OnlyFans—the digital age’s answer to “What if I could monetise my, erm, ‘charms’ without leaving the house?” It’s the platform where creators share content with paying subscribers. And let’s be honest, when you hear about someone raking in crazy money every month just by being themselves (albeit, a bit unclothed), it’s hard not to ponder, “Am I in the wrong profession?”
The autonomy OnlyFans offers is undeniably appealing. Creators set their own terms, work from wherever, and engage directly with their audience. Financially, the success stories are jaw–dropping. Some top creators reportedly earn over £100,000 annually.
Meanwhile, here I am, calculating that with my current savings, I’ll be able to retire comfortably about 27 years posthumously. (Yes, that’s part of my stand–up routine, but like all jokes, there’s a kernel of truth.)
But before we all quit our day jobs and invest in ring lights, it’s crucial to note that the average OnlyFans creator earns about £150 to £180 per month. So, while some might be buying yachts, most are barely covering their Netflix subscription. The platform’s income distribution heavily favours the top 1%, who earn a whopping 33% of the total revenue.
So, the dream of easy money might just be that—a dream.
Then there’s the moral conundrum. Society has a long–standing hang–up about sex work, shrouded in taboos and judgment. Personally, I believe that sex work is work. If it’s safe and consensual, who is anyone else to judge? Life is short; if you’ve got the assets and the audience, why not capitalise on them?
However, it’s essential to acknowledge that sex workers face significant risks, including, for example, a higher likelihood of violence and mental health challenges. A friend of mine works in the industry, and I constantly worry about her. The lack of regulation means there’s little protection against exploitation and abuse. Studies have shown that sex workers are 18 times more likely to be murdered than women in other professions. Added to that, the criminalisation of sex work often leaves workers vulnerable, as they fear seeking help from exactly the powers that should be there to protect them. It’s all a bit broken.
On a lighter note, one of my biggest fears about joining OnlyFans isn’t baring it all—it’s baring it all and hearing crickets. Absolute tumbleweed. Imagine putting yourself out there, only to have two subscribers: your best friend and some bot named “HotGuy123.” Talk about a blow to the ego.
Watching shows like Olivia Attwood: Getting Filthy Rich showcases individuals earning staggering amounts from their bedrooms. It’s enough to make anyone question their life choices. Here I am, spending half my life in traffic, hopping from gig to gig, making strangers laugh (which I genuinely love) but could I be earning ten times more by staying home with a strategically placed camera, making strangers… well, you get the gist?
OnlyFans offers a tantalising glimpse into a world of autonomy and potential wealth. But like any job, it’s not without its challenges and risks. Like any job, there are pros and cons, and like any job, ideally, you want it to align with your values, and provide safety and security. (Just not tumbleweed.)
Listen to my Avoid Excessive Cleavage podcasts.