Carmen Electra joins OnlyFans to reclaim her image: 'You might as well be in control'
Carmen Electra is joining OnlyFans in hopes of taking full control of her image.
In an interview with People published Wednesday, the 50-year-old model said it was a "no-brainer" to sign herself up as a content creator on the internet subscription service.
"I, for once, have this opportunity to be my own boss and have my own creative vision to share with my fans without someone standing over me, telling me, 'Don't do this, don't do that. Cover up this,' " the actress told the outlet.
OnlyFans is a social media network, like Instagram, YouTube and Facebook, where creators can earn money from users – the "fans" – who pay a monthly membership fee to access their exclusive content. The platform has become synonymous with the adult entertainment industry and sexual content, but OnlyFans has received a mainstream boost from stars like Cardi B and Bella Thorne.
"OnlyFans is the first platform where I can fully control my image; without censorship, without judgement, and without being bullied online for being me," Thorne told Paper Magazine in August 2020.
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As the demand for content increased throughout the coronavirus pandemic, stars and influencers alike have tested out OnlyFans to post unfiltered photos and videos to their fans. Electra told People that the content on her profile, which launched Wednesday, will range from "beauty tutorials" to "vacation content" and "swimwear and lingerie photos," as well as "intimate" one-on-one interactions with fans.
"People are going to do what they want to do anyway with your photos," the "Baywatch" star said. "You might as well be in control of them and follow what you feel like doing inside."
The self-empowerment of joining OnlyFans is a full-circle redemption for Electra, who joined a group of professional models and actresses in suing more than 50 strip clubs and adult entertainment venues in federal court in 2018. The models said at the time that these clubs used their photos in advertisements and promotions without permission and without pay.
"It does feel really good to stand up for yourself," Electra said. "I think what we're going through now is people are finally standing up for themselves and who they are. ... It's not always easy to do, but I do respect people that can stand up for who they are and be honest about it."
Look back: Why Carmen Electra and other models and actresses are suing strip clubs across the country
Related: Carmen Electra slips into her old 'Baywatch' swimsuit
Contributing: Cydney Henderson, USA TODAY; Cameron Knight, Cincinnati Enquirer
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Carmen Electra talks joining OnlyFans, taking control of image
