Adult entertainment has existed in various forms throughout history, but its modern iteration gained traction in the 20th century with the rise of cinema, print media, and later, the internet. The 1960s and 1970s marked a turning point with the legalization of X-rated films in the United States and the subsequent proliferation of adult content. The industry grew exponentially in the 1990s and 2000s with the advent of home video, followed by digital streaming and online platforms. Today, it is a multi-billion-dollar global enterprise, employing thousands, including performers like Ariella Ferrera and Johnny Sins.