Desiree West

Desiree West is a notable figure in the adult film industry, recognized for her pioneering contributions as a retired porn star. She embarked on her career in 1973, becoming the first African-American actress to make a significant impact in adult films. Although she semi-retired in 1980, she continued to make occasional appearances in select films throughout the early 1980s. In addition to her film work, West was featured in various men's magazines, including Casanova, Cavalier, Game, and Player.

Despite her talent and ability to deliver dialogue effectively, West often found herself cast in secondary roles, never quite achieving the level of fame that her skills warranted. It wasn't until 2004 that she received the recognition she deserved; that year, a compilation of her work was released under the title *Double-D Soul Sister: A Desiree West Collection*, finally giving her the top billing she had long earned.

In recognition of her contributions to the industry, the X-Rated Critics Organization honored Desiree West in 1997 by inducting her into the XRCO Hall of Fame, solidifying her legacy as a trailblazer in adult entertainment. Her journey reflects both the challenges and triumphs faced by women in the industry, as she carved out a space for herself in a predominantly male-dominated field.