Marius Rohde: At Eighteen, I Chose Sex Work

At 18, Marius Rohde turned curiosity into a calling. While most of his peers were figuring out university majors or side hustles, he launched a career in erotic content creation – by choice, not by necessity. Today, he’s one of the most recognisable gay creators on BestFans, Germany’s answer to OnlyFans, building a brand defined by aesthetics, authenticity, and unapologetic queerness. In this candid interview, Rohde opens up about navigating stigma, setting boundaries, and why being real is the boldest move in the adult industry.

Marius Rohde
Marius Rohde

Suport Donate GAY45

Marius Rohde was 18 when he began expressing his sexuality through erotic creative content. Starting out of curiosity, he soon developped a clear vision: work independently, be self-sufficient, and portray a genuine image of gay identity. Today, Marius has a large and loyal community on the platform BestFans, marketed as a German alternative to the content creation site OnlyFans.

In this interview, he discusses the challenges of building a career in adult content, dealing with prejudice, navigating his relationship, and the reality of life as a creator – plus why authenticity and integrity are more important than ever in his industry.

Fruzsina Lederer (FL): Marius, what made you want to become a creator on BestFans? Was there a specific moment or trigger?

Marius Rohde (MR): I realised pretty early on that I wanted to explore my sexuality creatively and present myself confidently. I started producing adult content at 18 – at first out of curiosity, but also because I wanted to be financially independent. The turning point was realising that I can work on my own terms and build something doing what I enjoy and what I was already often complimented on.

FL: How did you find your niche or style on the platform?

MR: That developed over time. I experimented a lot and paid attention to how my followers reacted. My style is very personal – I care about aesthetics, intimacy, and authenticity. I don’t just show myself as sexy but as a whole person, with everything that comes with it. I think that’s what makes my content relatable and sets me apart.

FL: What were the biggest challenges in establishing yourself as a creator?

MR: Definitely the beginning – getting visibility, building reach, dealing with prejudice, and staying authentic all at once. It’s not easy to stand out in an industry that’s often underestimated but highly competitive. Finding the right balance between closeness and boundaries with the community was also tricky.

FL: What does your day-to-day work look like? How many hours do you work per week?

MR: People really underestimate how much work goes into content creation. Between planning, production, editing, fan communication, community management, and marketing, I work at least 40 to 60 hours a week, sometimes more when new projects are in the pipeline.

FL: How did your personal circle react to your work as a creator? Does everyone know?

MR: My closest friends fully support me. With my family, it was a process. Not everyone understood right away why I do this. But over time, they saw that I’m doing my thing and succeeding. Today, everyone knows, and I’m glad I can live honestly.

FL: Do you feel pressure within the queer scene to live up to certain ideals?

MR: Yes, definitely. Especially as a gay creator, there’s noticeable pressure to fit certain body ideals or sexual roles. I try not to follow those blindly and stay true to myself. But I won’t lie, it’s not always easy.

FL: How has your approach to sexuality changed since becoming a creator?

MR: I’m much more confident now. I used to be insecure, but I’ve learned to accept myself and set clear boundaries. Sexuality is no longer taboo for me.

FL: How much can a gay content creator earn per month?

MR: It varies depending on how much time, energy, and strategy you invest. I now earn in the five-figure range per month, a number I’m very grateful for. But it didn’t happen overnight. It took years of building my community.

FL: How do you deal with public perception and prejudice about your work? What kinds of stereotypes do you encounter?

MR: I face prejudice with openness. Many people think working in this space makes you shallow or desperate but it actually requires a lot of professionalism and courage. I try to show through how I present myself that you can have integrity in this industry too.

FL: You’re currently in a relationship. How does your work as a content creator affect it? Do you have agreements or boundaries?

MR: Our relationship is built on trust and communication. Of course, we openly discuss boundaries and what’s okay for both of us. We have clear agreements, and I never involve my partner in my work without asking. Finding that balance takes work – but it’s doable.

FL: How does your partner feel about your work?

MR: He supports me and sees how much passion I put into it. Sure, there are moments of discussion, but overall he knows I’m being real and honest with him. That builds trust.

FL: Have there been situations where your work caused tension or misunderstandings in the relationship?

MR: Yes, especially when boundaries weren’t totally clear or when outside opinions influenced us. But we keep learning, we talk honestly, and we find solutions together.

FL: How do you view LGBTQ+ representation on platforms like OnlyFans or BestFans? Is there room for improvement?

MR: Queer creators definitely have more visibility on these platforms compared to many other media. But stereotypes and inequalities still exist—like who gets to be successful and how diversity is portrayed. We need more variety and real stories.

FL: Do you feel your work contributes to LGBTQ+ visibility and acceptance?

MR: Yes, I think so. I show that queer sexuality can be lived confidently, aesthetically, and respectfully. A lot of followers have told me that I’ve given them courage to embrace who they are. That’s a beautiful side effect of what I do.

FL: What advice would you give other gay men who want to pursue a similar path?

MR: Be clear about your motivations, know your boundaries, and invest in quality and building your community. It’s not just about looks—it’s about creating real connection. And: don’t let anyone change who you are. Authenticity pays off in the long run.

FL: How do you feel about the fact that content on the internet can live forever?

MR: That’s something I was aware of from the beginning. I stand by what I publish. Still, I’m careful about what I show and I have clear lines I won’t cross.

FL: What do you do in your free time?

MR: I love being out and about in Berlin, whether at queer events, galleries, or just hanging out with friends in the park. I try to take regular breaks, travel, exercise, or explore creativity away from social media.

FL: You live in Berlin, a city often seen as especially sex-positive and open. How do you personally experience that atmosphere?

MR: Berlin is a place of freedom for me. You can be who you are here, without hiding. The city thrives on its diversity and openness. Of course, there are also challenges, like when queer life gets commercialised or new norms emerge. But overall, it’s an inspiring place.

 

GAY45 is committed to publishing a diversity of journalism, prose, and poetry. We’d like to hear your thoughts about this or any of our articles. And here’s our email if you want to send a letter: [email protected].

– – –

When we learn of a mistake, we acknowledge it with a correction. If you spot an error, please let us know.

– – –

Listen to our podcast ‘Gen Clash: Queer Perspectives on Current Affairs’ on your favourite podcast platform. 

– – –

We appreciate it. Thanks for reading.

Author

  • Fruzsina "Fru" Lederer is former journalist who now works at the intersections of media, advocacy, and adult industry representation. With a strong commitment to supporting sex work acceptance and amplifying marginalised voices, Fru brings both empathy and experience to conversations that matter.



    View all posts
Did we mention we accept donations? Indeed, love.

If this story matters to you, help us tell the next one — donate what you can today.

Support GAY45
Follow on Feedly