Dino Phillips, a gay adult film performer, has passed away at the age of 55. News of his death, which was unexpected and sudden, was confirmed by friends and colleagues in the West Hollywood community via social media.

Career and Industry Recognition

Phillips, also known by his birth name Dimitri Perparos, was an active performer in the gay adult industry from the mid-1990s to 2009. He also appeared in the industry throughout the 1980s and 1990s.

During his career, Phillips worked for several gay legacy studios and lines. These included Video 10, Vivid Man, HIS, Hot Desert Knights, All Worlds Video, and Catalina Video. He appeared in notable productions such as “Nude Science,” “Biagra,” and “Rendezvous at the Golden Gate Bed & Breakfast.”

Phillips received industry accolades for his work. In 1997, he was awarded GayVN Best Supporting Actor for his role in "Happily Ever After," from the All Worlds Gold Collection line. A year prior, in 1996, Phillips was crowned Best Newcomer at The Grabbys.

AVN Hall of Fame director, DJ, and drag personality Chi Chi LaRue posted a headshot of Phillips from his performing days and the boxcover of "Happily Ever After." LaRue, who began directing at Catalina and later owned the All Worlds catalog when it was acquired by LaRue’s Channel 1 Releasing, wrote, “So sad R.I.P. Dino Phillips.”

Community Tributes and Support

Friends and colleagues in the West Hollywood community shared news of Phillips' passing on social media, emphasizing the sudden nature of the loss. The LGBTQ+ community is mourning his unexpected death.

A GoFundMe campaign has been organized by Mark Morris to help with final expenses and to provide a dignified farewell for Perparos. The campaign page, titled “Help Us Give Dimitri Perparos a Dignified Farewell,” states that his loved ones were left unprepared for funeral and mortuary costs due to the unforeseen nature of his death. The campaign seeks donations to “honor his memory with the dignity and grace he deserves.”

Mark Morris, a friend, described Phillips as “more than a friend” and stated, “He was family.” Morris wrote that Phillips' “compassion, laughter, and unwavering support touched countless lives,” adding, “Whether it was a shoulder to cry on, a helping hand, or a moment of joy, he gave freely and wholeheartedly. His beauty was not just in his appearance but in the way he made others feel seen, heard, and loved.”

Sabin Gray, a former colleague who worked with Phillips from 1980-1996, shared the link to the GoFundMe campaign. Gray stated, “Dino Phillips was a sweet guy who I always could depend on to help me out with charity fundraisers and events.” Gray also recalled a time visiting L.A. when he, Mickey Skee, and Phillips sat with director Jerry Douglass at the opening night of Jerry’s play about Deep Throat. Gray added, “Now sadly they are both gone. Please donate to help cover his final expenses if you can. Rest well sweet prince, you touched many lives with your kindness and will be missed ... feeling sad.”

Details of Passing

Phillips passed away at the age of 55. The cause of death was not reported but was described as unexpected and sudden. Further details surrounding Phillips' passing have not been publicly disclosed. Services are expected to be held privately.

Key Facts

  • Dino Phillips, also known as Dimitri Perparos, passed away at 55.
  • His death was unexpected and sudden.
  • Phillips was active in the gay adult industry from the 1980s through 2009.
  • He received GayVN Best Supporting Actor in 1997 and Best Newcomer at The Grabbys in 1996.
  • A GoFundMe campaign has been organized by Mark Morris to cover final expenses.
  • Tributes from colleagues like Sabin Gray and Chi Chi LaRue highlighted his kindness and contributions.