When Hugh Hefner passed away on September 27, 2017, at the age of 91, he left behind a legacy that resonates with millions. The man who founded Playboy once described his life as "a grown-up version of a boy’s dream." And Stephen Tetenbaum, his personal valet during the '70s, couldn’t agree more. Tetenbaum shared some fascinating insights into Hefner's daily life in an exclusive interview with Closer Weekly.
Behind the Scenes with Hugh Hefner
Tetenbaum revealed how meticulous Hefner was about his surroundings. "I had to make sure the refrigerator by his bed was always stocked with his favorite snacks—Twizzlers and M&Ms, which he practically lived on," Tetenbaum said. It wasn't just about food, though. "I also had to remove all the pins from his iconic satin pajamas when they came back from the dry cleaners. The last thing he needed was to prick himself with one of those sharp things!" Tetenbaum joked, adding a touch of humor to the memory.
Hugh's Legacy Through His Son's Eyes
Hefner’s son, Cooper, now 26, has reflected deeply on the impact his father made on the world. After Hefner's passing, Cooper shared some heartfelt words about his father’s life and contributions. "My father lived an extraordinary and impactful life as a media and cultural pioneer," Cooper said. He went on to describe his dad as "a leading voice behind some of the most significant social and cultural movements of our time, advocating for free speech, civil rights, and sexual freedom."
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Cooper added, "He defined a lifestyle and ethos that lie at the heart of the Playboy brand, one of the most recognizable and enduring brands in history. He will be greatly missed by so many, including his wife Crystal, my sister Christie, and my brothers David and Marston, as well as all of us at Playboy Enterprises."
A Family Remembers
Christie Hefner, Hugh’s daughter, also shared her thoughts. "He was a very loyal person to his friends and his values," she recalled fondly. It’s clear that Hugh Hefner’s influence extended far beyond the pages of Playboy; it touched the lives of those closest to him as well.
Hugh and Cooper: A Bond That Transcended Generations
Hugh’s first issue of Playboy featured Marilyn Monroe on the cover, so it was only fitting that he was buried next to her. Tetenbaum humorously remarked, "So many people go to see Marilyn, he wanted the overflow!" It's a poignant reminder of how deeply intertwined Hefner’s life and legacy were with the cultural icons of his time.
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