David Hurles, a pioneering gay pornographer, passed away on April 12th at the age of 78. Hurles, who started his pornographic media company, Old Reliable, in the 1970s in San Francisco, was reportedly one of the first to focus on the “unsavory dregs of society” in contrast to the cleaner-cut models that were popular at the time.
Hurles’ death was reportedly due to complications from a stroke he suffered in 2008. The Bay Reporter published his obituary, while The Bob Mizer Foundation, a not-for-profit organization that promotes and preserves progressive and controversial photography, paid tribute to Hurles and his pioneering work in the field.
The Foundation stated in a press release, “David’s work for Old Reliable exposed gay audiences to a sub-culture in which we found excitement and thrills, an encounter with the type of man we have always been told to avoid. His pioneering work in the field revolutionized the art of desire.”
Despite his groundbreaking work, Hurles was arrested on obscenity charges multiple times throughout his decades-long career. However, he remained unapologetic about his artistic vision and sexual interests.
Long-time friend and manager of Hurles’ estate, Dian Hanson, said, “David realized early that he was sexually attracted to straight criminals, and all of his unique creative work, including photos, films, video and audiotapes, derived from this erotic obsession. The power emanating from his photos reflects the power his subjects held over him.”
Hurles’ influence on the world of gay porn will not be forgotten. An upcoming volume of The Bob Mizer Foundation’s publication, Physique Pictorial, will reportedly focus on Hurles’ life and career, cementing his legacy as a trailblazer in the industry.
In a time when gay sexuality was still largely taboo, Hurles’ work and dedication to the representation of the LGBT community has paved the way for the current state of sexual liberation and acceptance. David Hurles will be remembered as a visionary who wasn’t afraid to challenge the status quo and explore the fringes of society.