Manipulated, Isolated, Pushed In: Mia Khalifa Reveals the Dark Reality Behind Her Viral Fame

In her interview on *Diary of a CEO*, Mia Khalifa explained that during her short time in the adult-film industry she felt “used like a toy,” emphasizing how vulnerable she had been at around 20 years old. She described lacking confidence, being easily influenced, and entering the industry at a point when she was seeking validation. She also said her then-partner encouraged and pushed her into situations she now recognizes as exploitative, comparing the dynamic to someone playing with a toy rather than treating her like an equal human being.

Her rapid rise to fame began in late 2014 after a controversial video featuring her wearing a hijab went viral, despite her participation lasting only a few months and involving a small number of scenes. The aftermath was intense: she faced death threats, estrangement from her family, and long-lasting consequences tied to the permanent nature of online content. Looking back, she has said that although she technically signed contracts, she did not fully understand the gravity of what she was agreeing to, and she believes the industry took advantage of that naivety.

Her reflections have become part of a wider discussion about how the porn industry can exploit young and insecure individuals who may not fully grasp the lifelong visibility and social impact of their decisions. By describing herself as “used like a toy,” she highlights the psychological and emotional toll — including shame, regret, harassment, and the loss of control over her image. Her story is frequently cited in conversations about consent, manipulation, and the ethical responsibilities surrounding adult content production and consumption.