Trans Pioneer Wendy Williams Inks Publicity Pact With Ikigai Marketing

LAS VEGAS — Trans pioneer Wendy Williams has inked with Kristel Penn’s Ikigai Marketing for publicity services.

The performer, producer and entrepreneur is a Transgender Erotica Awards honoree for Lifetime Achievement as well as the first XBIZ Awards winner for Trans Performer of the Year.

Her two-decade genre-hopping career includes the 2012 Urban X award for Transsexual Interracial Performer of the Year and 2017 BBW Awards Trans Star of the Year honors.

Williams had typically flacked for herself, but elected to sign with Ikigai when she decided to begin stepping away from onscreen performances. "I am excited to work with Ikigai as my time in front of the camera comes to a close,” she said. “I decided I wanted someone to help me navigate and (brainstorm) with. I have so many projects that having Kristel in my corner can only make things easier and more professional.”

Williams’ varied slate of projects her personal cosmetics line, Painted by Wendy; producing and hosting the long-running weekly trans event LexingtonTGirlParties.com; and ownership of the Roadhouse LGBT bar in Cookeville, Tennessee.

Penn praised Williams’ advocacy and her pioneering career in adult. “It’s an honor to work with Wendy during this pivotal moment of her career,” Penn said. “By the time I entered the adult industry 11 years ago, Wendy was one of the most well-known performers in trans porn, and that continues today. She has been a longtime advocate of trans inclusion in the adult industry, and I believe her visibility and hard work has helped shape what our genre looks like today.”

Follow Williams on Twitter and Instagram.

Williams is among the trans industry luminaries interviewed in the current XBIZ World cover story "Trans Pop! How a Fringe Genre Captured the Imagination of Adult." Click here to read it.

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

Ashby Winter Performs Her 1st DP in Finale of VMG Cross-Site 'In Vogue' Sequel

Ashby Winter performs her first DP alongside Dimitri Shadow and Troy Francisco in the final scene from Vixen Media Group (VMG) cross-site feature "In Vogue 2."

Addison Vodka on Playing Nice - and Playing Rough

‘It’s such a funny story,” says Addison Vodka, tossing her long, beachy blonde waves over her shoulder. “I discovered that my boyfriend at the time was using camming websites behind my back. So I was like, ‘Well, if you’re going to go on there, then I’m just going to go on there.’”

Rana Katana Stars in Latest From TransAngels

Rana Katana stars with Raj and Ram Sivan in the latest release from TransAngels, titled “Submissive Hookah Slut.”

Ana Foxxx Returns to Elegant Angel for 'A Night Out'

Ana Foxxx stars with Chad Alva in the new release from Elegant Angel, titled “A Night Out.”

Scarlett Alexis, Chloe Surreal Topline 'Lesbian Stunners 2' From Lesbian X

Scarlett Alexis and Chloe Surreal headline the second volume of "Lesbian Stunners" from X Empire studio brand Lesbian X.

'Golden Age' Director Paul Thomas Passes Away at 76

Legendary adult filmmaker Paul Thomas has passed away after spending most of his life in the porn business. He was 76.

Pure Taboo Debuts Seth Gamble Thriller 'Father's Day'

Coco Lovelock stars with Dick Chibbles in the latest thriller from Pure Taboo, titled “Father’s Day.”

Ricky's Room Signs Baby Gemini to 1-Year Deal

Ricky’s Room has signed Baby Gemini to a non-exclusive, multi-scene contract for one year.

Angela White, Payton Preslee Topline Latest From Brazzers

Multi-XMAs winner Angela White and Payton Preslee star with Mick Blue in the latest release from Brazzers, titled “Sharing The Ultimate Pleasure.”

Penny Barber Leads Latest From MYLF

Reigning XMAs MILF Performer of the Year Penny Barber stars with Ken Feels in the latest release from MYLF, titled "50 Shades of Milf."

Show More