Jake Corbin (born John Michael Avino; July 7, 1964 â September 27, 1992) was an American adult film actor, dancer, and AIDS activist. He was a prominent figure in the New York City gay adult film scene during the late 1980s and early 1990s, known for his work with directors such as Christopher Rage and his frequent appearances on The Robin Byrd Show.
John Michael Avino was born in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, and raised in Providence. Following high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army. During his service, he experienced a disciplinary incident where his pay was docked for punching a sergeant.
Avino's transition into adult entertainment began while he was still in the service; after visiting a clinic, a nurse suggested he pursue dancing at a local nightclub. He reportedly secured his discharge from the military after an encounter with a colonel.
In 1988, Avino moved to New York City and adopted the stage name Jake Corbin, which he took from a movie credit. He worked extensively as a stripper and escort in prominent Manhattan venues such as The Works and The Break, and toured gay clubs across the United States.
Corbin's film career began in 1988 with a solo performance in While I Was Shooting Stars, directed by Christopher Rage. He became a frequent guest on The Robin Byrd Show, where he was known for his "street tough" New England accent and candid wit regarding the adult industry. Throughout the late 1980s, he performed in several high-profile videos for studios including Falcon Studios and Catalina Video.
Corbin was a dedicated member of ACT UP/New York. He utilized his public profile to support AIDS awareness, performing as a stripper at numerous AIDS fundraisers. He was an active participant in major political demonstrations, including protests at New York State Capitol in Albany, New York City Hall, The International AIDS Conference in Montreal and St. Patrick's Cathedral.
Following a diagnosis of HIV/AIDS, Corbin moved back to Rhode Island in January 1992 to be with his family after a bout of pneumonia. He died of AIDS-related complications on September 27, 1992, at the age of 28.