An incredible story upset Italy and parents' morals as to whether a former porn star could become a university professor.
Ruggero Freddi is a 41-year-old mathematics professor who teaches Mathematical Analysis and Clinical Engineering at the University of Rome.
Ten years ago, however, he was known as Carlo Masi, and one of the most sought after pornographers. Until recently, this part of his past was known only to some porn lovers - his college students had no idea.
Some time ago, however, Freddi's past was made public when the Italian newspaper La Truthà posted a frame from one of his films on its front page. The front page sparked national controversy in the country over whether a former porn star should teach at the university.
Ruggero Freddi spoke to Vice Italy and commented on what it is like to be suddenly in the eye of the media cyclone about his past as a porn star and whether this changed his relationship with his students.
Hello, Ruggero.
How did it all start?
Many think it started with the article on La Truthà, but was preparing for some time on social media. Some students posted about a "muscular professor" on a university-related Facebook page - meaning me. There were a lot of comments on this post and in the end someone recognized me in one of the porn movies where I played.
You have just started teaching again. What was the reaction of your students?
It was fine. Of course there were some rude people who showed up and looked at me, but I ignored them. I received a lot of support from my colleagues and the person in charge of my position. They mostly tell me that they appreciate the positive message I went through through all this, about love.
Did you discuss it with your students?
Not at all. I only talk about math to my students. But I work with the university to organize conferences on HIV information.
How did you play in porn?
Random. Their talent scouts had seen some pictures of me on the internet and got in touch with me. I was flattered and said "yes" to a softcore movie, where I would only do a few preliminaries. I was not ready for hardcore porn yet - I had just gotten my PhD and did not know what I wanted to do with my life.
How long has your porn career lasted?
About six years - from 28 to 34.
Why did you stop;
I stopped at a time when, professionally, things were going very well for me. But I had some disagreements with COLT and as I was 34, I thought it was my last chance to start over and try a new career. So, I did it. For a while I tried to stay in the entertainment industry - TV, theater, things like that - but it didn't fill me up.
I soon realized that I wanted to return to academic work.
Do you ever miss him? The work environment, the job itself or the money?
Obviously I miss the money and the attention they give you when you are a porn star - the admiration of the fans, you do not have to wait in line to enter a club, things like that.