Simon Rex has reinvented himself in the entertainment industry five times over, starting his career as an adult-movie star, then switching to modeling, video jockeying, acting, rapping, and running his own podcast, Nervous Rex.
After starring in pornographic films, Rex took his girlfriend to a modeling audition, which earned him placements with Calvin Klein, Levi’s, Versace, and a tour with Tommy Hilfiger. He ended up interviewing with MTV, and they liked him so much, he was offered a two-year position as a network VJ. This propelled Rex into the spotlight, even getting the attention of the casting directors for Good Will Hunting. Although he didn’t land the part, this stemmed his interest in acting.
His first TV opportunity was guest-starring on Baywatch. Three years later, he landed roles in Felicity (Eli), Katie Joplin (Tiger French) and Jack & Jill (Mikey Russo). Along with many guest-star appearances, Rex starred as Jeff Campbell in What I Like About You and Eddie Lucas in Monarch Cove. His transition to film happened organically, starring in National Lampoon’s Pledge This!, as well as a comedic, Eminem-like role in the Scary Movie franchise, where he realized his passion for rap. He starred in three of the Scary Movie films, among others. His latest TV appearance was co-starring on Comedy Central’s Typical Rick.
Under his new moniker “Dirt Nasty,” Rex created three solo rap albums, and albums with both the Dyslexic Speedreaders and Three Loco. With Dyslexic Speedreaders, he toured with the Red Hot Chili Peppers as their opening act in front of 70,000 people. Additionally, his music has been seen in The Hangover, and he’s collaborated with big names including Kesha, LMFAO, Lil Jon, Diplo, and more. He can also be seen in music videos like Kesha’s “Tik Tok” and LMFAO’s “Sexy and I Know It.”