Examining Playboy Founder Hugh Hefner’s Legacy
Playboy Magazine founder Hugh Hefner died from natural causes at his infamous Playboy Mansion Wednesday at the age of 91.
He first published playboy in 1953, turning provocative photos of women into an empire.
But Hefner’s legacy has a dark side.
Former playmate and girlfriend Holly Madison described the playboy mansion as a place where Hefner encouraged women to compete for his affection.
While some feel Hefner exploited women, others say he empowered them.
Some who knew the man personally and others who knew his work reflected on Hefner’s legacy.
Kim Kardashian West, who posed for Playboy in 2007 tweeted: RIP to the legendary Hugh Hefner! Iβm so honored to have been a part of the Playboy team! You will be greatly missed!
Meanwhile, author Jessica Valenti shared a different view on twitter: Hugh Hefner is rightly remembered for rebelling against right wing moralism before most people, but please don’t forget he treated women like garbage to do it.
