Michael Lucas (political activist)

Michael Lucas (born Michael Paciello, August 30, 1972) is an American film director, pornographic actor, businessman, and controversial political commentator known for his outspoken conservative views and criticism of progressive ideologies, particularly within the LGBT community.

Lucas rose to prominence in the gay adult entertainment industry, founding Lucas Entertainment, a studio specializing in high-budget, hardcore films targeting gay men. He achieved both success and notoriety for his business acumen and willingness to challenge industry norms.

In the late 2000s and early 2010s, Lucas began to increasingly voice his political opinions, diverging sharply from the generally left-leaning stance common within the LGBT community. He argued for free markets, limited government, and a strong national defense. He became a vocal critic of "political correctness" and what he perceived as the encroachment of progressive ideology into gay rights activism.

Lucas has been a frequent guest on conservative media outlets and has written opinion pieces for publications like The Wall Street Journal and The Daily Beast, often focusing on issues related to sexuality, culture, and politics. His viewpoints have generated significant controversy, leading to both support and strong opposition from individuals across the political spectrum. Critics have accused him of promoting harmful stereotypes and undermining LGBT equality, while supporters have lauded him for challenging prevailing narratives and fostering intellectual diversity.

His transition from a prominent figure in the gay adult film industry to a conservative commentator has made him a polarizing figure in both the LGBT community and broader political discourse.