CYBERSPACE—Kink.com and veteran director JohnPaul The Pope today unveil the debut episode of new limited series Tainted Love, a seven-part tale of BDSM-infused romance.
With 2022 AVN Awards Trophy Girl April Olsen and Male Performer of the Year nominee Quinton James in the female and male leads, respectively, Tainted Love co-stars Gia Derza, Katie Kush, Brooke Johnson, Tommy Pistol, Derrick Pierce and David Lee.
The production "follows two best friends [Olsen and James] through a day of storytelling, and self discovery through BDSM," The Pope explained to AVN. "It is very much a love story that unfolds in front of the camera that encapsulates what real BDSM is, in a very relatable way. It is very story driven with lots of dialogue, which isn't what I usually shoot, but this was the story that I needed to write apparently."
In episode one, "The Switch," Olsen regales James with the tale of a spicy sexual session with Lee.
"I was touched when JP approached me with this project," Olsen said. "I can relate to my character’s curiosity about the world of BDSM, and how it can seem intimidating to try for yourself. Not everyone can pop into a Kink studio and play with all the fun crops, whips and cattle prods with a professional Dom on standby—most often, we’re experimenting in the comfort of our own bedrooms! I felt this series did a beautiful job depicting what BDSM can look like for the everyday, curious couple, and I really hope it inspires others to pick up a few silk scarves the next time they’re feeling freaky."
Added James, "Testing my comfort levels is something I like, chemistry and passion is something I love, acting and being natural is what I thrive on. This feature did all that! What an amazing experience—I'm excited to see the final result."
Derrick Pierce, who plays a Dom to Olsen in episode two, "High Protocol"—releasing March 29—commented, “Working on a project like this is out of the norm because of the usual content. It’s really amazing to be able to bring our niche so close into the fold of the title 'mainstream.' I love the vision of bridging the gap between those who just aren’t familiar with those who live and die by the Kink brand. The level of professionalism and originality that JP brings to the set is beyond refreshing!”
Derrick Pierce, April Olsen
Reigning AVN Best Actor (three times over) Tommy Pistol faces off with Olsen in episode three, "Gamer Incubus," out April 5. "I loved working on Tainted Love," Pistol said. "I've been working with JohnPaul The Pope for years in BDSM scenes but never really a narrative. Derelict and Deception [two of The Pope's previous Kink features] were both so well received. I was genuinely excited when JP told me he wrote a part for me. It was a nice change up, finally acting for him and finally working with the gorgeously talented April Olsen. I thought our dialogue was adorably funny together and the sex scene was intense. Looking forward to seeing how all of it turns out."
Offered Brooke Johnson, who gets paired with James in episode 4, "The Submissive," which arrives April 12, "I really love the story for Tainted Love because it really shows the different dynamics of relationships when it comes to BDSM. Being kinky isn’t a blanket term and BDSM isn’t a one size fits all situation. It doesn’t mean that there can’t be passion or enjoyment while exploring different dynamics, but when you’re looking for a kinky partner that fits into everything that you are looking for it can be daunting. JP really captured the difficulties that BDSM lifestylers go through to get that perfect balanced partner of shared kinks and protocol. I was extremely honored to be asked to perform in this series and I’m beyond excited to see the completed series!"
Quinton James, Brooke Johnson
Katie Kush, who also takes on James as the titular character of episode 5, "The Brat," dropping April 19, echoed, “I loved the story, because it shows the wonderful dynamic of the kink world and a glimpse of what it's like to be new to it. Quinton and I have worked a lot together but never before in a way of dominance and submission. Creating this story was intriguing, because we truly got to play out our roles and get a feel for how a new dom and brat coming together would function. It was everything I feel some real life experiences are like in the kink world and it was an honor to be a part of it.”
AVN Award winner Gia Derza takes her turn with James in episode 6, "The Succubus," going live April 26. Enthused the powerhouse starlet, “I had so much fun shooting with Quinton and JP. It was cool to play a character that had a similar vibe to my own. She is the more outgoing excited sub, I enjoyed getting to be eager to please and also unable to contain myself at the same time. Working with JP is always a pleasure.”
Tainted Love reaches its finale May 3 with the release of closing episode "The Decision," at last pairing Olsen and James.
A dedicated page for the series has been launched here, offering episode trailers, character profiles and more. A new episode will go live every Tuesday on the series page until the full production has rolled out.
Summed up Olsen, "It was an incredible project to be a part of, and I am so grateful JP included me to help showcase Kink’s softer side.”
