Hefner, Hugh M.

Hefner, Hugh M., 1926–, American publisher and businessman, b. Chicago. Raised according to strict Methodist principles, Hefner reacted by launching (1953) Playboy, a magazine for men that features photographs of nude women, advice on hedonistic living, and stories and articles by well-known writers. The magazine was successful internationally in the 1960s and 70s, and it spawned related businesses, such as nightclubs, hotels, and casinos. By 1986, most of these divisions had failed. Hefner's daughter Christie has been chief executive of Playboy Enterprises since 1988.