Maitland Ward embraces the adult industry with more zealous adoration than she does her mainstream entertainment roots, which stretch from ’90s soap “The Bold and the Beautiful” to coming-of-age drama “Boy Meets World” and early 2000s flicks like the Wayans brothers’ “White Chicks.”
While she is grateful for the big- and small-screen success that buoyed her for years before she ventured into the New York theater scene and sharpened her writing chops at UCLA, she didn’t feel truly empowered until sexy cosplaying content sales led to a full-blown career in adult.
The rest is award-winning history, which is why it may come as no surprise that her upcoming memoir, which she locked down last year with Simon & Schuster and which comes out September 22, is titled “Rated X: How Porn Liberated Me From Hollywood.” This industry has embraced her and she has embraced it back, championing its virtues whenever the mainstream press or tabloids come sniffing for drama or clicks.
She stands firmly against the narratives peddled by the do-gooders who do worst, the censor-happy moralists, the drearily ignorant pundits and the clueless lawmakers. Because of her Hollywood past, they are more apt to listen, even as she pushes back against the backwards nature of such thinking. The adult industry deserves respect in her eyes, and she makes that clear time and again.
This past year, when she wasn’t filming two mega features in the form of sequel seasons for “Mistress Maitland” and “Muse,” each of which has amassed massive amounts of awards and netted her an abundance of “best acting” wins, Ward was busily writing her grand memoir in a feverish four-month burst of 10-hour days. Because yes, her writing is also remarkable, which makes her collaborative dynamic with Kayden Kross, repeatedly crowned Director of the Year, something beautiful to behold, as they craft bold visions of next-level eroticism.
Also last year, as the first-ever performer to claim the entire cover of XBIZ magazine in its two decades of history, Ward laid her heart and mind bare for the world in a far-ranging feature article that was but one of many feathers in her cap for 2021. She then went on to host the 2022 XBIZ Awards, days after holding court at the inaugural fan show X3 Expo in Hollywood.
In recognition of the many ceilings she shattered this year, as well as her singular ability to captivate the mainstream press with sex-positive verve, Ward was crowned Performer of the Year. Harken then to her reminiscences, her ponderings and her deeply felt musings, as she regales readers and admirers with this exclusive interview.
XBIZ: Talk about your collaborative approach to "Mistress Maitland 2" and "Muse 2" this year with Kayden Kross.
WARD: Both projects were so popular and well received in their first go-around that it seemed only natural to do second seasons of both. This year, I felt the characters were really sent in directions that made them extremely distinct from one another, even more than they already were. There were elements to the stories that Kayden carved out that made the divide pointed and really fun to play as an actress.
We also wanted to take each series and push boundaries to really make audiences feel and think, even if some of it might make them uncomfortable. I always find that a film or a character that has you thinking about it and what it all means — especially what it means to you personally well after it’s over — is something special.
It’s funny, because people really think I’m who I am on screen in real life and then they discover I’m pretty lighthearted and positive and even goofy. Yes, definitely goofy! But as an actress, to play exactly who I am in real life and to have a script molded “my type” would make me feel lazy and unchallenged. That’s why I left Hollywood in the first place. I always tell Kayden to make me as raw and twisted and troubled as possible and she always meets me there. We’ve been an amazing team in that way. We can challenge each other like no other.
And I like to challenge myself to play characters that aren’t just written to the strengths of what people know I can do. I want to play different characters and I really think we’ve achieved specific and profound characters in both of these projects that pushed both Kayden and I to really make something that could be viewed as porn but also celebrated in a mainstream realm.
“Mistress Maitland” is dark and unapologetic and in many ways fun in her wicked escapades. I love that while we see she has deep emotion and feelings, especially stemming from her childhood and early years, she is someone who is wild and untamed and delicious. While my character in “Muse” this season showed a vulnerability my “Mistress” character never would … and an emotion and brokenness, that along with her resilience and strength, allow her to pull herself up after a dramatic crashing down.
XBIZ: How did filming and acting for each title differ? Were there similarities and if so, what?
WARD: Expanding on what I said in the first question, it says something about women who can be strong and intense, but also have a million other different facets to their personality. It’s easy to fall into a one-note character. I was told by an amazing teacher when I was first acting that you need to make people experience all their senses — sound, sight, taste, touch — for them to be moved by a performance and to make it truly memorable.
Anyone can have a dramatic one-note outburst and think they’re acting but it’s in the subtle, more quiet moments where you reach the audience. It’s in the eyes, in the breath and in the pauses … in the trying to hold onto that outburst and then failing miserably, and then it’s in gathering yourself again. I think my character in “Muse” goes through every emotion possible. It was so amazing being able to play so many parts of this woman. I wanted to give her a big hug by the end of it. As Mistress Maitland, I’m not so worried about that. In her brokenness she’s an unapologetic, devious survivor. She will literally do and say anything and that’s what I love about her. She has such freedom. Though I think there is a sad side to her too, which we see in the monologues, but she won’t give way to vulnerability.
Again, no one is one note. We all experience every emotion. It’s up to the actor and the writer and the director to find differences in how each character experiences them.
XBIZ: Which other stars do you have strong onscreen chemistry with, and to what do you attribute that?
WARD: Manuel and I have great chemistry. And I really think it’s because he gives it to me as good as I give it to him. And I actually wasn’t referring to anything sexual there, but that too, haha. I mean to say that if I throw something emotional at him like anger or sadness or raw intensity, he’ll throw back that raw intensity, those emotions and reactions that will have me on my toes. And that’s good. He’s an excellent dance partner. And that’s really what this is all about, having someone you can dance with.
I always love Isiah Maxwell too. We have a natural chemistry and a good friendship and I think that knowing someone so well in your scenes and being able to trust like that really makes the work stand out.
XBIZ: How do you get into character and up your acting game with each production?
WARD: Honestly, except for studying my lines and practicing how I feel I should deliver them, it all comes together when I come to set and get into my wardrobe and makeup and hair. That’s when I can really crawl into my character’s skin and make the lines come alive. I have such intense characters with so many lines that I don’t often have time just to hang out on set and relax. I try to keep with the mood of my character, especially right before I take the stage to film a scene. I like to do my lines on stage a few times before I’m happy with them. Kayden knows I like my coverage last because of this. I need to swim in the words a bit because I really feel they get better the more I do them.
Most mainstream acting sets have rehearsals leading up to filming. In porn you have to be ready with it right on set, right away. That was probably the hardest thing for me to get used to. I think more porn feature productions would benefit from doing table reads ahead of time. I know it’s not possible for day-to-day scenes, but for the big features and projects I really wish they would, at least to get a feel for where the script and everyone is at.
I know there are so many talented performers in porn who may actually be more nervous because the script is given to them so last-minute and they don’t have a chance for a real rehearsal. Doing a full read and rehearsals would truly elevate everyone’s confidence and performance.
XBIZ: With several years now in the studio-shot side of adult entertainment, how has your perspective and personality changed since your initial foray into the biz?
WARD: I could never have imagined the journey I have been on. To think one month into the studio side of the adult industry and I was cast in such a huge film like “Drive.” I’ve taken every step of the way so seriously, and I’ve tried to learn and grow from it as an actor and as a performer. And I think I’ve really grown as both immensely.
Porn and Kayden have given me my most challenging acting roles and I’ll always be grateful for that. Never would I have dreamed I’d play such bold characters with such depth and darkness. It’s been such a joy to find and experience that place in myself. And now it’s amazing the world out there recognizes me as something more than a former sitcom star.
There are so many good and talented people in this business that I wish the world could see and I hope they will. It’s a really close family and I know to outsiders that would sound crazy, seeing that it’s porn, but it’s really true. And we really try to show that angle in my new sitcom, “The Big Time.” There are a lot of hardworking people who want to do good work and they should be recognized for that.
If you would’ve told me, or anyone, that I would have more respect and more opportunities in the world because I’ve done porn, I would never have believed it and I know the world wouldn’t have. But it’s so true now.
XBIZ: Let's talk about your independent content on OnlyFans, where you have more than 1 million likes. How have you kept fans engaged this year, while growing a following?
WARD: I can’t believe I’m at 1.2 million now and almost 1.3 million! My fans are the absolute greatest, most supportive and loving ever. I really try to keep my content authentic to me and personal. I love to connect with my fans, especially with live shows and custom content. But honestly, I just try to be me. And for the past four years, since I first started my Patreon account, that’s been the thing that has snowballed my career.
I have fans that are so genuine and are truly there for me. They always show up for me and show up in a big way. When we started out some seven or eight years ago doing cosplay and cheeky pics on Instagram and Snapchat, I never would’ve dreamed I’d be here now. And I have so many of those original fans, who still support me and fiercely have my back, to thank for it. And I do love all the new ones who have hopped on along the way.
XBIZ: What is your current strategy for social media marketing on Instagram and Twitter?
WARD: I always try to remain authentic. I post stuff I’m passionate about and also things that I’m working on. I find fans like the more personal pics where you don’t have any makeup and you’re sexy and free. I like to post stuff I just have fun with too. I don’t have a strategy, really, and I think that’s always been the key to my success when it comes to social media and content. I’m not one to post 20 times a day advertising my next OnlyFans scene.
I barely post about that twice a month unless there’s some live show or something going on and my OnlyFans keeps growing. If I planned it out too much it wouldn’t be authentic and in the moment. Sure, I know when projects are coming out and I know certain posts I’ll do with them. I definitely am a businesswoman. But honestly, my best stuff, that helps grow my accounts, is just me doing something funny or crazy or sexy last minute and posting it. I think fans can tell when you try too hard and aren’t genuine.
XBIZ: As a mainstream crossover star, you're frequently interviewed by the media at large. How do you decide which interviews to take, striving to ensure a sex-positive editorial outcome?
WARD: I have been so fortunate when it comes to the mainstream press. They have been, for the most part, so positive about me and my story. The “Drive” trailer still runs on every Daily Mail post about me, much the same as any other film trailer. When has a porn feature ever been given not only mainstream attention but real legitimacy like that? I think it’s all how you present it. If I was ashamed of what I do or tried to hide it or run from it, the press would definitely present it in a different light. But I’ve always embraced it and I do the best productions that I’m proud of. I’ve rarely had to turn down any interviews. I love talking about what I do to the press and I think they appreciate me being so open and positive about it and I appreciate them. I wouldn’t be where I am today without my fans and the press.
XBIZ: How do you handle analytics, as far as determining which traffic sources are most fruitful, adjusting your brand messaging — or not — based on data, etc.?
WARD: I definitely look to see when traffic is best or what pictures and videos had the most engagement. But again, I don’t get hung up on it. I will literally say I want to take a picture in my bikini on the beach and post it without any planning. I think remaining in the moment and being yourself is the best way to get traffic.
XBIZ: Discuss the writing process for your memoir, "Rated X: How Porn Liberated Me from Hollywood." How was the editing journey?
WARD: I wrote it in a little over four months straight, maybe close to five. I only took breaks when I was working. The rest of the time I was on my computer like 10 hours a day. It was a cathartic, amazing process. I recommend it to anyone to just write your life down and read it back. You’ll have whole new perspectives on yourself and your journey. I know I did. I saw experiences that I had, and relationships, in a whole new light. I don’t think I could have written it in pieces over a long period of time. It wouldn’t have flowed right and I got into a groove and rhythm that I think made the book that much better. I’m so proud and excited to share it with everyone!
XBIZ: Give us a glimpse of the main themes and stories you focus on in your memoir.
WARD: It’s my entire journey from my upbringing through my career in Hollywood, especially “Boy Meets World” and “White Chicks” and then how I was really forced out and not allowed to be the actor and performer I wanted to be. And then it takes you into my journey into the world of porn, starting with doing my own content and then landing in the industry, detailing all of my experiences, most importantly the ones making films like “Drive” and “Muse.” It has everything!
XBIZ: How has the public reception and hype been so far for your memoir?
WARD: It’s been overwhelming, I can’t believe how many people have pre-ordered it so far! We even pushed back the date to September 6, 2022 to make sure we could meet demand. I am so humbled and my heart is so warmed that there has been such an outpouring from people from all walks of life like this. I always say my fans are the greatest and it’s so true!
It’s funny, because I got a galley copy of my book and I was showing it to a good friend at lunch. He was thumbing through it and two other tables noticed the cover and were so intrigued by Rated X and what that meant; then after I talked about my journey, they wanted to know all about the world of porn. And they were so positive about it. That got me excited.
No matter how much is coming up against porn from certain groups and entities now, the world at large is changing in our favor. I truly believe that. Not one person talking to me was looking down at me or outraged by anything. They just really wanted to know. And they pre-ordered it on the spot!
XBIZ: What's next in your plans for getting the word out?
WARD: We have a lot of fun pre-order campaign stuff coming up, like contests, prizes, special games and clubs. I can’t wait until we get closer to the launch, and when the book comes out, to do the signings and meet fans. I think people from all walks of life are really going to identify with my story. Some may think that sounds ridiculous, because how can a regular, everyday person identify with being a porn star, but I’m serious.
It’s not just a story about porn, it’s a story about growing up in Hollywood and growing too old for it at 25. It’s a story about a journey to self-discovery and how sexual expression liberated me. It’s a story of a marriage and a relationship that grew and stretched for me to do this. It’s a story about an actress who wanted more and she found that more in porn.
I think everyone can identify with being dissatisfied with life and needing to find yourself. I think everyone has been told no when they still believed in their hearts there was a yes out there for them. Porn provided me that yes and I’ll always be so grateful for that.
XBIZ: What was it like becoming the first-ever performer to grace the entire cover of XBIZ magazine last year?
WARD: I was over the moon when I saw it. It’s such an honor to be set apart in such a unique and special way. You guys have always recognized me and appreciated what I was doing in this industry and for that I have been so grateful and humbled. To see my picture on your cover, like no other performer before, was an honor I’ve never experienced before. It really meant the world to me.
XBIZ: Discuss your preparation for hosting the 2022 XBIZ Awards, from filming the trailer to stepping on the grand stage. How did the evening go for you?
WARD: First of all, can I tell you what a beautiful monologue you wrote for me about acting and sex work? When I first read it, I had tears in my eyes because it said everything I truly feel in my heart. The words elevated the industry and spoke to the hearts of people out there who may not understand. I always believe that if you tell people something they won’t listen. But if you make them feel something, you can change their hearts. And I really think that monologue had that kind of impact. I was so proud to deliver it about an industry I’ve been so proud to be a part of. And especially for such a triumphant night in the world of adult entertainment.
I had so much fun doing the comedy skit too! It really took me back to my roots. Michael Vegas is hysterical to work with and we had a lot of fun with the script. I was so happy to do something so fun and cheeky like that. I was smiling the whole day and I think it turned out great.
I can tell you seeing my name in lights on the Palladium marquee was a moment I’ll never forget. I was so proud to have my name up there in lights as the host of such a big and important night. I have to admit, I was a little nervous ahead of time to command such a stage. I always am before a performance. But as soon as I walked out there and saw all the faces in the audience I felt immediately at home.
I was so proud to represent the industry in such a monumental way. And then to win two of the very biggest awards — Best Actress and Performer of the Year — was such a special and exciting thing. I know at one point I won and then momentarily forgot I was hosting. I had to run back on stage. It was so funny. I was on a major high.
XBIZ: Talk about your dynamic with the hubby and how you partner together for mutual happiness, improvement and success.
WARD: He has always been 100% supportive of my dreams and success. I couldn’t have taken this journey if he hadn’t been so supportive. I wouldn’t have put him through it if he was uncomfortable with anything. But he knew this is what I needed to do, that this would make me happy. I talk a lot about our relationship in the book, from our beginning to how we ended up on this wild journey. I think it’ll speak to all relationships. really.
XBIZ: How has your relationship with Kayden Kross strengthened over time?
WARD: We have been a pair like no other. We challenge each other and fuel each other to give our very best. I think we know each other well now, and that speaks through in our work. There’s a trust on set that allows me to sink into my vulnerability and emotion and perform freely. You don’t get that on most sets anywhere. I’m given freedom in my performances and I love that.
XBIZ: What are you looking forward to this year in the adult biz and in real life behind the scenes?
WARD: I am looking forward to whatever the year brings. I want to create projects and act both in porn and in mainstream. I am excited about my book later in the year, and it being a positive light for an industry that’s given me so much. I’m excited to be working on several mainstream feature projects I just signed on for. I really am going to just embrace everything life throws at me. I have my catcher’s mitt ready and I’m ready to throw.
