In the late 80s and early 90s Joey Stefano (born Nicholas Anthony Iacona Jr.) was one of the biggest names in gay porn. However he became HIV+ and was addicted to drugs, which led to his death from a speedball overdose at the age of only 26.
Now filmmaker Chad Darnell (Birthday) is planning a biopic of Stefano, called X-Rated, and he’s been talking to Queerty about his upcoming movie.
Talking about what drew him to the story, he says, “This is a story about addiction. The film is about the entire ‘porn brat pack:’ Chi Chi LaRue, Sharon Kane, Mickey Skee, Karen Dior and of course, Joey. They were a family. So, while Joey’s story is front and center in the film, as I’ve joked, it’s a little more X-Men and less Wolverine. It’s an ensemble film. Each of these characters battled years of addiction and Joey’s addictions killed him and everyone knew his addiction would kill him.”
As for who will play the central role, he says, “I know who I want and I’m just waiting for the right pieces to be in place before we make the ‘ask.’ He was on a television show last season. I’m also excited about casting ‘Brian Maley’ and ‘Mickey Skee.’ I’ve really enjoyed getting to know all the surviving members of this story, so I’m very protective of them and how they are going to be portrayed.”
Some actors are already attached though. He adds, “We currently have attached Missi Pyle as Sharon Kane, Ryan O’Connor as Chi Chi LaRue and Willam Belli as Karen Dior. I have a few television actors who are interested in some of the other roles, and it will just really come down to availability and their schedule. We’ve done three cast readings of the script and everyone who has seen it and knew ‘the pack; say that Ryan, Missi and Willam are Larry, Sharon, and Karen.”
You can read more over at Queerty. There’s no news though on exactly when we might be able to see the film.
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