HOLLYWOOD, Calif.—An “atmospheric river” of torrential rain could not dampen the enthusiasm of attendees at the 2026 AVN Awards Nominations Party, held at Hollywood’s historic Avalon last night for the second time since the event’s post-pandemic return last year. (photo galleries)
Neon signs and streetlights reflected in puddles on the nearby Hollywood Walk of Stars as a throng filled the theater lobby, coming in from the wet weather. Paparazzi lined spots along the velvet rope, as sparkly starlets twinkled under the bank of lights, dressed in eclectic evening attire.
The vibe was exuberant and edged with anticipation. 2026 GayVN Awards show co-host and versatile performer, Tony Genius said, “You love being in the presence of all these beautiful people, creating such joy on-camera. It’s amazing.”
Reigning 2025 AVN Best New Starlet Gal Ritchie, who sat near her agent Mark Spiegler, said she was feeling happy to be there. “The way people keep coming together—it’s so lovely. You have a great, lovely, fantastic industry,” she mused.
Stars and starlets, including Leana Lovings, watched images of themselves projected 15-feet high on the walls of the venue. She had cut a recent trip to Europe short, in order to return for the AVN Show promotional photo and video shoot.
“I’m so glad that the videos turned out so well,” Lovings gushed, looking forward to the Expo in Las Vegas. “I can’t wait to see myself on the billboards and pictures. It’s going to be so amazing—it’s humbling... I’m so ready to face AVN [in January] head on!”
Gonzo queen Jennifer White was there with her husband/producer Deacon. White would later earn a slew of nominations for scene work as well as her blockbuster showcase for Elegant Angel, Hollywood Whore: A Jennifer White Showcase Film.
“I put a lot into each and every project, but especially my showcase. That was my baby,” White said. Brazzers exclusive Angela White was nearby and said she might like to do a “White-on-White” scene with Jennifer, which Deacon heartily encouraged.
Trans star Kyaa Chimera, who organizes local Los Angeles industry-related events with Sunday Faire, was feeling the community energy and said, “This is like a family reunion, so it’s like getting to see all my favorite people—I think, in this digital age, as we continue to be more alienated through the Internet, people crave in-person connection.”
Snack Studios owner Mark Dallas said he was excited for the noms reveal, “I’m sure a lot of my friends will be nominated.”
Leather-clad Beau Donovan was there to support rock-climbing, outdoor sex-themed featurette “Arete,” which Donovan co-produced with Casey Calvert and Charlie Chase, for Erika Lust Films. Shot in the California desert, Donovan said, “I’m really excited to see if anything happens with it. It’s fine, if not—we had a blast making it.”
Calvert said she was proud of the featurette, as well as two other productions under her belt. “A film I made for Dorcel called Connection, and [a feature] for Adult Time called Escape From Camp Conversion. Bree Mills directed that with myself, and my team produced it—it’s been a great year,” she said.
Superstar Rhyheim Shabazz, the two-time and reigning, GayVN Performer of the Year, made a dashing appearance and commented on the importance of supporting the GayVNs in January for the gay side of the industry. With no expectations for nominations, the star said appreciatively, “You know what? I’ve had my experience in the industry, so anything else is extra.” He eventually earned ten GayVN nods last night.
Bearded veteran directors Ricky Greenwood and Alt Erotic’s Ivan, who will join forces on December 3 for a local toy drive, were both on-hand to cheer each other on. Ivan, who has sponsored the holiday event for several years was contacted by Greenwood to combine efforts for the fundraiser.
“I’m like ‘heck yeah’—I love Ricky Greenwood. That man’s amazing. He’s talented,” Ivan said. The Alt Erotic director ended up with nominations for Best Directing Portfolio—Varied Range and Best Non-Sex Role in his Ink Motel 6.
On the red carpet, Greenwood said, “I think we had a good year. We did good work and put out some good stuff, and I’m hoping that people will get the recognition they need.” Without making any bets, the veteran director said he was hopeful for two 2025 productions, Digital Playground’s Deadly Vows and personal favorite Dorcel’s Strip, starring Riley Reid and Tommy Pistol. Later, Greenwood was recognized in two categories, for Best Directing Portfolio—Narrative and Outstanding Directing—Individual Work for Deadly Vows.
Yhivi, who co-starred in Deadly Vows, also was on the red carpet despite what she confessed was a terrible case of cramps. “We only have a certain amount of opportunities to come together and reflect and celebrate all the hard work we put in, so I prioritize it,” she said.
Popular pro-am director Tad Pole said he’d had dinner before the party with a tableful of starlets including Alexa Chains, Madison Wilde, Lilith Grace, Eva Nyx and a girl named Natalie. “I hope I didn’t miss any other girls there,” he said. Pole eventually snagged noms for Best Niche Performer and Best Indie/Amateur Movie or Series.
Director Claudia Ross was there to support Wicked’s big summer production, Seth Gamble’s Once Upon a Time in The Valley, as well as a comedy she directed for Elegant Angel, titled Silver Linings. “It’s a cute little comedy,” Ross said. “I would love to get some love—and for everyone else, honestly, to be happy. Everyone is in a great mood and it feels lucky tonight.”
Long considered the “Oscars of Porn,” the 43rd AVN Awards show in January, presented by MyFreeCams, will be co-hosted by Brazzers exclusive star Abigaiil Morris and influential cam girl/creator ItsLo. Both were in their official roles last night, lighting up the stage to emcee the nominations presentation.
GayVN Awards show hosts, Men.com exclusive Drake Von and Genius, also took the podium to announce a short list of diverse categories, and official AVN Award Show trophy girls Ava Amira and Meagan Moore glittered in the spotlight as they addressed the excited audience.
In a rare appearance, AVN Hall of Fame performer and ‘80s legend Amber Lynn accompanied AVN CEO Tony Rios to cap the presentation with the announcement of nominations in the top categories.
A complete list of nominees can be seen here.
Photography by Jeff Koga/@kogafoto
For photo galleries, click here.
