A Legend of the Adult Film Industry
John Curtis Holmes, for me, was truly a “Divinity of the American and worldwide Hardcore Cinema sky.”
Appearing in over 2,000 films, he is still the most famous male porn star the world has ever known.
John Holmes was to the adult film industry what Elvis Presley was to rock and roll—simply, the King.
His presence on screen, his unique charisma, and his legendary reputation turned him into a living myth. He was not only an icon of adult films but a symbol of a whole generation of sexual liberation and cinematic experimentation.
The Rise of Johnny Wadd
In 1973, John Holmes’ popularity skyrocketed thanks to a series of porn films where he played a private investigator named Johnny Wadd—a nickname that would stick with him for the rest of his career.
These movies defined a new genre, mixing storytelling with explicit content, and helped make Holmes a household name in the world of adult entertainment.
By 1978, John Holmes was earning about $3,000 a day—an unimaginable sum for most actors of that era. In a 1981 interview, he even claimed to have slept with over 14,000 women. On set, his pay rate was similar to mine—hundreds of millions of lire per shoot.
In those years, my own films grossed billions of lire—numbers that are unthinkable today.
My collaboration with John, especially on the film Carne Bollente, brought me my highest earnings ever from a single production.
The Golden Era: Talent and Storytelling
Working with John Holmes was always special. Unlike the adult industry today, actors and actresses back then were still expected to have some real acting ability. Directors and film crews often came from mainstream cinema and understood how to highlight the performative side of adult films.
In the seventies, the adult movies I starred in still had a real plot and dramatic structure. John Holmes, like me, took this seriously. He brought unique talent to every role, immersing himself in his characters and expressing a full range of emotions in front of the camera.
He wasn’t just a “performer.” He was a real actor, and his ability to combine physical presence with expressive acting made his films memorable and set a standard that few could reach.
A True Gentleman on and off Set
I’ve worked with many actors from that era, but Holmes stood out to me—and to most actresses—as a true gentleman. He was charismatic and professional, always committed to giving his best on set.
None of the actors from the Schicchi/Cicciolina/Diva Futura era can be compared to John Holmes. His attitude, respect for his colleagues, and dedication to the art made him unique.
Many actresses from the golden age of adult cinema agree: Holmes was not only a superstar but a rare example of a kind and professional man in a world that wasn’t always easy for women.
Carne Bollente: An Iconic Film
Thirty years later, I still remember the production of Carne Bollente (international title: The Rise and Fall of the Roman Empress), filmed in 1987.
Directed by Riccardo Schicchi and set in Rome, this film remains one of the highlights of my career, both for its story and for its incredible cast.
Alongside me and John Holmes, the movie featured other great stars like Christoph Clark, Amber Lynn, and Tracey Adams. It was a dream team—actors and actresses at the top of their game, each bringing their personality and energy to the film.
The Plot
The story follows Cicciolina, who is reported to the police for obscene acts during a sexy show. To avoid jail, she’s offered the chance to serve the community as a sexologist. For the same reason, her American colleague John Holmes comes to Italy to work with her.
Together, they tackle different “cases”—which of course become the excuse for many new sexual adventures, both as a couple and individually.
Once the “sentence” is served, the film ends with an orgy organized by Cicciolina to bid farewell to Holmes, who is returning to America. All the “patients” treated by the pair join in this grand farewell party.
Carne Bollente stands out not just for its explicit content, but for its humor, creativity, and for being a snapshot of a unique period in adult film history—a time when storytelling, character, and performance mattered.
Remembering Holmes: The SuperPornStar
Today, looking back after more than thirty years, I can say with no hesitation: John Holmes was the only true SuperPornStar.
His legacy is still felt in the adult industry. He changed the way we think about eroticism, masculinity, and performance on screen.
Holmes was more than just a star—he was an icon, a pioneer, and a colleague I will always respect and remember.
I feel lucky to have worked with him, and grateful for the energy and inspiration he brought to every film, especially to Carne Bollente.
The End of an Era
The world of adult cinema has changed a lot since those days. Today, there are more films, more performers, and more technology—but some of the magic has been lost. The mix of acting, eroticism, and storytelling that defined the golden era is rare to find now.
But legends like John Holmes remind us of what is possible when talent, passion, and artistry come together.
His name, his films, and his spirit continue to inspire performers and fans all over the world.
A Tribute
To John Holmes—the only real SuperPornStar.
With respect and affection,
Cicciolina
(Ilona Staller)
