As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to put the world on hold, 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 Nic Sahara, who in January won GayVN Awards for Best Newcomer and Best Group Scene, and who recently provided a free live show for fans as part of the Falcon Studios Group live show series during quarantine. Nic has also had to go through more than most of us can even imagine…
BJ: Where are you right now? In general, how do you think the people in your area are exhibiting safe behaviors?
NS: I am currently at my house in the L.A. area. I find that people are for the most part doing their part to help. Some people, I can say that they need to take a hard look at the decisions that they make and possibly adjust accordingly. But just because my moral compass tells me to do something does not make it right for everyone; some people find that what they are doing is perfectly acceptable, and while I may not agree, I feel like they are all entitled to have their own opinion.
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?
Yes, it has. We lost my father due to COVID-19 complications. I think that the biggest change is that I always feel like I want to call him, but then I have to realize that there won’t be anyone there to pick up the phone.
What has been the hardest thing for you, and what do you miss the most?
Not being able to be with my family during this really hard time. I have also found out who is actually there for me as friends. I feel like there are so many people that want so much from me, and they use the excuse that I am their friend to get what they want—but when push comes to shove and you need to have them there the most, they are just not there.
How have you had to adjust your exercise routine? How creative have you had to get?
I have had to get really creative with keeping fit, using what I have and doing things around the house to keep my body moving. Without weights it’s a bit more difficult, but we make do with what we have.
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?
I hope to get back to working on set soon. The sooner the better, really. But to be honest, I just want people to remain safe. The sooner that people realize that they need to be safe in these conditions, the sooner that it will all be over.
How can performers on fan site platforms get creative during this time and still provide new content?
I think it’s way more difficult to do when you are single and in isolation by yourself, because there are only so many times that you can see a toy being used. Sure, you can order new toys, but in the end, you have to just be patient and think of more bold things to do. I think I would probably channel my inner Pierce Paris and come up with some creative ways to use what you have around the house to shock people. Just make sure you’re being safe about it.
I’ve seen firsthand how many gay men on the hookup apps 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?
Oh, I am the wrong person to ask about this… I have a very low tolerance for stupid people. I feel like if they are willing to put themselves at risk and others at risk, they do not need to be anywhere—or in any way involved—with me. I have always been super cautious, and now I have a very good reason to be super cautious. If they want to put their body at risk, then that’s up to them and nobody is stopping them, but I am going to remain healthy.
Realistically, how long do you think it will be until gay men can feel comfortable hooking up on the apps?
I think that it all depends on the person. For me, yes, I would definitely hook up with someone on the app if I felt comfortable and knowing that they are not hooking up with 15 guys prior to me. I feel like if it was someone I know or have hooked up with before and we are being equally as safe, then absolutely. Right now? Maybe not, but sure...maybe in the future.
Talk about the importance of porn during this time for people, who need safe ways to get off, relieve stress. Now more than ever, it seems porn is proving how much of a purpose it has.
We as performers have a very unique stance in today’s world I feel. We are actually providing a much-needed service in this pandemic as people are afraid to socialize and be close to someone. Imagine being single and isolated from your friends and sometimes family. No touching, no hooking up. What are you going to do? Porn it is! So, are we essential workers? I believe that we are. But we are being essential safely. I think that performers do not always get the recognition that they deserve.
What lessons about life should this pandemic be teaching us?
Be kind to one another; we are truly in this together. Also, don’t be a nasty bitch! Wash your hands—we learned this as children, there are signs everywhere in bathrooms. Yet some people ignore the writings on the walls (literally). Be there for the people that you know need you, even if you don’t know what to say. A simple text to see how they are holding up can go a long way.
