Steve Taylor (actor, born 1939)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
November 12, 1939
- Actor
- photographer
- producer
- entrepreneur
Steve Taylor | |
|---|---|
| Born | Richard Cole November 12, 1939 |
| Died | September 9, 1986 (aged 46) Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
| Other names | Steven Taylor |
| Occupations |
|
| Years active | 1977–1986 |
| Agent(s) | Falcon Studios Surge Studios |
| Partner | Al Parker (1973–1986) |
Steve Taylor (born Richard Cole; November 12, 1939 – September 9, 1986) was an American adult film actor, producer, photographer, and entrepreneur.[1] He was a central figure in the gay adult film industry during the late 1970s and early 1980s, primarily known for co-founding Surge Studios with his long-term partner, adult film star Al Parker.[2]
Career
Acting and modeling
Taylor was known for his "bearded bear" aesthetic and muscular physique, which led to modeling work for various gay and adult magazines.[3] He appeared as a model in various gay and adult magazines of the era.[1] Unlike many of his peers, he was noted for his ability to deliver convincing dialogue.[4] His most prominent acting role was in the 1979 film Inches, where he played the lover of Al Parker's character during the conclusion of a failed relationship.[5]
Taylor played Lee, the older lover of Parker's character, Doug.[4] The film's narrative centers on Lee leaving Doug, sparking the film's events.[4] Taylor appeared in Wanted (1980) and he played the character Rick.[6][7] This film is noted for a particularly famous scene featuring the two performers together.[7] In 1981 he was credited as Mr. Ross, Taylor appeared in this early Surge Studio production Flashback, which Al Parker produced and starred in.[8]
Surge Studios and production
In 1980, Taylor and his partner Andrew "Drew" Okun (professionally known as Al Parker) founded Surge Studios.[9] While Parker was the "artist" and primary on-screen star, Taylor was widely regarded as the "business brains" behind the operation.[9] In addition to his business and production roles, Taylor served as the still photographer for Surge Studio films.[9] Despite his influence, Taylor was rarely pictured in print media and was often credited less frequently than his collaborators.[9] He was a key figure behind the scenes as the studio transitioned toward promoting safer sex practices in the early 1980s.[9]
Personal life
Taylor met Al Parker in 1973 while cycling in Hermosa Beach, California.[9] The two remained domestic and professional partners for nearly 14 years until Taylor's death.[10]
Death
Steve Taylor died on September 9, 1986, in Los Angeles, California, due to complications from AIDS and his remains were cremated and scattered at sea.[10]