Playboy

PlayboyLogo

File:Pb1253.jpg

Pb1253

Playboy Staff in 1970

Playboy lighter

Bill Clinton and Donald Trump at the U.S. Open in 2000, Flushing Meadows–Corona Park

Gloria Steinem 1977 ©Lynn Gilbert

Playboy is an American men's lifestyle and entertainment magazine, founded in Chicago in 1953 by Hugh Hefner and his associates. The magazine has grown into Playboy Enterprises, a global media and lifestyle company.

History[edit | edit source]

Playboy was first published in December 1953, featuring Marilyn Monroe in a nude calendar shoot; it sold over 50,000 copies. The magazine played a significant role in the sexual revolution and is known for its centerfolds of nude models, known as Playboy Playmates.

Content[edit | edit source]

Playboy features a mix of journalism, fiction, and humor, alongside its iconic photography. The magazine has published works by notable writers such as Ian Fleming, Margaret Atwood, and Haruki Murakami. It also includes interviews with prominent figures in various fields, including politics, entertainment, and sports.

Playboy Playmates[edit | edit source]

The Playboy Playmate is a monthly feature in the magazine, showcasing a nude or semi-nude model. Each Playmate is featured in a centerfold spread and receives a monetary reward and other prizes. The Playmate of the Year is selected from the 12 Playmates of the Month.

Interviews[edit | edit source]

Playboy is renowned for its in-depth interviews with influential figures. Notable interviews include those with Martin Luther King Jr., John Lennon, and Malcolm X.

Playboy Enterprises[edit | edit source]

Playboy Enterprises, Inc. is the company that manages the Playboy brand. It has diversified into various media and entertainment ventures, including television, film, and digital media. The company also licenses the Playboy brand for a range of consumer products.

Cultural Impact[edit | edit source]

Playboy has had a significant impact on American culture and the sexual revolution. It has been both praised and criticized for its portrayal of sexuality and nudity. The magazine has also been a platform for progressive social and political views.