Colton Ford, the acclaimed gay adult film star turned singer-songwriter and actor, has died at the age of 63. Born Glenn Soukesian, his passing was confirmed by close friends and fellow entertainers via emotional tributes on social media. According to updates from friends and his Wikipedia profile, Ford died on Wednesday, May 19, 2025. Though details are still emerging, early reports suggest that his death was the result of a tragic hiking accident over the weekend.
Renowned adult film director and DJ Chi Chi LaRue expressed his sorrow in a heartfelt post: “I’m so shocked and saddened to hear and report the sudden passing of my friend and icon Glen aka Colton Ford! You will be missed. Keep singing in heaven!”
Another close friend, Tim Wood, offered a deeply personal tribute, writing, “While we don’t have all the details, I never would have dreamed that the photo below of Glenn Soukesian (Colton Ford) and I from 3 weeks ago would be our last. Glenn was involved in a tragic hiking accident this past weekend that took his life. He was a brilliant artist who always kept a song in his heart. Sweet, funny, kind, sassy—and hopelessly handsome. One of my best friends, a man who helped save my life many years ago.”
Born in 1961, Glenn Soukesian—known professionally as Colton Ford—first rose to fame in the gay adult film industry. His charismatic screen presence and powerful persona led to widespread acclaim, culminating in winning the 2003 GayVN Award for “Gay Performer of the Year.” His work in adult films, including titles like Conquered, Gang Bang Café, and Colton, made him a standout figure in LGBTQ+ adult entertainment.
However, Ford’s ambitions extended far beyond the adult film world. In 2005, he was featured in Naked Fame, a documentary that captured his departure from adult films and his transition into mainstream music. It offered an intimate look at the challenges of redefining one’s identity in a highly public space, and showcased Ford’s dedication to his artistry and authenticity.
His music career was as bold and dynamic as his on-screen work. Ford released several well-received albums and singles, including Tug of War (2008), Under the Covers (2009), The Way I Am (2013), and The Next Chapter EP (2015). Collaborating with music legends like Frankie Knuckles and Cyndi Lauper, he brought a soulful voice and unapologetic queerness to the dance and pop music scenes. His tracks found success on Billboard’s dance charts and earned him a devoted fanbase.
Ford also made significant contributions to television and theater. He starred for three seasons as Sheriff Trout in the cult supernatural series The Lair on here! TV and appeared in the chat show Threesome. On stage, he made his off-Broadway debut in Little House on the Ferry (2011) and later took a leading role in And All The Dead, Lie Down (2014) in Los Angeles.
Throughout his multifaceted career, Ford remained a proud and visible figure in LGBTQ+ entertainment. He continually challenged stereotypes, embraced reinvention, and celebrated authenticity. Whether on a stage, in a studio, or on screen, his message was consistent: live boldly, love openly, and express yourself without fear.
As news of his passing continues to spread, fans, friends, and fellow performers are mourning the loss of a singular talent and deeply cherished human being. While further details on his death have yet to be confirmed, Colton Ford’s legacy will endure through his music, performances, and the countless lives he inspired simply by being himself.
