LOS ANGELES — Matrix Models today joined as a member of LATATA, a trade association comprised of adult entertainment talent agencies.
Matrix Models has launched the careers of some of the top names in the adult biz, including Sunny Leone and Kayden Kross. It specializes representing "Penthouse Pet-quality" girls, according to owner John Steven.
Steven, who has worked in the industry for 14 years including four as a licensed talent agent, said his agency is joining LATATA because it addresses issues that the talent side of the biz faces.
"I've always been for the safety of the models, and my primary concern has been that as well as for them to get paid," Steven told XBIZ. "But they also need a way share information about the never-ending stream of new people in the business. It's really essential that they understand everything they are getting into."
Steven said that LATATA is a great starting point for discussion when it comes to talent safety, particularly when it involves the 10-15 illegitimate, unlicensed agents who hustle models illegally in Porn Valley.
"The bane of my existence in this business has been the suitcase pimps," he said. "I don't mind the competition but they put the talent in harmful situations. I hear so many horror stories."
Current LATATA members include LA Direct Models, Adult Talent Managers, Spiegler Girls, Foxxx Modeling, Type 9 Models and now Matrix Models.