“Are we perpetuating stereotypes or are we victims of stereotypes, and how does this correlate to faithful practitioners of Christian faith? We discussed those elements and whether or not there’s a victimization or a perceived victimization,” Steele told XBIZ.
A network journalist was flown from New York to tape an interview with Steele for the episode. Tackling the provocative topic of stereotypes, Steele agreed that there are many derogatory portrayals of African-Americans in adult videos, but said he looks at himself as an individual that was able to use those roles to his advantage and create a new image of himself as a successful, top echelon performer.
“A very long time ago, I understood the use of stereotypes as it relates to adult video and African American participants. By taking advantage of a stereotype, I’ve been able to build my popularity and use it to my advantage,” Steele said. “Knowing that there’s a position for African American males historically, one can be a victim of that stereotype or repossess it and then redistribute it in one’s own image. By knowing that I fit into that stereotype, I was able to remanufacture it.”
Steele was undeterred by the religious aspect of the talk show, saying he feels a responsibility toward representing the industry, especially African-Americans in the industry, with dignity and respect.
“I conveyed to them that the industry has an MO for portraying African Americans negatively, but I do believe if the stereotype does include a Lexington Steele, if it includes him and me, then it’s not all bad,” Steele said.
“I went on to say that what we do does not place an individual at odds with his faith. We aren’t doing anything illegal and we are providing a viable service. And the panelists definitely felt positive about my inclusion and what I had to say. They were impressed and it was enlightening to them to know there are individuals that operate at the highest echelons of this billion-dollar business,” he said.
Steele’s appearance on “Meet the Faith” comes on the heels of his recently taped cameo appearances on Showtime’s dramatic comedy series “Weeds.” He plays himself in two episodes that will air this fall.
Also, Steele recently completed shooting two pilots for his own Mercenary Entertainment, one in a variety format and the other for an as-yet-unnamed reality series. He is currently pursuing network interest for both shows.
