Early Life and Background
John Stagliano was born in 1951 in Chicago and studied economics at UCLA. Initially working in journalism and screenwriting, he entered the adult industry in the late 1970s. His fascination with erotic expression and psychology drove him toward directing content that emphasized raw authenticity and visual storytelling—especially his signature focus on women’s butts.
The Birth of “Buttman” and the Gonzo Revolution
In 1989, Stagliano released the first “Buttman” video, a first-person, unscripted film that invited the viewer into the scene. Unlike traditional scripted porn, it featured handheld camera work, direct interaction with performers, and a voyeuristic tone. This format became known as gonzo porn—real, immersive, and performance-centered. The success of Buttman reshaped the adult film industry and inspired an entire genre.
Founding Evil Angel Studios
Also in 1989, Stagliano launched Evil Angel, a production company where directors retained ownership of their work. Evil Angel handled distribution while giving artists creative freedom. This innovative model attracted major talents like Belladonna, Rocco Siffredi, and Mike Adriano. Evil Angel became synonymous with edgy, authentic, and director-driven adult films.
Legal Battles and Advocacy
In 2008, Stagliano was indicted in a federal obscenity case, spotlighting First Amendment issues in adult content. The case was dropped in 2010, and Stagliano emerged as a vocal advocate for performer rights and free speech. His fight marked a key moment in defending the legitimacy and legality of adult expression.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Stagliano’s contributions extend far beyond his on-screen persona. He helped invent and popularize gonzo porn, gave directors financial and creative control, and built a globally recognized brand. His legacy includes:
- Pioneering the gonzo genre
- Establishing Evil Angel’s revolutionary business model
- Championing performer autonomy and realism
- Influencing how adult content is created and consumed
Related Articles
- The History of Evil Angel Studios
- Gonzo Porn Explained: From Buttman to Modern Streaming
- Top Evil Angel Directors to Watch in 2025
Summary
Through Buttman and Evil Angel, John Stagliano transformed adult film into something more immersive, creative, and honest. He challenged the norms, empowered artists, and left a lasting mark on the adult entertainment industry. His influence continues to shape modern porn’s aesthetics, business, and spirit.
Use the link below to explore Buttmann’s content on the Evil Angel mega-site.
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