Hefner, Hugh (1926-2017), an American magazine publisher, created Playboy, one of the most popular and controversial magazines of the 1900’s. The monthly magazine is known for its nude photographs of attractive young women, including a centerfold of the “Playmate of the Month.” In addition, the publication includes articles, columns, and cartoons about sex. The magazine also publishes fiction by major modern authors as well as entertainment reviews, articles on clothing and automobiles, and lengthy interviews with notable people. An online version of the magazine, Playboy Digital, was launched in 2005.
Hefner published the first issue of Playboy in December 1953 with nude photographs of motion-picture actress Marilyn Monroe. The issue carried no date because Hefner was not sure there would be enough demand to produce a second one. The magazine became an immediate success and led Hefner to expand his activities. He created other magazines, but none proved successful. He served as the host of the television shows “Playboy Penthouse” and “Playboy After Dark.” Hefner also edited collections of stories, humor, and cartoons that first appeared in his magazine.
Hefner opened a number of private Playboy nightclubs throughout the world. The first club opened in Chicago, Illinois, in 1960. The last one closed in 1988. In the December 1962 issue, Hefner began a series of articles that spelled out his personal philosophy. These articles were collected and published as The Playboy Philosophy (1963, expanded 1965).
Hugh Marston Hefner was born on April 9, 1926, in Chicago, Illinois. He graduated from the University of Illinois in 1949 with a degree in psychology. In 1988, Hefner stepped down as chief executive officer of Playboy, turning the position over to his daughter, Christie. In 2017, Hefner’s son, Cooper, became chief creative officer. Hugh Hefner died on Sept. 27, 2017.
