Ty Lattimore: Tying Up Loose Ends

Photo by Sylvester Q.

I conducted this interview in 2004. Thought it might be interesting for folks to read. Check out his website.

How did you get started in the porn business?
Well, I was modeling for a different photographer and doing alot of print work. I was 20, living in Oakland, working in corporate America and going to school when I was first approached.

If sex is your job, how has it changed your perspective? Has sex lost its magic?
No, not at all. That's difference between work and personal. I keep both separate. I don't hang out with many folks in the industry. I lead a pretty simple life, and I have good friends who keep me grounded. I have never dated anyone in the industry. Again I feel I need to keep the two separate.

Not to say I never would date another model. I just think it would be difficult. I like to leave what happened on the set there. I do have some really great friends from the industry. Some I knew before we started doing videos and some after. But there are so many guys that do not get the props they deserve like JC Carter, Kamrum, Erotic, Dante Franklin, and Flex Deon Blake.

During a film have you ever had to fuck someone that you didn’t want to?
At any job, you have to work with people you do not always like.

How much do we get to see of Ty (in terms of personality, not skin) in your films?
I cannot speak for all models, but what I do on film is EXACTLY who I am. I think that comes across. I am not that good of an actor.

How many films have you appeared in?
Last count was around 30. My focus now is producing my own videos.

What are the common misconceptions about being a porno star?
That we are all whores, drug addicts, unemployed, stupid, or sex addicts. Some are, some are not. I personally know some porn models who entertain full-time. Some don't. Some escort and some don't. Some strip and some don't. People somehow think because you are in video you will do anything for money. Also not every porn model is a porn star. Too many guys get into the adult entertainment industry without doing their research or thinking it through. You should not be in it just for the sex or to meet guys. It's a business. If you don't run it like one you will be used.

I could not even begin to tell you about the crazy and hectic life of being a porn star. Between dealing with the praise and the hate, it can be very stressful. It's really just a business for me. I spend time deciding what projects I want to do. I have to answer a lot of emails of all sorts. You have people who want to buy your used underwear. You get emails about going to hell and dying of AIDS. There is the fan mail. I wrote a column for Black Inches. I travel a lot to shoots. I have to do a lot of photos. I have to follow up with producers and directors. You have to check different sites and magazines to make sure people are not using your pics without your permission. You have to keep informed on the industry and who is doing what.

You have to try to stay in shape and take care of your body. I have to promote myself a lot. Nobody has your best interest at heart as much as you. I have to schedule my shoots and not over expose myself. You have to try to maintain a buzz. You have to deal with constantly being criticized and rejected. You have to deal with people approaching you any time you leave the house. People may not consider that you could be having a bad day. They want to talk to you and you have to be in a good mood. People sometimes forget some things are private or it may not be an appropriate time or place. They feel because they bought a video or magazine that you belong to them. Most people that approach me are really kind and cool. But there is always the few who come at me wrong. You have to be able to handle your finances. You also have to be prepared for the day when the celebrity is gone. Not all models handle this well.

Some people get caught up in their own hype. It's an industry that uses people up and then moves on to the next hot thing. That’s why you have to have other interests, dreams, and income. Anyone in entertainment knows there is an expiration date. That said, I have traveled the world, met some great people, made some decent money, and had a lot of fun. My favorite perk is being able to get VIP treatment when I do go places. It’s a rough business but I have enjoyed it all.

Does being a porno star interfere with people getting to know the “real” you?
Often because you never know if they want Ty the person or the porn star.

Finish the sentence. Being a sex entertainer means that I can…
Still be happy, sane, educated, successful and stable.

What are some of your interests?
Traveling, reading comic books, leather, and hot sex...

Treasured accomplishments?
My biggest accomplishment have been being nominated for a few awards, being on the cover of a few magazines, and starting my own company called Ty Lattimore Entertainment. I produced my first two videos, "A Little Off the Top" and "Dial a Freak" which are available at my website.

I am really proud of stepping in a new direction. My goal is to produce hot videos with all types of hot men from the South. I was amazed at how much I have learned from being on set. Unlike a lot of others that produce and direct, I think the fact that I am a model allows me to have empathy for the guy that model. Its not as easy as people think. Its very technical and requires a lot of confidence and concentration. I also saw some of the other videos out and felt I really could not do any worse than some of these producers. I also wanted to sort of guide some of the guys who have been asking me for advice over the years.

Last book read?
What Looks Like Crazy on an Ordinary Day by Pearl Cleage. What I like about the book is that the main character realizes that whatever craziness like throws at you, you can still survive. I also like how she journeys back home and has a different perspective of her family and friends. The book reminds you that there is a blessing in all of life's lessons.

What is the most ridiculous line you’ve ever heard?
I had you last night and you were awesome (referring to seeing me in a video as if I was physically there.)

What is your objective as a porno star?
To do what makes me happy and be successful, regardless of what anyone thinks.

Saturday, December 10, 2005 @ 10:13 AM