The adult entertainment industry and the trans community are mourning the loss of Apollo Moon, a groundbreaking performer and advocate.
Moon, whose real name was Forest Harader, passed away on December 2 at just 26 years old. His death was confirmed by loved ones through the outlet Them.
Moon had been hospitalized in intensive care since November 27, though the cause of his death has not been disclosed.
His family shared the news on the support platform Meal Train, where they launched a fundraiser to help cover expenses during the crisis. The fundraiser has since raised over $15,000.
In their post, the Harader family described the moment they learned of Moon’s hospitalization, calling it “unexpected and devastating.”
They noted that his parents and sister, Risa, would be taking extended leaves from work and expressed gratitude for the support they’ve received during this trying time.
Apollo Moon, who debuted in the adult industry in 2022, quickly became one of the most prominent trans-masculine performers.
He was celebrated not only for his work but also for his visibility as a person of color in a predominantly white industry.
Just two months ago, he made history as the first FTM (female-to-male) performer featured on the popular adult platform Brazzers.
The company released a statement honoring Moon: “We are devastated to learn of Apollo’s passing. Apollo’s passion touched so many in this industry and beyond. Our thoughts are with Apollo’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Friends and colleagues have taken to social media to honor Moon’s memory. Fellow adult performer Gwen Adora expressed her grief on X (formerly Twitter), saying: “Forever in peace, may you dance among the stars.”
Cher Mii, another trans adult-content creator, reflected on their friendship, sharing: “Sitting here listening to all the silly audio messages we used to leave each other, still in disbelief. I love this man dearly. There is so much I could say but words would do little justice in properly conveying the depth of this loss.”
Austin King, writer and founder of the adult industry news platform PornCrush, also confirmed Moon’s passing, sharing a tribute article that included heartfelt messages from peers like Zariah Aura and Kira Noir.
Zariah spoke of Moon’s relentless advocacy for trans rights: “He didn’t ask for respect—he demanded it for all of us. His advocacy was his body, his energy, his love. He wanted to make sure that every trans person got the love they deserved. Apollo wanted a trans revolution—and he’s going to get it.”
Kira Noir, who had worked with Moon, recounted her last conversation with him: “He was a true friend, the kind of person who was just fine with being a shoulder to cry on. We talked about hanging out more and the plans that we had for the rest of the year. I can’t believe he’s gone.”
Moon’s influence extended beyond his work. Friends described him as someone who loved nature, camping, and hiking. He was also a celebrated participant in Los Angeles’ T-boy wrestling event earlier this year, where he took home a crown in a viral moment of joy and triumph.
On social media, Moon often shared uplifting messages with his community. In a poignant post last week, he wrote: “Being trans has brought me so much joy, and there was nothing in this world that made me happier than sharing that experience with my community… I wish I could hug every trans person in the world right now and tell them I love them.”
Apollo Moon’s passing is a profound loss to the trans and adult entertainment communities, where he was known as a kind-hearted trailblazer and an unyielding advocate for inclusivity. His memory lives on in the stories shared by friends, family, and fans.
For those who wish to support the Harader family, donations are still being accepted on the Meal Train page. As Moon’s loved ones navigate this painful chapter, the world remembers him as a shining light who sought to make his community a better, more loving place.