In the adult entertainment world, victimhood narratives have shaped public perceptions, often dividing industry figures into two roles: the "Good Victim" and the "Bad Victim." This article explores how figures such as Lana Rhoades and Mia Khalifa, associated with the "Good Victim" movement, have been accused of hypocrisy for criticizing the industry while profiting from it, and how these criticisms can stigmatize not only the industry, but also the women within it and 18+ content creators in general. In contrast, figures like Amarna Miller, Sasha Grey, and Brittni De La Mora (formerly Jenna Presley), labeled as "Bad Victims," offer more nuanced perspectives that challenge stigma and promote a more empowered vision. Primarily aimed at women and 18+ content creators, this analysis seeks to foster a critical conversation about the pornography industry, centered on respect, autonomy, and destigmatization.

What does it mean to be a "Good Victim" or a "Bad Victim"?

The term "Good Victim" describes those who present their experience in the porn industry as deeply traumatic, seeking public sympathy by positioning themselves as exploited or repentant. Lana Rhoades and Mia Khalifa fit this mold. Rhoades, for example, has declared that porn should be illegal, describing it as "100% fake" and harmful, while expressing her desire to remove all of her videos from the internet (Daily Mail). Khalifa, for her part, has called her brief time in the industry "traumatic," warning other women against joining (LADbible). However, both continue to generate income through platforms like OnlyFans, where they control their content, which has led to accusations of hypocrisy from colleagues like actor Dredd (IGV Official).

On the other hand, the "Bad Victim" doesn't renounce her past in the industry, but rather integrates it into her personal narrative, recognizing both its challenges and its opportunities. Amarna Miller, Sasha Grey, and Brittni De La Mora represent this approach. Miller advocates for ethical and feminist porn, working with producers like Erika Lust to improve working conditions (Erika Lust Films). Grey, who has transitioned into film and literature, describes his experience as mostly positive, mentioning financial exploitation but without generalizing (Boss Hunting). De La Mora, after leaving porn for religion, promotes acceptance of sex workers, challenging religious stigma (Fox News).

The perceived hypocrisy of "Good Victims"

The apparent contradiction in Rhoades and Khalifa's actions lies in their harsh criticism of the industry while profiting from its fame. Rhoades, for example, has tried to erase her pornographic past, but remains active on OnlyFans, where she monetizes adult content (Wikipedia). His NFT project CryptoSis, accused of being a scam after raising $1.5 million, reinforces perceptions that he is seeking to capitalize on his image without taking full responsibility (Cryptopolitan). Khalifa, although critical of porn, also uses her notoriety for media projects and OnlyFans, which some see as a selective exploitation of her past (Yahoo).

This duality has drawn criticism both within and outside the industry. By positioning themselves as victims in need of "rescue," Rhoades and Khalifa may be reinforcing stereotypes that portray sex work as inherently harmful. This not only stigmatizes women who choose to remain in the industry, but can also affect 18+ content creators on platforms like OnlyFans, who face similar judgments for their work.

The Impact on the Industry and Women
"Good Victim" narratives have profound consequences. By emphasizing trauma and exploitation without acknowledging the positive experiences or agency of other workers, these stories perpetuate the idea that porn is universally degrading. This can:
Stigmatizing sex workers: 18+ content creators, especially women, face constant scrutiny. Rhoades' and Khalifa's statements can fuel perceptions that their work is "shameful" or "harmful," making it difficult to normalize sex work as a legitimate choice.
Obscuring the diversity of experiences: Not all women in porn share the same stories. Miller, for example, advocates for ethical standards that respect performers, showing that the industry can be reformed from within (Dawn Serra Podcast). Grey highlights how porn taught her negotiation skills, challenging the narrative of total victimhood (The Daily Beast).
Reinforcing gender stereotypes: By presenting themselves as women who "need saving," "Good Victims" can perpetuate the idea that women in porn lack autonomy, which disempowers those who consciously choose this path.
The "Bad Victims": A Model of Empowerment

"Bad Victims" offer a vital counterweight. Amarna Miller not only works in the industry, but also constructively critiques it, promoting a porn that prioritizes consent and well-being (XConfessions). Sasha Grey, by integrating her past into her multifaceted career, proves that porn doesn't define a person, but can be a chapter in a diverse life (Wikipedia). Brittni De La Mora, from her religious perspective, advocates for compassion toward sex workers, challenging the moral judgment they face (Opera News).

These women show that it is possible to acknowledge the industry's flaws—such as financial exploitation or precarious working conditions—without demonizing it. Their approaches foster a more inclusive dialogue that respects women's agency and advocates for improvements without resorting to stigma.

A call to content creators over 18

For women creating 18+ content, whether on OnlyFans, independent platforms, or in the mainstream industry, this debate underscores the importance of authentic narratives. The perceived hypocrisy of "Good Victims" shouldn't discourage creators, but rather inspire them to tell their own stories. Some key reflections:
Embrace your agency: Like Miller and Grey, recognize your power to define your career. Porn or 18+ content doesn't have to be a "mistake" to regret, but rather a choice that can coexist with other goals.
Advocate for change: Follow Miller's example by demanding ethical standards. Use your platform to educate about consent, safety, and respect in the industry.
Challenge the stigma: Like De La Mora, promote acceptance, whether from a spiritual, feminist, or personal perspective. Your work is valid and deserves respect.
Be authentic: Avoid narratives that seek sympathy. Share both challenges and victories to show the complexity of your experience.
The divide between "Good Victim" and "Bad Victim" in the porn industry reveals deeper tensions over autonomy, stigma, and representation. While Lana Rhoades and Mia Khalifa have been criticized for hypocrisy that can damage the industry and stigmatize women, figures like Amarna Miller, Sasha Grey, and Brittni De La Mora offer empowering role models who acknowledge porn's flaws without demonizing it. For female content creators 18+, this is a moment to reclaim their narratives, advocate for ethical change, and challenge the stereotypes that limit their freedom. The porn industry doesn't need saviors, but rather authentic voices that celebrate its diversity and champion its future.
Resources for content creators +18:
Explore Erika Lust's work for inspiration on ethical porn (erikalust.com).
Read about Sasha Grey's transition for ideas on diversification (The Creative Independent).
Connect with communities that support sex work, like SWOP (Sex Workers Outreach Project), for resources and support.
Key quotes:
Lana Rhoades calls for outlawing the porn industry
Mia Khalifa criticizes the adult industry
Amarna Miller on ethical porn
Sasha Gray on her experience
Brittni De La Mora advocates for acceptance