Gay former adult film actor Antonio Moreno has made history by winning the mayoral election in Carcelén, a small Spanish town. The 38-year-old, known by his stage name Héctor de Silva during his adult film career, secured victory with a narrow margin of 12 votes, claiming 51.4 percent of the total. Carcelén, home to approximately 500 residents, now embraces an openly LGBTQ mayor.
Moreno’s past in the adult film industry, starring in productions like “Hung Country” and “Star Wars: A Gay XXX Parody,” did not deter his political aspirations. Embracing transparency, Moreno acknowledged his previous career and expressed gratitude to his family for their unwavering support. He stated, “I accept my past as a porn actor without hesitation. It was a chapter in my life that taught me valuable lessons.”
Running under the Partido Popular (PP) political party, known for its conservative leaning, Moreno defied expectations. While the party had previously opposed marriage equality, some PP-led regions have implemented measures against anti-LGBTQ+ discrimination. With a background as a firefighter, Moreno’s connection to the community played a vital role in his campaign.
Born in Albacete but captivated by Carcelén’s breathtaking natural environment, Moreno shared a personal connection to the town. Through his efforts, he aims to attract families and bolster the town’s population. Recognizing Carcelén’s potential in terms of nature, cultural heritage, and its August festivals, Moreno envisions a brighter future for the town.
In an interview with El Periodico de Espana, Moreno expressed that his more conservative political beliefs may have posed challenges during the campaign, overshadowing his sexual orientation or previous profession. Despite encountering closed-mindedness and rebukes, Moreno remained steadfast. He emphasized, “Criticism arose due to my political affiliation, not my sexual orientation.”
Antonio Moreno’s journey from the adult film industry to becoming the mayor of Carcelén showcases the resilience of an individual determined to break barriers and challenge stereotypes. Through captivating photographs, witness the remarkable transformation and the triumph of an LGBTQ politician, paving the way for inclusivity and progress in a rural town.