James Bennett is back in business and finding the balance

I caught up with James Bennett for a behind-the-scenes look at his online life.

The Covid-19 pandemic forced us all to pause and rethink the way we were doing things. How did your pandemic experience change your perspective on your work in adult entertainment and sex-work?

The show must go on, as they say,

Infectious diseases and viruses are not something new within th industry that I work in.

As performers, before any scene we are STI tested and questioned on health. Depending on the scene, we may be using condoms, we may use PrEP, or we may be Undetectable and test ourselves every three months to keep an eye on things.

I think COVID-19 could potentially be added to the list of things to look out for. We have the vaccine now, and the tests available.

The pandemic has made me feel cautious and anxious. I work in an environment where body contact is an essential part of the trade – it’s been very difficult for me.

I’ve had the vaccine, and I ensure that I’m Covid tested frequently. Where possible, I check with my clients if they’ve been vaccinated and tested recently. This all provides me with some level reassurance, and has enabled me to continue working – although it’s been at a reduced capacity.

How do you balance your porn work, your escorting work, and finding space for your personal life?

It’s tricky. I generally don’t take clients without notice. Also, with porn, the scenes are typically scheduled in advance – so, I’m able to work my personal life around that.

Taking some time for myself is very important, but – when you receive a call – it’s very tempting to cancel plans and take the booking.

I’ve learned to say no at times. I’ve also learned to turn my phone off on certain days.

You’ve talked publicly about your mental health journey, and the challenges you’ve encountered in your personal life. Do you feel that you can play a role as a role-model to younger guys starting to enter the adult entertainment industry?

My hope – from speaking openly about my journey – was that if somebody found themselves in a similar situation as myself, they would hopefully feel like they are not the only one to have these feelings.

In this industry, it’s easy to feel a certain type of way about something and then let it spiral.

Hopefully, somebody may see me and know that I’ve had my struggles but I still press on doing what makes me happy.

My advice for any newcomers is to develop a thick skin and to develop it quick. Remember, if you’ve been booked for a gig or a client, it’s because you have a quality the person booking is looking for.

You’ve said that you’re currently taking a break from live performances, how are you getting your exhibitionist kicks when you’re not performing on stage?

Mostly it’s through cruising!

You might be lucky one day and catch me at Hampstead Heath or Finsbury Park. I’m based in North London, so those have been my stomping grounds for a little while now.

Live shows can’t take place with the current situation, but – when the clubs have reopened – if somebody reaches out, then maybe I’ll get back on stage.

I do miss the live audience and the atmosphere of the clubs.

Which gay travel destinations are high on your travel wish-list?

I’m a bit of a history nerd, I love the Romans. On my next holiday, I was planning on touring Italy – starting in Milan and working my way down to Sicily.

I’m not sure if there are many ‘gay’ locations out there, but I’m sure I’d find them.

Gran Canaria has a special place in my heart. I can’t wait to be partying again in the Yumbo Centre’s many cruising clubs.

Staying in Spain, I’ve heard good things about Sitges.

I’d love to go to Mardi Gras in Sydney. Other destinations on my wish-list include Mykonos, and Puerto Rico.

What are some of your goals and aspirations for the months ahead?

“I hope to be doing more work with @Guyzin2rubber. They’re trying to plan some more scenes, bringing in new models.

I hope to get out to some fetish events, once they’re all back on.

Mostly, I’ll be looking to create more scenes with studios, build my client base, keep improving on my physical and mental health, post more on Twitter, and build my followers.

Follow James Bennett on Twitter