MIAMI, FL — Gregory Clayman, a pioneering figure in the live cam sector and co-founder of the long-running webcam platform Flirt4Free, has passed away.
Clayman served as president of VS Media, the company behind Flirt4Free, helping guide the platform’s development during the formative years of online streaming technology. Originally launched in 1996 under the name VideoSecrets, Flirt4Free emerged as one of the earliest webcam platforms on the internet and helped pioneer real-time performer-to-viewer interaction.
Throughout his career, Clayman was widely regarded as an early architect of the interactive cam business, helping establish a model of live engagement that would eventually evolve into today’s creator-driven streaming economy.
Clayman was also a familiar presence at industry conferences and discussions focused on the future of digital media, where he often spoke about emerging technologies and the responsibilities of companies operating in the adult space.
XBIZ Founder and Publisher Alec Helmy remembered Clayman as a foundational figure in the cam industry and a decades-long friend.
“Greg was a true pioneer of the cam business. He entered the industry around the same time I did and was also one of my very first clients,” Helmy said. “Over the years we built a special friendship as we navigated the fast-changing landscape of our businesses together.
“I’ll always remember our conversations. Greg was soft-spoken and sincere, and he genuinely enjoyed sharing his unique wisdom and helping others along the way. I’m deeply saddened by his passing. Thank you, Greg, for all your love and support. Rest in peace, my friend.”
Industry attorney Corey D. Silverstein also paid tribute to Clayman, remembering him as both a brilliant businessman and a cherished friend.
“Greg’s unexpected passing has left a massive void in the world,” Silverstein told XBIZ. “I’m heartbroken for his family, friends, and anyone that ever had the pleasure to meet him. Greg was a brilliant businessman and always made me smile. There are too many stories of Greg’s adventures and I feel fortunate that I was able to share some of them with him. He will be tremendously missed.”
Jason Tucker of Battleship Stance spoke about Clayman's role and stature in the industry.
"Greg was a wonderful person," he said. "He stood as a leader, developer, and true innovator in the tech arm of our industry and stepped forward when outside forces attempted to attack it. That included helping lead the legal fight against Acacia alongside my company at the time and others.
"I knew Greg for more than 20 years and never saw him be anything but kind, thoughtful, and generous with his time," Tucker continued. "He was a sounding board with great stories and insights. We shared an appreciation for technology, new ideas, and smooth operations, and I was fortunate to know him both professionally and personally.
"He was a good one. His absence will be felt. He was simply a great guy in the best way."
Former Flirt4Free VP Jeff Wilson remembered how Clayman treated him.
"He was a good guy. Generous when he didn’t need to be and helped shape my career," he said. "He always treated me like an equal, even when I was just the new kid they hired."
Jasmine James also spoke about the effect Clayman had on her career.
"Greg gave me my first opportunity in the industry, and I will always be grateful for that," she said. "He truly marched to the beat of his own drum, which I deeply appreciated. I feel incredibly fortunate to have had the chance to work so closely with him. He will truly be missed."
Over the years, Clayman earned recognition for his outstanding contributions to the business side of the adult industry, including being honored with Businessman of the Year at the 2017 XBIZ Exec Awards.
Information regarding memorial services was not immediately available.
XBIZ will update this story with additional remembrances as they become available.
