Rissa May is an American adult film actress and model who has quickly risen to prominence in the adult entertainment industry since her debut in 2023. Known for her vibrant personality, natural physique, and versatile performances, she has become a fan favorite and a sought-after performer. This biography provides a detailed, factual look at her early life, career beginnings, and professional achievements, offering insight into her journey in the adult industry.
Early Life and Background
Rissa May was born on January 14, 2005, in a small town in Michigan, USA. Growing up in a modest community, she experienced a typical Midwestern childhood. During her school years, Rissa was involved in cheerleading, a passion she pursued until the eighth grade. She has described herself as a spirited and outgoing individual, though she later embraced a more rebellious streak, identifying as a “stoner” during her teenage years. This shift marked a departure from her cheerleading days, as she explored her interests in music, relaxation, and spending time with her dog. Her early experiences in Michigan shaped her confident and carefree persona, which later translated into her on-screen presence.
Rissa’s academic performance was strong, with reports indicating she earned As and Bs throughout high school. Initially, she planned to follow in her brother’s footsteps, who received a full scholarship to Michigan State University for nursing. However, her trajectory changed in the spring of 2023, just before her high school graduation, when she began exploring opportunities in the adult entertainment industry.
Entry into the Adult Industry
Rissa May’s entry into adult entertainment was both deliberate and serendipitous. In April 2023, shortly before turning 18, she began posting nude photos online, a decision influenced by her long-standing interest in adult content, which she admitted to exploring as early as elementary school. This bold move caught the attention of a talent agency, and by May 2023, she had submitted an application to enter the industry professionally. Her debut came on June 5, 2023, with Backroom Casting Couch, where she filmed two scenes: “Learning the Hard Way” and “Willing to Do Anything.” These initial performances showcased her enthusiasm and comfort on camera, earning her immediate recognition.
Her debut was a pivotal moment, as she balanced her first adult shoot with her high school graduation. On the day of her second shoot in Detroit, Rissa drove 154 miles back to her hometown to attend her graduation ceremony, a testament to her ability to juggle her emerging career with personal milestones. This duality—performing in explicit scenes while maintaining a “normal” life—highlighted her adaptability and ambition.
Career Highlights and Performances
Since her debut, Rissa May has built an impressive portfolio, appearing in over 100 scenes by the end of 2024. Her rapid rise is attributed to her natural charisma, striking physical attributes, and willingness to explore a wide range of genres. Standing out with her 32DD all-natural breasts and curvaceous figure, Rissa has worked with major studios such as Bang Bros, Nubiles, Team Skeet, Lubed, Breed Me, and Badoink. Her performances span various styles, from lighthearted and playful to intense and kinky, catering to diverse audience preferences.
Notable scenes include collaborations with prominent performers like Isiah Maxwell in “My Asshole. It Just Looks Abused” (2023), Jay Bangher in “Barely 18 on the Bus” (2023), and Oliver Flynn in “My Stepsister’s Warm and Moist Cookie” (2023). She has also worked with Ryan McLane and Hadley Haze in “Unnatural Conception – Breeding Rissa May” (2023). Her versatility is evident in her ability to perform in anal, interracial, threesome, and roleplay scenes, often incorporating elements like bondage, slapping, and choking, which she has openly expressed enjoying.
In 2024, Rissa was named Nubiles’ first “Flavor of the Month,” a recognition that underscored her growing popularity. She also returned for her third scene with Hookup Hotshot, solidifying her status as a performer comfortable with high-intensity roles. Her work with director Mike Adriano, with whom she filmed approximately 15 scenes, has been particularly well-received, with Adriano praising her natural appeal and genuine enjoyment of her work.
Personal Interests and Lifestyle
Outside of her professional life, Rissa May maintains a relatively low-key lifestyle. She enjoys relaxing with marijuana, a habit she developed during her teenage years, and spending time with her dog. Music is another passion, with Rissa often blasting her favorite tunes during downtime. These interests reflect her laid-back yet vibrant personality, which resonates with fans and colleagues alike.
Her close friend and roommate, adult performer Penelope Woods, has described Rissa as a “yes” girl, eager to take on new challenges in the industry. However, Woods also advised her to pace herself to avoid burnout, a testament to Rissa’s enthusiasm and dedication. Despite her rapid success, Rissa has expressed moments of self-doubt, initially worrying she “wasn’t pretty enough” for the industry—a concern quickly dispelled by her widespread acclaim.
Industry Reception and Future Prospects
Rissa May’s impact on the adult industry has been significant, with performers and directors praising her professionalism and natural talent. Isiah Maxwell, AVN’s reigning Male Performer of the Year, noted her maturity, describing her as having the “persona and aura” of someone older than her 18 years. Her ability to connect with co-stars and deliver authentic performances has made her a favorite among directors like Mike Adriano, who values her genuine enthusiasm.
Her booking schedule reflects her demand, with reports indicating that by late 2023, studios needed to reserve her two months in advance. This level of popularity within 18 months of her debut earned her a nomination for Best New Starlet, cementing her status as a rising star. Industry peers, including Lilly Bell and Scarlett Alexis, have commended her polished performances, noting that she entered the industry as a “ready-made” talent.
Looking ahead, Rissa May’s career trajectory suggests continued growth. Her willingness to explore diverse roles, from softcore to hardcore, positions her as a versatile performer capable of sustaining a long career. While she has not yet ventured into mainstream softcore platforms like MetArt or Femjoy, fans have expressed hope for such appearances, indicating her broad appeal.
Conclusion
Rissa May’s journey from a small-town Michigan cheerleader to a celebrated adult film actress is a story of ambition, confidence, and natural talent. Since her debut in June 2023, she has captivated audiences with her striking physique, engaging personality, and fearless approach to her craft. With over 100 scenes, multiple studio collaborations, and industry accolades, Rissa has established herself as a formidable presence in adult entertainment. Her ability to balance intense performances with a relatable, down-to-earth persona makes her a standout figure. As she continues to evolve, Rissa May remains a name to watch in the industry.
