Scorpio, whose real name was Wilbur James Weiss, Jr., was born on November 1, 1952, in Trenton, New Jersey. He became a notable figure in gay adult films during the 1970s and early 1980s. Leaving home at 18, he worked as a roller derby skater, held low-wage jobs, and stripped in straight New Jersey clubs before coming out as gay. He then performed in gay clubs, adopting the stage name 'Scorpio' and a scorpion tattoo on his right bicep. His mother supported his career, attending shows and making costumes. Relocating to New York City, he modeled for catalogs—famously carrying a stuffed teddy bear named Baxter—and starred in films by directors like Jack Deveau, Arch Brown, and Christopher Rage. Notable works include 'Centurians of Rome,' 'All Tied Up,' 'Boots and Saddles,' and 'Leather Lover.' His career declined post-1985 amid the AIDS epidemic. He moved to Florida, worked in adult bookstores and as a hair stylist, and tried comebacks. Scorpio died on December 24, 1998, in Pensacola, Florida, at 46 from stomach cancer and AIDS complications.
