Playgirl: История женского журнала и мужской наготы

American women's magazine
the adult magazine

Playgirl is an American magazine that has historically featured pictorials of nude and semi nude men alongside general interest, lifestyle, and celebrity journalism, as well as original fiction. For most of its history, the magazine printed monthly and was marketed mainly to women, though it quickly developed a significant gay male readership. In 2009, Playgirl transitioned from a monthly to quarterly print publication, before ceasing regular print operations in 2016. In 2020, the magazine relaunched in November with nearly 10,000 copies in the U. S. and London before selling out and going back to press for a second printing and resumed monthly releases as an online only publication in 2020.

The magazine was founded in 1973 by Los Angeles based nightclub owner Douglas Lambert, who'd initially explored creating a men's lifestyle magazine featuring nude women to compete with Hugh Hefner's Playboy. At the suggestion of his wife, and inspired by the success of Helen Gurley Brown's use of male nudes in Cosmopolitan magazine (including a shoot featuring film star Burt Reynolds), Lambert refashioned his idea as a feminist response to movement as a response to Playboy and Penthouse instead. featuring television and film star Lyle Waggoner as centerfold and an interview and nude photoshoot with actor Ryan McDonald. Editorial in the issue included a travel pictorial on Hong Kong, long form interview with actress Cloris Leachman, original fiction by Jillian Charles, and a guide to selecting artwork for the home. Editorially, the magazine covered hot button sociopolitical issues like abortion and equal rights for the majority of its print run. In the magazine's first decade, it typically did so via long form journalism, commentary, and feature interviews from well regarded staff and freelance writers. Results were mixed and in 1986, compounded by bad investments by the owners (including the launch of an unsuccessful spin off publication, Playgirl Advisor, with a more direct focus on sex, sexuality, and couples), Playgirl filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and was subsequently acquired by Drake Publishers, Inc.

Until the 1986 change of ownership, Playgirl's interviews, journalism, and original fiction were central to the magazine's identity and featured and promoted as such. Post restructuring, the magazine began featuring simplified beefcake style covers (usually featuring a model from the issue, often in underwear or speedo style swimwear), and implemented changes to cut costs and expand readership in an increasingly conservative and less feminist friendly cultural environment of the late Reagan era. This resulted in substantial reductions in the in depth, substantive journalism, political and social feminist commentary the magazine was known for, a decrease in non pictorial pages, and an increase in advertising space. By the 2000s, Crescent had fully repositioned the title as an adult brand, relaunching Playgirl's website as a pay site primarily featuring co branded hardcore straight pornography, and increasing explicit content in the print magazine. In November 2001, Crescent agreed to pay $30 million in refunds and subsequently changed its name to Blue Horizon Media, Inc. In August 2008, the magazine announced that it would cease publication of its print edition as of the January 2009 issue. In 2011, Blue Horizon sold the print rights for Playgirl and other titles to Magna Publishing Group, Inc. of Paramus, New Jersey, and the magazine continued to publish as a print title, approximately quarterly, until 2016, when with print subscriptions dwindling to approximately 3,000 the title ceased regular print operations. In 2020, new owner Jack Lindley Kuhns, a gay man, revived the title, relaunching the "New Playgirl Magazine" with a special print edition, featuring a pregnant and nude actress Chloe Sevigny on the cover (a nod to both Playgirl's feminist roots and the magazine's early issues, which often featured women on the cover), edited by Skye Parrott. The issue, described by Kuhns as "part political magazine and part art magazine" featured images of nude bodies of all ethnicities and genders, as well as writing about racial injustice, trans empowerment, and body positivity and sold out immediately. Since the 2020 relaunch, the magazine has moved to a regular publishing cycle as an online only title split across two domains: Playgirl. com, a free site featuring a mix of news, features, and photo essays reside, and PlaygirlPlus. com, a subscription site where access to the publication's archives and the magazine's traditional "Man of the Month" nude photospread, modernized with additional video and multimedia content, are hosted. Nicole Caldwell, a former editor in chief during the magazine's print run, oversees the online iteration in the same capacity. Under the direction Caldwell, Boardman, and production director Daniel McKernan, the brand has refocused on the traditional male physique and art nude composition the magazine is historically known for, incorporating additional video and multi media content, moving away from the more explicit depictions of the print magazine's final years and reembracing the magazine's roots. Both domains highlight the decades of substantive journalism, commentary, fiction, and pictorials from the magazine's archives, presenting them in newly digitized formats. NFL player Bob Chandler was pleased with the photos from his shoot, and even displayed a framed shot in his home. Actor Marcus Patrick claimed Playgirl then editors' use of photos more explicit than agreed cost him his role on the daytime soap opera Days of Our Lives, while Urban has jokingly called posing pre superstardom a "career regret," finding the photos, which featured him posing nude and in underwear with his guitar, embarrassing. Conversely, musician Peter Steele expressed strong regret for his unusually explicit shoot, repulsed by the attention he garnered from gay fans. Others, like straight soap opera actor John Gibson, found the attention from male and female fans equally flattering, with Gibson specifically crediting the positive attention from his Playgirl appearance for his career shift and subsequent success as an actor, model, and dancer. While celebrities and public figures from many walks of life including the military, circus arts, and politics have posed nude for Playgirl, the majority of the magazine's high profile nude models have come from the worlds of film and television acting, professional and world class athletics (mostly professional baseball, football, and Olympic athletes), and music, including well known pop, rock, metal, and rap artists. Celebrities and notable public figures who posed for Playgirl pictorials YearIssueTypeStyleNameField/Notability 1973 June centerfoldobscured nude Lyle Waggoner actor (The Carol Burnett Show, Wonder Woman) celebrity nudeobscured nude Ryan McDonald actor (The Odd Couple, Days of Our Lives) Julycenterfoldfrontal nude George Maharis actor (Route 66, The Most Deadly Game) and singer Augustcenterfoldobscured nude Gary Conway actor (Burke's Law, Land of the Giants) and screenwriterfeaturerear, obscured full nudeAlan Landersactor, model ("The Winston Man") Septembercenterfoldobscured nude Fabian Forte singer and actor (The Longest Day)Octobercenterfoldobscured nudeFred Williamsonprofessional football player and actor (Black Caesar, Julia)Novembercenterfoldfrontal nudeDon Stroudactor (The Amityville Horror, Mrs. Colombo) and stuntmanDecembercenterfoldfrontal nudeJean Paul VignonFrench singer and television host 1974 Januarycelebrity nuderear, obscured full nude John Ericson actor (Honey West, Stalag 17 Original Broadway Cast)Aprilcenterfold frontal nudePeter Lupusactor (Mission: Impossible) and champion bodybuilderJunefeaturefrontal nudeSan Diego State Rugby Teamathletic team (group)Julyfeaturefrontal nudeLou Zivkovichprofessional football playerAugustcenterfoldfrontal nudeGreg RogersOlympic medalist swimmerSeptembercenterfoldfrontal nudeJim Brownfootball player and actor (The Dirty Dozen, 100 Rifles)Novembercenterfoldfrontal nudePhil AvalonAustralian actor and film producer1975Aprilcenterfoldfrontal nudeJohn Gibsonactor (The Young and the Restless, The Warriors) and dancerJunecenterfoldfrontal nudeSam J. Jonesactor (Flash Gordon, The Highwayman) and football playerSeptemberfrontal nudeJaime MorenoMexican telenovela actor and singerOctoberfeaturefrontal nudeSteve Bondactor (General Hospital, Picasso Trigger)1976Januarycenterfoldfrontal nudeJimmy Cavarettacelebrity trapeze artist, television personality1977Februarycenterfoldfrontal nudeDick Baneyprofessional baseball player1980Decembercenterfold rear, obscured full nudeDan Pastorini #1professional football player1981Julyfeatureobscured nudeDan Fordprofessional baseball playerDecemberfeaturerear, obscured full nudeBob Chandlerprofessional football player1982Januaryreturn featurerear, obscured full nudeDan Pastorini #2professional football playerSeptemberfeaturefrontal nudeChristopher Atkinsactor (The Blue Lagoon, Dallas)Octoberfeaturerear, obscured full nudeSteve Yeagerprofessional baseball playerDecemberfeaturerear, obscured full nudeJohn Matuszakprofessional football player and actor1983Januaryfeaturerear, obscured full nudeTommy Chongactor (Cheech & Chong, That 70s Show) and comedianfrontal nudeDon Williamsprofessional football playerJunefeaturerear, obscured nudeWarren Cuccurullo #1musician (Duran Duran, Missing Persons)Julyfeaturerear, obscured full nudeSteve Stoneprofessional baseball player and broadcaster1984Januaryfeatureobscured nudeGlenn Morrisseyactor (Emerald Point N. A. S., Force: Five)1985Octoberfeaturerear, obscured full nudeHéctor Camacho #1boxing champion1986Augustcover storyrear nudeDavid Lee Rothsinger (Van Halen)featurefrontal nudeSteven Pearcysinger and musician (Ratt)1987Augustfeaturerear, obscured full nudeGreg LouganisOlympic medalist diverAprilfeaturerear nudityJeff O'Hacoactor and stuntman1989Aprilcover storyunderwearFrank Dicopoulousactor1991Junefeaturerear, obscured full nudeBig Daddy Kanerapper1994Novembergroup featurefrontal nudeVincent PrinciottaNYC firefighter (fallen 9/11 first responder)1995Octoberfeaturefrontal nudeHermann EastmondPan American Games medalist, U. S. Men's National team athleteAugustcover storyfrontal nudePeter Steelemusician (Type O Negative)1996Augustfeaturefrontal nudeFather MCrapperOctobercover storyobscured nudeShawn Michaelsprofessional wrestler1998Mayfeaturefrontal nudeRobert John Burkcelebrity street performer ("The Naked Cowboy") and modelOnlinePG Extrasfrontal nude (explicit)Warren Cuccurullo #2musician (Duran Duran, Missing Persons)2000Octobercover storyobscured nudeChristian Boevingactor (Kingdom of Heaven, When Eagles Strike) and extreme athlete (Battle Dome)Januarycover storyrear, obscured full nudeVictor Websteractor (Days of Our Lives, The Matchmaker Mysteries)Maycover storyrear, obscured full nudeWinsor Harmonactor (All My Children, The Bold and the Beautiful)2002Septembercover storyunderwearJames Hydeactor (Passions, Monarca)2001Aprilcover storyobscured nudeKeith Urbansinger2003Mayfeaturerear, obscured full nudeDarryl Worleysinger2006Junefeaturefrontal nudeDanny Lopesactor (Desecration, Satan's Playground)2007Aprilfeaturerear, obscured full nudeVito LoGrassoprofessional wrestlerSeptembercover storyfrontal nudeMarcus Patrickactor (Days of Our Lives, All My Children)2010Winter #1featurerear, obscured full nudeLevi Johnstonpolitical celebritySummercover storyfrontal nudeRonnie Kroellactor and reality tv star (Make Me a Super Model)return featurefrontal nudeHéctor Camacho #2boxing championWinter #2cover storyfrontal nudePhil Varonemusician (Skid Row)2011Springcover storyfrontal nudeTim BoycesupermodelFallcover storyfrontal nudeJoey Kovarreality tv star (The Real World) and bodybuilder2013Springcover storyrear, obscured full nudeFilippo Giovereality tv star (Jerseylicious)Summercover storyfrontal nudeNick Hawkmodel and reality tv star (Gigolos)Onlinefeaturerear, obscured full nudeMike Shouhedreality tv star (Shahs of Sunset)

The magazine was founded in 1973 by Los Angeles based nightclub owner Douglas Lambert, who'd initially explored creating a men's lifestyle magazine featuring nude women to compete with Hugh Hefner's Playboy. At the suggestion of his wife, and inspired by the success of Helen Gurley Brown's use of male nudes in Cosmopolitan magazine (including a shoot featuring film star Burt Reynolds), Lambert refashioned his idea as a feminist response to movement as a response to Playboy and Penthouse instead. featuring television and film star Lyle Waggoner as centerfold and an interview and nude photoshoot with actor Ryan McDonald. Editorial in the issue included a travel pictorial on Hong Kong, long form interview with actress Cloris Leachman, original fiction by Jillian Charles, and a guide to selecting artwork for the home. Editorially, the magazine covered hot button sociopolitical issues like abortion and equal rights for the majority of its print run. In the magazine's first decade, it typically did so via long form journalism, commentary, and feature interviews from well regarded staff and freelance writers. Results were mixed and in 1986, compounded by bad investments by the owners (including the launch of an unsuccessful spin off publication, Playgirl Advisor, with a more direct focus on sex, sexuality, and couples), Playgirl filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and was subsequently acquired by Drake Publishers, Inc.

Until the 1986 change of ownership, Playgirl's interviews, journalism, and original fiction were central to the magazine's identity and featured and promoted as such. Post restructuring, the magazine began featuring simplified beefcake style covers (usually featuring a model from the issue, often in underwear or speedo style swimwear), and implemented changes to cut costs and expand readership in an increasingly conservative and less feminist friendly cultural environment of the late Reagan era. This resulted in substantial reductions in the in depth, substantive journalism, political and social feminist commentary the magazine was known for, a decrease in non pictorial pages, and an increase in advertising space. By the 2000s, Crescent had fully repositioned the title as an adult brand, relaunching Playgirl's website as a pay site primarily featuring co branded hardcore straight pornography, and increasing explicit content in the print magazine. In November 2001, Crescent agreed to pay $30 million in refunds and subsequently changed its name to Blue Horizon Media, Inc. In August 2008, the magazine announced that it would cease publication of its print edition as of the January 2009 issue. In 2011, Blue Horizon sold the print rights for Playgirl and other titles to Magna Publishing Group, Inc. of Paramus, New Jersey, and the magazine continued to publish as a print title, approximately quarterly, until 2016, when with print subscriptions dwindling to approximately 3,000 the title ceased regular print operations. In 2020, new owner Jack Lindley Kuhns, a gay man, revived the title, relaunching the "New Playgirl Magazine" with a special print edition, featuring a pregnant and nude actress Chloe Sevigny on the cover (a nod to both Playgirl's feminist roots and the magazine's early issues, which often featured women on the cover), edited by Skye Parrott. The issue, described by Kuhns as "part political magazine and part art magazine" featured images of nude bodies of all ethnicities and genders, as well as writing about racial injustice, trans empowerment, and body positivity and sold out immediately. Since the 2020 relaunch, the magazine has moved to a regular publishing cycle as an online only title split across two domains: Playgirl. com, a free site featuring a mix of news, features, and photo essays reside, and PlaygirlPlus. com, a subscription site where access to the publication's archives and the magazine's traditional "Man of the Month" nude photospread, modernized with additional video and multimedia content, are hosted. Nicole Caldwell, a former editor in chief during the magazine's print run, oversees the online iteration in the same capacity. Under the direction Caldwell, Boardman, and production director Daniel McKernan, the brand has refocused on the traditional male physique and art nude composition the magazine is historically known for, incorporating additional video and multi media content, moving away from the more explicit depictions of the print magazine's final years and reembracing the magazine's roots. Both domains highlight the decades of substantive journalism, commentary, fiction, and pictorials from the magazine's archives, presenting them in newly digitized formats. NFL player Bob Chandler was pleased with the photos from his shoot, and even displayed a framed shot in his home. Actor Marcus Patrick claimed Playgirl then editors' use of photos more explicit than agreed cost him his role on the daytime soap opera Days of Our Lives, while Urban has jokingly called posing pre superstardom a "career regret," finding the photos, which featured him posing nude and in underwear with his guitar, embarrassing. Conversely, musician Peter Steele expressed strong regret for his unusually explicit shoot, repulsed by the attention he garnered from gay fans. Others, like straight soap opera actor John Gibson, found the attention from male and female fans equally flattering, with Gibson specifically crediting the positive attention from his Playgirl appearance for his career shift and subsequent success as an actor, model, and dancer. While celebrities and public figures from many walks of life including the military, circus arts, and politics have posed nude for Playgirl, the majority of the magazine's high profile nude models have come from the worlds of film and television acting, professional and world class athletics (mostly professional baseball, football, and Olympic athletes), and music, including well known pop, rock, metal, and rap artists. Celebrities and notable public figures who posed for Playgirl pictorials YearIssueTypeStyleNameField/Notability 1973 June centerfoldobscured nude Lyle Waggoner actor (The Carol Burnett Show, Wonder Woman) celebrity nudeobscured nude Ryan McDonald actor (The Odd Couple, Days of Our Lives) Julycenterfoldfrontal nude George Maharis actor (Route 66, The Most Deadly Game) and singer Augustcenterfoldobscured nude Gary Conway actor (Burke's Law, Land of the Giants) and screenwriterfeaturerear, obscured full nudeAlan Landersactor, model ("The Winston Man") Septembercenterfoldobscured nude Fabian Forte singer and actor (The Longest Day)Octobercenterfoldobscured nudeFred Williamsonprofessional football player and actor (Black Caesar, Julia)Novembercenterfoldfrontal nudeDon Stroudactor (The Amityville Horror, Mrs. Colombo) and stuntmanDecembercenterfoldfrontal nudeJean Paul VignonFrench singer and television host 1974 Januarycelebrity nuderear, obscured full nude John Ericson actor (Honey West, Stalag 17 Original Broadway Cast)Aprilcenterfold frontal nudePeter Lupusactor (Mission: Impossible) and champion bodybuilderJunefeaturefrontal nudeSan Diego State Rugby Teamathletic team (group)Julyfeaturefrontal nudeLou Zivkovichprofessional football playerAugustcenterfoldfrontal nudeGreg RogersOlympic medalist swimmerSeptembercenterfoldfrontal nudeJim Brownfootball player and actor (The Dirty Dozen, 100 Rifles)Novembercenterfoldfrontal nudePhil AvalonAustralian actor and film producer1975Aprilcenterfoldfrontal nudeJohn Gibsonactor (The Young and the Restless, The Warriors) and dancerJunecenterfoldfrontal nudeSam J. Jonesactor (Flash Gordon, The Highwayman) and football playerSeptemberfrontal nudeJaime MorenoMexican telenovela actor and singerOctoberfeaturefrontal nudeSteve Bondactor (General Hospital, Picasso Trigger)1976Januarycenterfoldfrontal nudeJimmy Cavarettacelebrity trapeze artist, television personality1977Februarycenterfoldfrontal nudeDick Baneyprofessional baseball player1980Decembercenterfold rear, obscured full nudeDan Pastorini #1professional football player1981Julyfeatureobscured nudeDan Fordprofessional baseball playerDecemberfeaturerear, obscured full nudeBob Chandlerprofessional football player1982Januaryreturn featurerear, obscured full nudeDan Pastorini #2professional football playerSeptemberfeaturefrontal nudeChristopher Atkinsactor (The Blue Lagoon, Dallas)Octoberfeaturerear, obscured full nudeSteve Yeagerprofessional baseball playerDecemberfeaturerear, obscured full nudeJohn Matuszakprofessional football player and actor1983Januaryfeaturerear, obscured full nudeTommy Chongactor (Cheech & Chong, That 70s Show) and comedianfrontal nudeDon Williamsprofessional football playerJunefeaturerear, obscured nudeWarren Cuccurullo #1musician (Duran Duran, Missing Persons)Julyfeaturerear, obscured full nudeSteve Stoneprofessional baseball player and broadcaster1984Januaryfeatureobscured nudeGlenn Morrisseyactor (Emerald Point N. A. S., Force: Five)1985Octoberfeaturerear, obscured full nudeHéctor Camacho #1boxing champion1986Augustcover storyrear nudeDavid Lee Rothsinger (Van Halen)featurefrontal nudeSteven Pearcysinger and musician (Ratt)1987Augustfeaturerear, obscured full nudeGreg LouganisOlympic medalist diverAprilfeaturerear nudityJeff O'Hacoactor and stuntman1989Aprilcover storyunderwearFrank Dicopoulousactor1991Junefeaturerear, obscured full nudeBig Daddy Kanerapper1994Novembergroup featurefrontal nudeVincent PrinciottaNYC firefighter (fallen 9/11 first responder)1995Octoberfeaturefrontal nudeHermann EastmondPan American Games medalist, U. S. Men's National team athleteAugustcover storyfrontal nudePeter Steelemusician (Type O Negative)1996Augustfeaturefrontal nudeFather MCrapperOctobercover storyobscured nudeShawn Michaelsprofessional wrestler1998Mayfeaturefrontal nudeRobert John Burkcelebrity street performer ("The Naked Cowboy") and modelOnlinePG Extrasfrontal nude (explicit)Warren Cuccurullo #2musician (Duran Duran, Missing Persons)2000Octobercover storyobscured nudeChristian Boevingactor (Kingdom of Heaven, When Eagles Strike) and extreme athlete (Battle Dome)Januarycover storyrear, obscured full nudeVictor Websteractor (Days of Our Lives, The Matchmaker Mysteries)Maycover storyrear, obscured full nudeWinsor Harmonactor (All My Children, The Bold and the Beautiful)2002Septembercover storyunderwearJames Hydeactor (Passions, Monarca)2001Aprilcover storyobscured nudeKeith Urbansinger2003Mayfeaturerear, obscured full nudeDarryl Worleysinger2006Junefeaturefrontal nudeDanny Lopesactor (Desecration, Satan's Playground)2007Aprilfeaturerear, obscured full nudeVito LoGrassoprofessional wrestlerSeptembercover storyfrontal nudeMarcus Patrickactor (Days of Our Lives, All My Children)2010Winter #1featurerear, obscured full nudeLevi Johnstonpolitical celebritySummercover storyfrontal nudeRonnie Kroellactor and reality tv star (Make Me a Super Model)return featurefrontal nudeHéctor Camacho #2boxing championWinter #2cover storyfrontal nudePhil Varonemusician (Skid Row)2011Springcover storyfrontal nudeTim BoycesupermodelFallcover storyfrontal nudeJoey Kovarreality tv star (The Real World) and bodybuilder2013Springcover storyrear, obscured full nudeFilippo Giovereality tv star (Jerseylicious)Summercover storyfrontal nudeNick Hawkmodel and reality tv star (Gigolos)Onlinefeaturerear, obscured full nudeMike Shouhedreality tv star (Shahs of Sunset)

The magazine was founded in 1973 by Los Angeles based nightclub owner Douglas Lambert, who'd initially explored creating a men's lifestyle magazine featuring nude women to compete with Hugh Hefner's Playboy. At the suggestion of his wife, and inspired by the success of Helen Gurley Brown's use of male nudes in Cosmopolitan magazine (including a shoot featuring film star Burt Reynolds), Lambert refashioned his idea as a feminist response to movement as a response to Playboy and Penthouse instead. featuring television and film star Lyle Waggoner as centerfold and an interview and nude photoshoot with actor Ryan McDonald. Editorial in the issue included a travel pictorial on Hong Kong, long form interview with actress Cloris Leachman, original fiction by Jillian Charles, and a guide to selecting artwork for the home. Editorially, the magazine covered hot button sociopolitical issues like abortion and equal rights for the majority of its print run. In the magazine's first decade, it typically did so via long form journalism, commentary, and feature interviews from well regarded staff and freelance writers. Results were mixed and in 1986, compounded by bad investments by the owners (including the launch of an unsuccessful spin off publication, Playgirl Advisor, with a more direct focus on sex, sexuality, and couples), Playgirl filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and was subsequently acquired by Drake Publishers, Inc.

Until the 1986 change of ownership, Playgirl's interviews, journalism, and original fiction were central to the magazine's identity and featured and promoted as such. Post restructuring, the magazine began featuring simplified beefcake style covers (usually featuring a model from the issue, often in underwear or speedo style swimwear), and implemented changes to cut costs and expand readership in an increasingly conservative and less feminist friendly cultural environment of the late Reagan era. This resulted in substantial reductions in the in depth, substantive journalism, political and social feminist commentary the magazine was known for, a decrease in non pictorial pages, and an increase in advertising space. By the 2000s, Crescent had fully repositioned the title as an adult brand, relaunching Playgirl's website as a pay site primarily featuring co branded hardcore straight pornography, and increasing explicit content in the print magazine. In November 2001, Crescent agreed to pay $30 million in refunds and subsequently changed its name to Blue Horizon Media, Inc. In August 2008, the magazine announced that it would cease publication of its print edition as of the January 2009 issue. In 2011, Blue Horizon sold the print rights for Playgirl and other titles to Magna Publishing Group, Inc. of Paramus, New Jersey, and the magazine continued to publish as a print title, approximately quarterly, until 2016, when with print subscriptions dwindling to approximately 3,000 the title ceased regular print operations. In 2020, new owner Jack Lindley Kuhns, a gay man, revived the title, relaunching the "New Playgirl Magazine" with a special print edition, featuring a pregnant and nude actress Chloe Sevigny on the cover (a nod to both Playgirl's feminist roots and the magazine's early issues, which often featured women on the cover), edited by Skye Parrott. The issue, described by Kuhns as "part political magazine and part art magazine" featured images of nude bodies of all ethnicities and genders, as well as writing about racial injustice, trans empowerment, and body positivity and sold out immediately. Since the 2020 relaunch, the magazine has moved to a regular publishing cycle as an online only title split across two domains: Playgirl. com, a free site featuring a mix of news, features, and photo essays reside, and PlaygirlPlus. com, a subscription site where access to the publication's archives and the magazine's traditional "Man of the Month" nude photospread, modernized with additional video and multimedia content, are hosted. Nicole Caldwell, a former editor in chief during the magazine's print run, oversees the online iteration in the same capacity. Under the direction Caldwell, Boardman, and production director Daniel McKernan, the brand has refocused on the traditional male physique and art nude composition the magazine is historically known for, incorporating additional video and multi media content, moving away from the more explicit depictions of the print magazine's final years and reembracing the magazine's roots. Both domains highlight the decades of substantive journalism, commentary, fiction, and pictorials from the magazine's archives, presenting them in newly digitized formats. NFL player Bob Chandler was pleased with the photos from his shoot, and even displayed a framed shot in his home. Actor Marcus Patrick claimed Playgirl then editors' use of photos more explicit than agreed cost him his role on the daytime soap opera Days of Our Lives, while Urban has jokingly called posing pre superstardom a "career regret," finding the photos, which featured him posing nude and in underwear with his guitar, embarrassing. Conversely, musician Peter Steele expressed strong regret for his unusually explicit shoot, repulsed by the attention he garnered from gay fans. Others, like straight soap opera actor John Gibson, found the attention from male and female fans equally flattering, with Gibson specifically crediting the positive attention from his Playgirl appearance for his career shift and subsequent success as an actor, model, and dancer. While celebrities and public figures from many walks of life including the military, circus arts, and politics have posed nude for Playgirl, the majority of the magazine's high profile nude models have come from the worlds of film and television acting, professional and world class athletics (mostly professional baseball, football, and Olympic athletes), and music, including well known pop, rock, metal, and rap artists. Celebrities and notable public figures who posed for Playgirl pictorials YearIssueTypeStyleNameField/Notability 1973 June centerfoldobscured nude Lyle Waggoner actor (The Carol Burnett Show, Wonder Woman) celebrity nudeobscured nude Ryan McDonald actor (The Odd Couple, Days of Our Lives) Julycenterfoldfrontal nude George Maharis actor (Route 66, The Most Deadly Game) and singer Augustcenterfoldobscured nude Gary Conway actor (Burke's Law, Land of the Giants) and screenwriterfeaturerear, obscured full nudeAlan Landersactor, model ("The Winston Man") Septembercenterfoldobscured nude Fabian Forte singer and actor (The Longest Day)Octobercenterfoldobscured nudeFred Williamsonprofessional football player and actor (Black Caesar, Julia)Novembercenterfoldfrontal nudeDon Stroudactor (The Amityville Horror, Mrs. Colombo) and stuntmanDecembercenterfoldfrontal nudeJean Paul VignonFrench singer and television host 1974 Januarycelebrity nuderear, obscured full nude John Ericson actor (Honey West, Stalag 17 Original Broadway Cast)Aprilcenterfold frontal nudePeter Lupusactor (Mission: Impossible) and champion bodybuilderJunefeaturefrontal nudeSan Diego State Rugby Teamathletic team (group)Julyfeaturefrontal nudeLou Zivkovichprofessional football playerAugustcenterfoldfrontal nudeGreg RogersOlympic medalist swimmerSeptembercenterfoldfrontal nudeJim Brownfootball player and actor (The Dirty Dozen, 100 Rifles)Novembercenterfoldfrontal nudePhil AvalonAustralian actor and film producer1975Aprilcenterfoldfrontal nudeJohn Gibsonactor (The Young and the Restless, The Warriors) and dancerJunecenterfoldfrontal nudeSam J. Jonesactor (Flash Gordon, The Highwayman) and football playerSeptemberfrontal nudeJaime MorenoMexican telenovela actor and singerOctoberfeaturefrontal nudeSteve Bondactor (General Hospital, Picasso Trigger)1976Januarycenterfoldfrontal nudeJimmy Cavarettacelebrity trapeze artist, television personality1977Februarycenterfoldfrontal nudeDick Baneyprofessional baseball player1980Decembercenterfold rear, obscured full nudeDan Pastorini #1professional football player1981Julyfeatureobscured nudeDan Fordprofessional baseball playerDecemberfeaturerear, obscured full nudeBob Chandlerprofessional football player1982Januaryreturn featurerear, obscured full nudeDan Pastorini #2professional football playerSeptemberfeaturefrontal nudeChristopher Atkinsactor (The Blue Lagoon, Dallas)Octoberfeaturerear, obscured full nudeSteve Yeagerprofessional baseball playerDecemberfeaturerear, obscured full nudeJohn Matuszakprofessional football player and actor1983Januaryfeaturerear, obscured full nudeTommy Chongactor (Cheech & Chong, That 70s Show) and comedianfrontal nudeDon Williamsprofessional football playerJunefeaturerear, obscured nudeWarren Cuccurullo #1musician (Duran Duran, Missing Persons)Julyfeaturerear, obscured full nudeSteve Stoneprofessional baseball player and broadcaster1984Januaryfeatureobscured nudeGlenn Morrisseyactor (Emerald Point N. A. S., Force: Five)1985Octoberfeaturerear, obscured full nudeHéctor Camacho #1boxing champion1986Augustcover storyrear nudeDavid Lee Rothsinger (Van Halen)featurefrontal nudeSteven Pearcysinger and musician (Ratt)1987Augustfeaturerear, obscured full nudeGreg LouganisOlympic medalist diverAprilfeaturerear nudityJeff O'Hacoactor and stuntman1989Aprilcover storyunderwearFrank Dicopoulousactor1991Junefeaturerear, obscured full nudeBig Daddy Kanerapper1994Novembergroup featurefrontal nudeVincent PrinciottaNYC firefighter (fallen 9/11 first responder)1995Octoberfeaturefrontal nudeHermann EastmondPan American Games medalist, U. S. Men's National team athleteAugustcover storyfrontal nudePeter Steelemusician (Type O Negative)1996Augustfeaturefrontal nudeFather MCrapperOctobercover storyobscured nudeShawn Michaelsprofessional wrestler1998Mayfeaturefrontal nudeRobert John Burkcelebrity street performer ("The Naked Cowboy") and modelOnlinePG Extrasfrontal nude (explicit)Warren Cuccurullo #2musician (Duran Duran, Missing Persons)2000Octobercover storyobscured nudeChristian Boevingactor (Kingdom of Heaven, When Eagles Strike) and extreme athlete (Battle Dome)Januarycover storyrear, obscured full nudeVictor Websteractor (Days of Our Lives, The Matchmaker Mysteries)Maycover storyrear, obscured full nudeWinsor Harmonactor (All My Children, The Bold and the Beautiful)2002Septembercover storyunderwearJames Hydeactor (Passions, Monarca)2001Aprilcover storyobscured nudeKeith Urbansinger2003Mayfeaturerear, obscured full nudeDarryl Worleysinger2006Junefeaturefrontal nudeDanny Lopesactor (Desecration, Satan's Playground)2007Aprilfeaturerear, obscured full nudeVito LoGrassoprofessional wrestlerSeptembercover storyfrontal nudeMarcus Patrickactor (Days of Our Lives, All My Children)2010Winter #1featurerear, obscured full nudeLevi Johnstonpolitical celebritySummercover storyfrontal nudeRonnie Kroellactor and reality tv star (Make Me a Super Model)return featurefrontal nudeHéctor Camacho #2boxing championWinter #2cover storyfrontal nudePhil Varonemusician (Skid Row)2011Springcover storyfrontal nudeTim BoycesupermodelFallcover storyfrontal nudeJoey Kovarreality tv star (The Real World) and bodybuilder2013Springcover storyrear, obscured full nudeFilippo Giovereality tv star (Jerseylicious)Summercover storyfrontal nudeNick Hawkmodel and reality tv star (Gigolos)Onlinefeaturerear, obscured full nudeMike Shouhedreality tv star (Shahs of Sunset)

Though the magazine was mainly marketed to heterosexual women, it developed a substantial gay male following. In 2003, then editor in chief Michele Zipp acknowledged the magazine's gay readership, noting "it's 'Entertainment for Women' because there's no other magazine out there that caters to women in the way we do [but] we love our gay readers as well, and the gay readership [of the magazine] is about 30%." Dirk Shafer, one of the gay men featured later produced a comic mockumentary titled Man of the Year in which he discussed balancing his own homosexuality with his role as Playgirl's "Man of the Year," a seemingly heterosexual sex symbol. While the magazine always presented its models as heterosexual, openly gay models have appeared in the magazine, including Scott Merritt, Playgirl's 30th anniversary centerfold, who came out publicly in an interview with The Advocate. Some models featured over the magazine's print run also posed for gay focused publications or worked in the gay adult entertainment industry. Playgirl UK's brief 2011 relaunch was accompanied by an announcement that it would feature no below the waist nudity, and would focus on attractive male celebrities rather than models and pornography actors. It was a failure, and ceased circulation soon after it began.