Ep 2. Birth of the Centerfold: The Girl Next Door

In episode 2 of American Playboy: The Hugh Hefner Story season 1, titled "Birth of the Centerfold: The Girl Next Door," viewers are taken on a journey through the early days of Playboy Magazine. Hugh Hefner is on a mission to create a publication that celebrates the male fantasy of beautiful women, but he also wants to challenge the societal norms and cultural constraints of the time.

The episode starts with Hefner's decision to feature a photograph of Marilyn Monroe in the first issue of Playboy. Monroe's image graces the cover, and her photoshoot becomes one of the most iconic ever featured in the magazine. Hefner's gamble pays off, and Playboy quickly gains a reputation for showcasing the most beautiful and desirable women.

Hefner realizes that his readers are not just interested in seeing photos of women. They want to know who these women are, what their hobbies and interests are, and what they look like outside of the glossy pages of the magazine. To satisfy this demand, Hefner introduces the concept of the "girl next door." These women are accessible, down-to-earth, and relatable to the average man.

One of the women who embodies this girl-next-door appeal is Janet Pilgrim. Janet is a receptionist at the Playboy offices, and Hefner is immediately drawn to her. She becomes the first "girl next door" to appear in Playboy in a pictorial spread that showcases her interests and personality. The feature is a huge success, and Janet becomes one of the most popular models of her time.

Hefner's desire to challenge societal norms extends beyond just featuring beautiful women. He's a firm believer in the First Amendment, and he wants to use Playboy as a platform to push the boundaries of free speech. In another segment of the episode, Hefner is seen attending a conference about censorship and the freedom of expression. He speaks out against the censorship of sexuality and argues that it's time for society to be more open and accepting of human sexuality.

Overall, episode 2 of American Playboy: The Hugh Hefner Story season 1, "Birth of the Centerfold: The Girl Next Door," is a fascinating glimpse into the early days of Playboy Magazine. It showcases Hugh Hefner's vision for the publication, his desire to challenge societal norms, and his love for beautiful women. The episode is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of Playboy and the cultural significance of the magazine.