Adding Mainstream Crossover for Revenue Diversity

For some adult content creators, the allure of crossing over into mainstream media remains strong. That crossover could lead to larger audiences, diversified revenue streams, and increased earning potential.

For content creators who have a loyal and valuable fan base on platforms like OnlyFans, Fansly, and ManyVids, making the jump to mainstream platforms such as television, movies, social media, or business ventures and partnerships doesn’t seem so farfetched.

But how to do it is the question and how to navigate the shift while maintaining a unique brand identity is also important.

Here are some strategies to consider if you’re thinking about crossing over into mainstream media:

Build a Strong Personal Brand

You’re only as good as your name. One important step adult content creators can take in their journey to crossover to mainstream is to build a marketable personal brand. A creator’s personality, style, and unique attributes should always be on display across the creator’s existing platforms to help attract mainstream attention.

• Consistency: From social media posts to the style, theme, and tone of videos and the way a creator does interviews, maintaining a consistent brand image is a crucial first step.
• Engagement: Active and authentic engagement with followers is also important, not just on adult platforms but mainstream social media channels as well. That authentic engagement that highlights the creator’s personality can resonate with wider audiences and attract attention across the industry.

Creators who have successfully transitioned into mainstream media often start by curating their personal brand, leveraging their adult content history and venturing into new opportunities like authorship or product endorsements. Publishing books that span memoirs, fiction, or even advice on personal empowerment can open the door to television appearances, speaking engagements, and brand sponsorships.

Leverage Social Media to Attract Mainstream Opportunities

Social media is an important tool in many ways and, depending on the size of a creator’s audience, it could serve as a springboard for securing opportunities in mainstream media.

• Platforms like Instagram, X, and TikTok provide creators with the chance to showcase their personalities, skills, and creativity outside of adult content. By sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of their lives, participating in trends, or offering educational content, creators can establish themselves as well-rounded influencers who could align with mainstream opportunities.
• YouTube is another platform where adult content creators can pivot to non-adult content, such as lifestyle vlogs, fitness tutorials, or travel vlogs. Creators can build audiences who are interested in their broader persona, not just their adult work.
• Podcasting is another avenue where creators can shift into mainstream media. Whether focusing on personal stories, interviews with other celebrities, or even discussing the adult industry, podcasts allow creators to offer unique perspectives and engage audiences on a more intimate level.

Be Proactive - Seek Out Mainstream Media Collaborations

Adult creators looking to make the leap into mainstream media can also actively seek collaborations with established brands, influencers, and media outlets that align with their interests and personal brand.

These collaborations can range from guest appearances to co-branded campaigns, and they help increase credibility and visibility in non-adult spaces.

• Television and Film: Some adult creators have transitioned into acting, producing, or appearing on mainstream TV shows and movies. With streaming services increasingly focusing on diverse content, there are more opportunities for creators to appear in non-adult roles or participate in documentaries about the adult industry.
• Music and Performance: Some adult performers leverage their fanbase to pursue music careers, YouTube series, or performance art. By cross-pollinating their brand into areas like music videos, live performances, or even theatrical productions, adult content creators can capture new audiences that could lead to additional revenue and mainstream opportunities.

Create and Sell Non-Adult Content

Something else creators interested in crossing over into mainstream media should consider is creating and selling non-adult content. For example:

• Merchandise: Selling personal merchandise like clothing, accessories, and branded items can help adult creators strengthen their brand across non-adult platforms.
• Fitness and Lifestyle Coaching: With a strong following, adult creators can enter the wellness, fitness, or lifestyle space by offering paid fitness plans, diet regimens, or even personal consultations. This could be an effective way to target a broader audience beyond those interested in adult content.
• Exclusive Non-Adult Content: Consider offering paid, exclusive non-adult content such as cooking classes, photography tips, or creative writing. This can help adult creators diversify their income and audiences beyond the adult industry.

Capitalize on Speaking Engagements and Public Appearances

As adult content creators build their personal brands across platforms and become recognized figures, they can leverage opportunities for speaking engagements and public appearances. It could be at conferences, charity events, or mainstream media talk shows. This is an opportunity for creators to showcase their personal story, share their insights on the adult industry, or even speak on topics like body positivity, entrepreneurship, or sex education.

Public speaking not only helps creators earn additional income but also increases visibility in mainstream media spaces, potentially leading to other appearances, interviews, or features in mainstream publications.

Crossing over from adult content creation into mainstream media is an exciting possibility that requires strategic action and a long-term view. Those actions include building a strong personal brand, finding ways to engage with broader audiences on social media, proactively seeking collaborations, and exploring aligned business ventures. It also means staying authentic and adaptable to an ever-evolving mainstream media landscape.