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The adult film business is unique in that it has usually focused on women as the figureheads and main stars, and therefore often relegated men to the background.
Over the last years, I’ve spoken to many female adult actors – from the 1960s through to the late 1980s, and it’s been interesting to see how their memories, experiences, and lives were affected as the sex film business changed.
But I also wanted to hear from someone on the other side of the equation – and find out what it was like to be a male in the business, perhaps a partner of a major sex film star, or someone who was a performer, director, or agent in the business.
Bud Lee is unique in that he has been – and still is – all of these things and more. And what’s remarkable about his life is that it mirrors the history of the industry itself: consider this – after meeting and marrying Hyapatia Lee, one of the biggest stars of the 1980s, they appeared in adult films together, before Bud became a director for adult industry mogul, Harry Mohney, directing large and expensive productions like ‘The Ribald Tales of Canterbury’ before working for Vivid Video, one of the biggest production companies of the era. Then Bud married Asia Carrera, one of the biggest names of the 1990s adult film industry, making films for Playboy and Adam and Eve, before becoming a talent agent. Today he’s still filming, for performers wanting content for their OnlyFans accounts – a far cry from the golden age, and a stark reflection of just how much the business has changed.
All this from someone who had no background in the sex film business before he met Hyapatia back in the 1970s – in fact he was a plumber who’d briefly considered divinity school and a theological life.
This podcast is 65 minutes long.
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Bud and Hyapatia Lee
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Thanks for the great interview. I’ve only heard bits and pieces from Bud in the past, and it was nice to hear more. I enjoy Hyapatia’s YouTube channel as well. Looking forward to part 2.
Thank you!
Great conversation with Bud and Hyapatia is an all-time beauty.
Also, what is the song that starts at 45:24?
Awesome Article Keep Up Good Work
Thank you Jeff!
Yet another seriously brilliant, in depth, insightful, and moving interview. It’s rare to hear this standard any where nowadays, which makes it all the more surprising that it is to be found on a golden age XXX site… but that’s the truth,
Well done to all concerned.
We so appreciate that Jeff!
I was texting a previous interviewee a few weeks ago, and they told me words to the effect of ….. “ My legacy is complete now that I have been interviewed by the Rialto folks.”
That says it all. Great conversations!
Thank you so much for sharing that Jason!
You know I’ve only ever heard of his relationship with Hyapatia from her point of view. This gives me a different take. There’s always two sides I guess. Doesn’t stop me from thinking Hyapatia is one of the sexiest performers to grace the screen however. Look forward to part 2 and Bud’s life in the business. Great job by April and The RR as always.
Fascinating angles on so many subjects – and real af! Enjoying the heck out of this, thank y’all for not only a fantastic interview, but a compelling soundtrack as well. Vive Part II!
Really appreciate it Max!
Thanks Sonny!
Like others have stated , I was only privy of Bud via Hyapatia’s podcast episode and her YouTube channel , oh and a pretty salacious mention in Jerry Butlers book , needless to say Bud comes off very concise and measured , can’t wait for part 2 especially the subject of Asia Carrera . Great work as always April / Rialto !
Thanks for taking the time to listen Isaac!
Look forward to Asia Carerra in Part 2. I hope the Rialto Reports stars covering more of the 1990s. It’s now 35 years since 1990!
Another fantastic and thoroughly enjoyable interview, April. It sounds like you both had a great time in doing it as well, great work. Very much looking forward to part 2.
It was great to speak with Bud!
What an intriguing discussion with Bud Lee! It’s fascinating to hear his perspective on the evolution of the adult film industry.
Wonderful interview; very insightful & humanizing narrative for someone who had only been briefly described in two-dimensional comments over the past 40 years. As always, thanks for the deep dive.
We really appreciate that feedback Zack!
It really is – he’s been there for the long haul!
Great with another informative and entertaining podcast. Thank you!
Thanks for listening Harlan!
This interview with Bud Lee offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of the adult film industry. His journey from plumber to industry heavyweight is inspiring, and the insights into his relationships and career shifts are truly eye-opening. A must-read for anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes story!
Very interesting episode. April Hall is the best interviewer on the internet… period.