Playboy Founder's Widow Alleges Underage Photos in Foundation's Collection

Crystal Hefner files complaints with state attorneys general over potential distribution of images

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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Crystal Hefner, the widow of Playboy founder Hugh Hefner, has alleged that the Hugh M. Hefner Foundation possesses thousands of pages of the Playboy founder's journals and scrapbooks that may include nude pictures of underage girls taken without consent. Hefner, accompanied by attorney Gloria Allred, said she filed regulatory complaints with the California and Illinois Attorney General's offices in an attempt to prevent any potential distribution of the images.

Why it matters

This case raises concerns about the potential exploitation and distribution of intimate images, including those involving minors, that were allegedly taken without consent. It also highlights the complex legacy of Hugh Hefner and the Playboy brand, which has faced criticism over its treatment of women.

The details

According to Hefner and Allred, the Hugh M. Hefner Foundation is in possession of '3,000 personal scrapbooks containing thousands of nude images of women and Hefner's diary, which contains highly personal information regarding his sexual exploits.' Hefner expressed concern that some of the encounters involved minors, stating that 'the materials span decades, including in the 1960s, and may include images of girls who were underage at the time.' Hefner said she was fired as the foundation's CEO after raising concerns about the contents of its collection.

  • Crystal Hefner filed regulatory complaints with the California and Illinois Attorney General's offices on February 17, 2026.

The players

Crystal Hefner

The widow of Playboy founder Hugh Hefner, who has alleged that the Hugh M. Hefner Foundation possesses thousands of pages of the Playboy founder's journals and scrapbooks that may include nude pictures of underage girls taken without consent.

Gloria Allred

An attorney representing Crystal Hefner in her allegations against the Hugh M. Hefner Foundation.

Hugh M. Hefner Foundation

A Santa Monica-based organization that claims to advance progressive causes, including 'rational sex and drug policies,' and is allegedly in possession of the materials described by Crystal Hefner and Gloria Allred.

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What they’re saying

“The materials span decades, including in the 1960s, and may include images of girls who were underage at the time.”

— Crystal Hefner (Los Angeles Times)

“I am deeply worried about these images getting out ... a single security failure could devastate thousands of lives. This is a civil rights issue. Women's bodies are not property. Are not history. Are not collectibles.”

— Crystal Hefner (Los Angeles Times)

What’s next

The California and Illinois Attorney General's offices will review the regulatory complaints filed by Crystal Hefner and determine if any further action is warranted.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing concerns around the potential exploitation and distribution of intimate images, particularly those involving minors, and the complex legacy of the Playboy brand. It raises questions about the responsibility of organizations in possession of such materials and the need for stronger safeguards to protect individuals' privacy and consent.