Exclusive Interview: Talent Agent Howard Andrew Talks Creating FabScout, The Changing Landscape of Porn, & Why True Porn Stars Are a Thing of the Past

The old Hollywood saying is that, "stars aren't born, they're made." The same is true in the adult industry. It is a few super talented and strategic people who can discover, groom, and elevate an unknown, but talented specimen and turn them into the object of millions of gay men's fantasies.

One such mastermind is gay porn talent agent Howard Andrew. Howard has been in the business for over twenty years now, and has contributed to the creation of many legendary gay porn stars through his agency, FabScout.com. This year, he was honored at the 2022 GayVNAwards as the Hall of Fame Honoree.

And the speech, thank you Tony and your team. And thank you to everyone this is appreciated https://t.co/14n1E4ZcgY

— Howard Andrew (@FabScoutHoward) January 22, 2022

Howard recently joined us for an interview to share his journey to becoming a gay Hollywood agent, how true porn stars are a thing of the past, and to discuss some of his own favorite clients of the past and present.

Could you share with us your journey to joining the business and founding FabScout?
I was managing a strip club, "Cupids Cabaret" in Miami, and Rick Ford (Dirk Yates) came in and hired a dancer to be in a movie. It was a blast and I thought he was kidding. He then taught me the business…I was blown away by this man.

Could you explain your role in the industry? What is your job description? 
I am a talent agent,  one of only two licensed agents on the gay side of this business. My job is very much like putting together a puzzle; I have the models, studios need the models, and BAM! They fit together nicely. Also, I play Papa Bear and Dad to many, many, many of the guys in a lot of ways.

My two favorite people. My husband and my porn papa @FabScoutHoward thanks @gayvn2022 for an awesome night! pic.twitter.com/ycUZ2Be8ON

— Jared (@TheJaredTyler) January 20, 2022

You have been in the industry for over two decades now. How has it changed over time? What are some of the pros and cons?
Oh My. Well things used to be more of a “family” and now, with the smaller companies being gobbled up by the conglomerates, and the advent of OnlyFans, JustForFans, and others, the business has changed...a lot. People are doing collabs daily, and needing and wanting scenes, it’s a little tougher managing schedules and keeping things straight.

In this age of Fans sites, how do you compare performers to studio performers? What makes a true porn STAR?
I think a true porn star is someone that knows who he (or she) is and how to accept that in a genuinely nice manner.  Kind and courteous to fans, partners, and studio reps. Just treat people the way you want to be treated,  BUT I think the days of the "big name” true porn stars are behind us.  With social media and these Fans sites, everyone thinks they are stars and they have the attitudes along with it.

Any personal favorites of the many models you've worked with? Any great stories?
Very hard question.  There will always be the favorites, and the stories–SOO MANY STORIES–LOL. The favorites are the ones that need or needed help and accepted that and changed themselves for the better with a little help and advice. I cant, obviously mention a bunch of names,  but the ones that were a part of the old days “family” and are still in my life as my chosen family: Austin Wilde, Brandon Lewis  Ryan Raz, Brad Star, Aspen, Paul Canon, Tommy Defendi, Jimmy Fanz, Sean Duran, Drake Jaden, RJ Danvers (Hungerff AKA The Golden Child) Bennet Anthony, Cliff Jensen and more.  Most of these guys have been in my life for 10 and 15+ years.

 

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Anybody you were not so fond of working with? Why?
HAHAHA ok, now that’s a question I can't and won't answer.  Maybe, let us just say if I wasn’t fond of working with them, they probably aren’t still in the business…LOL.

Who were some of the "classic" porn stars that you wish you'd worked with?
The easier list is the ones I HAVE worked with: Francois Sagat, Jeff Stryker, Diesel Washington, Tag Adams, Matt Rush, Billy Herrington, Ryan Rose.  Haven't worked with but would have: Colton Ford, Ryan Idol, and soooo many others.

Who are some of the up-and-comers that impress you? 
A lot of the guys that do Fan sites only and not studio porn are very hot, but, overall Chris Damned,  Jesse Stone, Max Konner, Joel Someone, Felix Fox, Beau Butler.

Questions? Comments? Email [email protected].