Not a lot of people in adult today remember George Payne, though he was one of the more recognizable stars of the golden age of adult film in New York—and now, the Golden Age Appreciation Fund is looking for industry members to help him.
After making his debut in Jerry Douglas' seminal gay porn film The Back Row (1973), George went on to star in over 180 adult films, both gay and straight, until his retirement from hardcore in 1988, though he continued in mainly non-sex/BDSM roles through 1997. He appeared in some of the genre's most famous movies including Tigresses and Other Man-Eaters, Blonde Ambition, American Desire, Wanda Whips Wall Street, Night Hunger, Public Affairs and Puss 'n Boots, working with many of that era's best directors and actresses along the way.
In addition to his short BDSM career, Payne is also well-remembered for his intense and manic portrayals of psychopaths in a series of roughies including 1982's The Story of Prunella and 1983's Oriental Techniques in Pain and Pleasure.
Payne met his wife Diane over 30 years ago when she was a mainstream film industry casting agent. They were married shortly afterwards and lived an apartment in Queens. Both worked hard, were reliable, and were well-liked in the industry.
Ashley West of The Rialto Report met Payne in 2005 when the former actor was working as a cleaner at a gym in Queens. Retired from films, Payne was exercising there every day and keen to develop a fitness video for senior citizens.
Despite his on-screen "crazy" persona, many who knew him would describe Payne is one of the most gentle people you could hope to meet; thoughtful, polite and considerate; never forgets anyone's birthday—and prefers to enquire about others' well-being rather than talk about himself.
In late 2014, however, the Paynes were evicted after being unable to afford their rent, and were forced to move into a shelter. It was a unpleasant experience which became even more difficult when Diane underwent surgery for breast cancer. She required additional procedures at the beginning of 2015 and with the struggles to pay for Diane's medication, they moved down to Florida seeking a lower cost of living.
Staying with friends before moving to temporary housing, life has remained tough as Payne stopped working to spend his time with his wife as they struggle to pay for her regular medication. The two are seeking more permanent accommodations and are keen to move back to New York—but with their limited funds, the options seem slim.
It was then that the Golden Age Appreciation Fund, established in 2014, took up Payne's cause, believing that even though he is too proud to ask for help himself, he's more than worthy of being the current focus of the group's current fundraising efforts to help he and his wife get back on their feet. The fund's goal is to raise enough money for a deposit, so that the couple can sign a proper lease and secure their immediate future.
For more information on the career of George Payne, check out his listing on the Internet Adult Film Database and listen to his interview podcast available on The Rialto Report website.
The "Help George Payne" fundraiser is active through July 17. For more information and donation links, please visit The Golden Age Appreciation Fund.
