Ugh. All that tea is never gonna come out of the carpets.
There’s been some light drama on the twitters this last week or so about Billy Santoro which I have been doing everything in my power to steer away from (if you’re interested, it’s not tough to find at the site this interview is from). This isn’t the place for it and I think we’re all cool with that. But it did bring to my attention this really thoughtful and articulate interview Santoro did with PassTheTea.com back in February. These are good questions, and Billy is really honest about how he answers them. Check it out:
Pass The Tea, Billy Santoro!
via passthetea.com
PassTheTea: You’re known as a bit of a controversial figure in porn, where people seem to have very strong feelings about you, for better or worse. What makes you such a polarizing figure?
Billy Santoro: I think the motto “better seen, not heard” is attached to anyone who is primarily known for looks or physical performance. The cold, hard truth is that I have opinions. I express my opinions. It’s a double edged sword. I live my truth, but I also allow the public to live it with me. I feel I have a huge fan base because of this. I am relatable. I am very vocal about the dynamics of my personal life, my marriage, my obstacles. There will always be those who criticize my beliefs, but I feel my openness about who I am and how I live has helped others come to terms with being in this industry, and being happy.
PTT: You’ve done every kind of scene, and worked for almost every studio out there. What are your favorite kinds of scenes and types of projects to work on? Do you prefer lots of dialogue, or “cut to the chase” sex scenes? Rough or romantic? Do tell!
BS: My favorite scenes are always those that make sense. Does that make sense? Meaning, there is a reason we are having sex. There is a story. Doing a scene where we start on a box with no idea who we are and what our relationship is, in my opinion, creates a disconnect. I enjoy scenes where the story develops the relationship to the point where the viewer understands why the sex is rough or sensual or passionate or distant. I love scenes that gradually build to the point of release. As far as performing goes, my style is very intimate. I treat my scene partners as if they are my one true desire. I am very passionate in my approach to kissing and touching. I am less of a ‘technical’ or ‘posey’ performer. My goal is to make the viewer want to embrace and kiss me.
PTT: Earlier this year you shared a very personal vlog about your struggles with alcohol and your determination to get that issue under control. How are you doing and how has your life changed as a result of embracing a healthier, more sober lifestyle?
BS: I have never been formally diagnosed as an alcoholic, but I realized that I was hurting people around me and the common denominator was always booze. I faced an easy decision, that isn’t easy for most. I had to quit drinking or lose the ones I love. And I did it! The interesting part of that journey is that I was able to see clearly the consequences of my past behavior. I hurt a lot of people. I continue to make amends where I can. The best part of being sober is that I can look in the mirror and smile.
PTT: How do you get that insane body? Is it possible for a mere mortal to achieve? Diet and workout tips, please!
BS: I don’t lie about this. I have used steroids in the past to achieve goals where my genetics just said no. But, steroids do not work unless you maintain the proper diet and work out hard daily. I am open and honest about this because I was that skinny kid who envied all these guys who looked incredible. I was so frustrated trying to attain these goals. We all have genetic potential. Mine was not to have a muscular body, but I wanted it! I started by getting myself certified as a personal trainer, mainly to teach myself. My body started changing over night, but there was only so much I could achieve naturally. After a few years of dead ends and plateaus, I decided to give testosterone and other anabolic steroids a try. Obviously, it worked. But the fine line is to know when you are supplementing and when you are abusing. I have always followed the safe implementation of steroids into my supplementation routine.
I’m not crazy about the steroids part, but you know, that’s the most truthful I’ve ever heard anyone be in a public forum about their usage and the most cautious I’ve ever heard anyone talk in ANY forum about the realities of anabolics, and the education that’s required to not destroy yourself. Whether you agree with Billy or not, it takes some grownupness to tell the truth about what it’s like being a performer with insane demands on your appearance and your body. Four for you, Billy Coco.
You can check out the rest of the interview here, where Billy talks about his relationship with Nica Noelle and Icon Male, and his husband, Seth Santoro.
– tyler
Seriously? Judgmental about steroids? You know how many actors are on roids?
I’m surprised about the steroid part. I’ve always thought that his body looked more natural than some of the other porn actors.
I wasn’t being judgmental about it. It just makes me worry for the long-term. Not that I know what’s best for someone else.
Well maybe that’s due in part to his caution. I don’t know everything about anabolics, but perhaps there’s a level of moderation that allows you to do it more safely, like Billy says here.