Genre Model Sues Magazine for Gay Harassment

A model for Genre magazine who claims a series of provocative photos intended for his personal use were reprinted without his permission is suing the magazine after he says he was subjected to unwanted advances and harassment from gay men.

Benjamin Massing appeared in the magazine's March-April issue in what he considers to be a "cruel and vulgar" shot. Now, according to Queerty.com, he's suing the magazine and photographer Rick Day for invasion of privacy.

Massing, who is straight, is majoring in molecular biology at the University of Southern Florida. Lawyers for the 20-year-old college student say the photo spread, which flanked advertisements for sex toys and lubricant, has made it difficult for Massing to book jobs.

The suit alleges Massing has been subjected to sexual solicitations from strangers and the model claims he's suffered humiliation and damage to his career as a result of the photo spread.

"It's definitely put him in a class where he's going to have difficulty obtaining contracts for family-related shows," lawyer Liah Catanese told New York's Daily News.

Previously, Massing appeared almost in the buff for another beefcake publication -- an Abercrombie & Fitch catalog. The model also appeared in a spread for an issue of Playboy spotlighting eligible college men, pictured here.

Massing says in his suit he never expected his photos to be sold to a magazine that would make him look "lustful and sexually promiscuous." (The Advocate)