Playboy

Hugh Hefner started the magazine in Chicago in 1953 with $1,000 borrowed from his mother. The first issue hit newsstands without a cover date because he wasn't sure anyone would buy a second one. That debut included nude photos of Marilyn Monroe and quickly sold out. The publication mixed serious journalism with adult photography to create a unique cultural product that challenged social norms about sex and free speech.

What began as a print magazine grew into a massive licensing empire spanning fashion, nightlife, and digital media. The iconic bunny logo appeared on everything from tuxedos to costumes, becoming one of the most recognized trademarks globally. The brand launched its first nightclub in Chicago in 1960, expanding into a global hospitality network where celebrities and executives mingled. Barbara Walters famously worked a shift at a club there in 1962, an event that resurfaced in 2026 coverage.

The company navigated the decline of print by pivoting to digital platforms while occasionally returning to its roots. In 2016 it removed most nudity from the magazine, then restored full nudity for the March–April 2017 issue. Today PLBY Group operates the brand through subscriptions like Playboy Plus, a creator platform called PlayboyClub, and extensive licensing deals for apparel and accessories. [edit]