LOS ANGELES, Calif. – Trans adult industry pioneer Steven Grooby received the Pineapple Award at the recent XBIZ Honors event in Hollywood, recognizing his contributions to the trans adult entertainment community that go well beyond the content his studio produces. The award was presented to Grooby by Pineapple Support founder, Leya Tanit.
“I’m overwhelmed by the words that Leya spoke about me, extremely honored and just a little embarrassed by this recognition which came as a complete surprise,” Grooby said. “Thank you so much to Leya and the Pineapple Support Board as I’m confident there are so many of my peers who are equally deserving of this recognition.
“I’d like to recognize and thank the amazing team I’ve had behind me, many of them for decades and of course, every trans adult performer we’ve worked with, and we will continue to do our best to platform, protect and enable trans persons in the adult industry,” Grooby added.
Tanit explained that the Pineapple Award “exists to recognize people who quietly change lives, and Steven embodies that in every sense.”
“Through Grooby and the TEAs (Trans Erotica Awards), he has created genuinely safe, accessible spaces where trans creators are seen, respected, and celebrated,” Tanit added. “At a time when trans communities are facing increasing discrimination and hostility, this work isn’t just important, it’s essential. Having known Steven for many years, it was a real honor to be able to present this award to him and recognize the depth of care and integrity he brings to our community.”
This year marks a milestone for Grooby, the studio’s 30th anniversary since its launch in 1996. Earlier this month, the studio kicked off its anniversary celebration with the release of a return scene starring award-winning performer Aubrey Kate. Grooby noted at the time that the studio has more “special content planned for the year ahead.”
Grooby also recently announced the full list of nominees for the upcoming TEAs, with the annual awards show scheduled for March 8 at the historic Avalon theater in Hollywood, along with the official pre-party, which will take place at the Bardot, the Avalon’s connecting property, on March 6.
For more information on the studio and the upcoming awards show, go to Grooby.com and TheTEAShow.com. For more information about Pineapple Support and the services provided by the organization, go to PineappleSupport.org.
