far.
Just thank you to everyone who took the time to read this and thank you for interviewing me so early on in my career.
Follow Angel Rivera on Twitter: @AngelRiveraXXX.
Marc is the creator of the COPBlog. Find his site at ChroniclesOfPorniaBlog.com and follow on Twitter: @copblog.
Photo credits: Alex Roman of Helix Studios
