Yesterday, we were all sad to hear that Ron Jeremy is in the hospital, suffering from a serious heart ailment. Word in the media spread quickly; for friends and fans, it’s a big deal because Ron is part of the history and fabric of this industry.
Four years ago, when he received the FSC Positive Image Award, it was one in a long list of awards and accolades that Ron has received over the years. He’s been in the business since 1978. He’s the most recognizable “porn star” alive, though these days many of the fans that love him have probably never watched one of his scenes.
Ronnie transcends genres and generations. IMBD says he’s appeared in more than 800 adult films, but the actual count is probably more than 2,000. He has a BA in theater and also in education. He plays a mean harmonica and he used to go hang-gliding, back when that was a popular sport. He was real before “reality TV” was trendy, on “The Surreal Life” in 2004. He’s achieved cult status with college kids in 1999’s “Boondock Saints” and 1997’s “Orgazmo.”
Aside from the movie star credits, Ron works all the time and travels relentlessly. He speaks at churches and university debates, always offering a pro-adult perspective to the public discourse. Ron also appears at numerous charity functions, especially animal charities. He’s been a high profile spokesman for Peta and is well known as an advocate for animals. But it’s not just animals; it’s underprivileged children, or kids with cancer, or Haitian relief efforts – because Ron is just a genuinely nice guy.
Those that know him know that he will stop in a crowd, for a fan, to say “hello” to someone’s surprised uncle or mother on a cellphone, in the middle of an aisle at a show. He’s just that kind of person, and that’s what makes him the goodwill ambassador for adult entertainment. There is no one on earth quite like Ron Jeremy.
News on social media yesterday from agent Mike Esterman said Ron was resting comfortably following two surgeries.
Ron, the Free Speech Coalition Board members and staff send heartfelt wishes for a speedy recovery, and we know that many friends and fans are wishing you well.
(Photo: Courtesy © Glenn Francis, www.PacificProDigital.com)
