‘Girls Gone Wild’ Creator Doesn’t Regret Exploiting Young Women

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As a seasoned movie reviewer with decades of witnessing the evolution of adult entertainment, I must say that the new Peacock docuseries, “Girls Gone Wild: The Untold Story,” has certainly stirred up some old memories. This series brings us back to an era when the infamous franchise, “Girls Gone Wild,” revolutionized (or perhaps debased, depending on your perspective) the industry with its provocative videos and late-night TV presence.

The landscape of Adult Entertainment underwent a significant transformation with the emergence of the video series Girls Gone Wild, introduced by Joe Francis in 1997. This video series gained momentum through its late-night TV appearances, particularly infomercials that contributed to its growing popularity. Now, Peacock’s new docuseries, titled Girls Gone Wild: The Untold Story, delves into the controversial history of this franchise, discussing allegations of exploitation against the young women involved in the videos. For the first time, Francis is publicly addressing these claims, and it’s worth noting that he does not express remorse.

During the late ’90s and early 2000s, there was little recognition of the questionable aspects of Girls Gone Wild, a production that often showcased college-aged women stripping on camera while displaying wild behavior, typically during Spring Break or Mardi Gras. The business later filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2013 and primarily sells its videos through their website as streaming downloads and DVDs. In the aftermath of the #MeToo movement, public perception of Girls Gone Wild has shifted significantly, particularly when underage girls were alleged to have been exploited in the series. Since then, creator Joe Francis has largely avoided the spotlight due to legal issues, but he has returned with a new series on Peacock.

In the documentary series, as reported by Entertainment Weekly, Francis takes part in an exclusive audio conversation with journalist Scaachi Koul to delve into the topic of Girls Gone Wild. At a certain point, Francis is questioned about whether he feels remorseful for the potential underage girls who might have been manipulated by cameramen coercing them into inappropriate behavior with the aid of alcohol. In a straightforward response, Francis states, “No, because I don’t think they were victimized. They victimized me.” Francis is referring to a 2008 verdict stemming from an incident in 2003, when the Girls Gone Wild crew filmed underage women partaking in sexual acts during a vacation in Panama City, Florida. The girls involved all turned out to be minors at the time of the filming, which eventually led to accusations against Francis and the company. Upon learning that the girls were too young to consent to such activities, Francis reiterated his denials.

No, they were almost 18, turning 18 soon. They were the ones who harmed us. Many of us think they were set up by the police in Panama City, and it seems like a planned operation. So, I believe that situation was carefully arranged. I stumbled into a dangerous trap, alright?

Joe Francis Has Never Expressed Regret About ‘Girls Gone Wild’

It’s not surprising that Francis, who has shown little remorse for the potential impact of Girls Gone Wild on its participants, some of whom were underage, continues to hold this perspective. With a reported net worth of $150 million from the success of Girls Gone Wild, any regret he may have felt likely pale in comparison to his wealth. Unlike other crew members who have expressed regret for tactics like targeting intoxicated young women during spring break, Francis remains unapologetic and takes pride in the empire he built.

In fact, he seems to think he paved the way for Kim Kardashian’s sex tape. Said Francis:

Relaxing the rules seemed to bring about a more playful era. In my opinion, it truly fostered a more enjoyable generation, giving rise not only to the vibrant Kardashian clan but also contributing significantly to our society and lifestyle in numerous ways.

Francis may think he led some kind of sexual revolution, but Girls Gone Wild honestly appealed to the lowest common denominator, and definitely didn’t empower its participants. Many women who work in adult entertainment have spoken about feeling liberated and empowered by their careers. It doesn’t seem like the same will ever be said of Girls Gone Wild.

In a twist of fate or perhaps karma, Francis has been living in self-imposed exile in Mexico since 2014 due to an outstanding warrant. This stems from a controversial incident in Panama City, Florida in 2003, which led to Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) charges, eventually resulting in misdemeanor child abuse and prostitution allegations. Francis admitted no wrongdoing, but he has faced similar charges in the past, for which he confessed. This scandal has cast a long shadow over his life, a reality that those unfortunate enough to be associated with him during his “more fun” era are painfully aware of.

Girls Gone Wild: The Untold Story
is currently streaming on Peacock

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2024-12-03 21:31