Plot Synopsis

Told from Hugh Hefner's unique perspective and using never-before-seen archival footage and images from his Guinness World Record-holding collection of over 2,900 scrapbooks, AMERICAN PLAYBOY: THE HUGH HEFNER STORY is a one-hour docuseries that spans over six decades while telling the dual narrative of Hefner's captivating personal life, intertwined with the evolution of the country he sought to change. The 10-episode series opens with the surprising story of how Marilyn Monroe became Playboy's first pin-up, continuing with the tale of how Hefner convinced his new subscription manager to pose as the magazine's first centerfold, as "the girl next door" becomes Playboy's formula for success. Then, during the mid-1950s, Hugh Hefner and Playboy gain national success, giving Hefner an opportunity to speak out about social issues while enjoying the perks of being Mr. Playboy. Amazon released the 10-episode series on Friday, April 7, 2017 at 3:01am ET/12:01am PT.