April 8, 2007 | Sex & Society

The power of Chi Chi LaRue

Chi Chi LaRue doesn't often find himself in the company of mainstream gays like Ellen DeGeneres and Rosie O'Donnell. And yet this month, that's exactly where LaRue is at. The gay porn director, drag queen and safe-sex advocate is featured in the May issue of Out Magazine, where he is listed with the likes of DeGeneres and O'Donnell as one of America's 50 most powerful gays.

LaRue ranks 36th on Out's "Power 50" list, according to GAYVN News. To qualify, he met several criteria: Each of the Power 50 -- ranked according to political clout, pop-culture resonance, individual wealth and "personal profile" -- is gay, American and considered to have a significant cultural presence in the United States. What's more, Out says, each has "exerted considerable sway over the way we think, look and act."

"It's a little mind blowing -- and it came out of left field -- but I am pleasantly surprised," LaRue said, according to GAYVN News. "I think it's fabulous that someone in the adult industry can make such a prestigious list."

Out describes LaRue, who runs Rascal Video, Channel 1 Releasing and All Worlds Video, as "the drag Martha Stewart of gay smut." The magazine chose him for its list based primarily on his safe-sex activism, though his influence over gay sex appeal and aesthetics certainly didn't hurt his resume.

"I think a lot of this recognition is because of my strong stance on safer sex and the fact that I am such an advocate for freedom of speech and freedom of expression," said LaRue, who was voted Best Director at the 2006 GAYVN Awards and who has long insisted that performers in his movies wear condoms. "I reach people with this message not only through my art, which is directing adult films, but also because I bring a little bit of naughty fun and comedic entertainment through my drag persona."

Among LaRue's most notable contributions within the gay community have been his "Wrap It Up" public service announcement -- featured on all Channel 1 Releasing titles -- and his "Protect Your Porn" voter registration campaign, designed to educate voters on protecting their First Amendment rights.

Still, many of LaRue's fans are likely to appreciate him most for persuading so many beautiful men to do so many dirty things on camera. Many thanks for all you do, Chi Chi -- but especially for that!

• Chi Chi LaRue named to OUT's 50 Most Powerful Gays list [GayVN]