How Playboy cut ties with Hugh Hefner to create a post-MeToo brand

Playboy, the iconic men's magazine, has undergone a significant transformation in the wake of the #MeToo movement. Founded 70 years ago by Hugh Hefner, Playboy's legacy has been marked by controversies surrounding the exploitation of women. In a strategic move, the brand has severed ties with Hefner, who passed away in 2017, to create a post-#MeToo image. The company's new leadership has focused on rebranding Playboy as a more inclusive and empowering platform, moving away from the objectification of women that characterized its earlier years. The magazine has embraced a more diverse range of content, featuring articles and interviews that address social and political issues. Additionally, Playboy has made a conscious effort to showcase a wider representation of body types and gender identities, challenging the narrow standards of beauty that were once its hallmark. This shift in direction reflects the changing social landscape and the growing demand for more responsible and ethical media representation. Playboy's transformation is a testament to the power of the #MeToo movement in driving meaningful change within the entertainment industry.