Former adult film performer Mia Khalifa has once again spoken openly about how little she earned during her short time in the industry—despite gaining billions of online views and global name recognition.

Khalifa appeared in adult films for only three months, completing around a dozen shoots. Even years after leaving the industry, she remained one of the most-viewed names on major adult websites. Many assumed this level of attention came with high pay. Khalifa says the truth is very different.

According to her own statements, she earned just $12,000 in total, or roughly $1,000 per shoot. She also confirmed she receives no residual payments from the websites that continue to host her videos. The content generates huge traffic and revenue for platforms, she says, while performers often see very little in return.

Industry figures have echoed her experience. Derek Hay, founder of LA Direct Models, told reporters that even the most recognizable adult stars rarely earn as much as the public believes. Some top performers may make several hundred thousand dollars a year, he said, but almost none reach the levels people imagine.

Khalifa has been vocal about the emotional toll of her experience. In past interviews and social posts, she has described those months as the “most toxic and uncharacteristic” period of her life. She has urged young women to stay away from the industry or, if they do participate, to maintain full control of their work and ownership.

Today, Khalifa continues to use her platform to warn others and to highlight the reality behind an industry that appears profitable from the outside but often leaves performers with long-lasting regrets and very little financial return.