Penthouse Forum Celebrates 45th Anniversary

NEW YOK — Penthouse Magazine’s iconic letters and advice publication, Penthouse Forum is celebrating its 45th anniversary.

Originally published as an insert in the March 1970 issue of Penthouse and subtitled “The International Journal of Human Relations,” Penthouse Forum was destined to become a magazine like none other.

The digest-sized publication was informative, exploring topics of growing importance to the sexually curious including bedroom techniques, questions about marriage, divorce or adultery, along with tips on increasing sex drive.

But what set it apart was its notorious letters section, the first example of “fan fiction”— decades before “Fifty Shades of Grey.” Forum letters claimed their own place on the forefront of mainstream, mass-market erotica by giving readers a behind-the-scenes look at what their neighbors do after dark —  and sometimes in the afternoon —as well as a place to share their own experiences.

Most intriguing of all, according to the editors, was that it was meant to be read by men and women alike.

The 45th Anniversary April/May issue — on newsstands now — blends a fond, playful look at its roots with more contemporary content. The lead feature revisits a selection of ’70s-era letters depicting the May/December romance of a mid-20’s man and a mid-60’s woman; the possibilities of cannabis as an aphrodisiac; and a couple’s first attempt at bondage — carried out with a plaster body cast.

The main pictorial features porn star Ash Hollywood in a layout whose vintage look will be immediately familiar to long-time readers. Alongside columns by Dennis Hof and Mandy Stadtmiller and a new batch of letters, the latest Penthouse Forum proudly and boldly carries on the vision of Penthouse founder Bob Guccione.

The magazine can also be ordered online at PenthouseForum.com/Forum45.

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

Le Wand Dive Gets Wired.com Review

Le Wand Dive has been spotlighted by WIRED with a review by tech and lifestyle journalist Amanda Chatel.

Blush Introduces 'Splash' Vibe

Blush has debuted its new duck-themed Splash vibrator.

SVibe Debuts 2 New Vibrators

SVibe has introduced the new Snail GIZI Duo and Snail AXI Spot Wand.

ProDx Health Introduces 'Power Femme' Test

ProDx Health has introduced its new Power Femme Home Collection Kit.

Orion Expands Cottelli 'Accessoires' Line

Orion Wholesale has introduced five new “It” pieces from its Cottelli Accessoires line.

ANME Wraps With Product Drops and Partnerships

ANME wrapped on Wednesday, the event’s third day, after delivering a mix of product launches, power meetings and networking — all while preserving the laid-back vibe that attendees say always makes ANME feel like a homecoming.

Playharda Wholesale, Secret Dome Ink U.K. Distro Deal

Playharda Wholesale and BDSM brand Secret Dome have signed a deal for UK distribution.

Hankey's Toys Releases 'Kitsune's Knot' Dildo

Mr. Hankey's Toys has introduced its new Kitsune’s Knot dildo.

Velvet Thruster Signs Distro Deal With ECN

Velvet Thruster has inked a distribution deal with East Coast News (ECN).

Kiiroo Introduces New Agatha Vega Stroker

Kiiroo has debuted the new Agatha Vega stroker sleeve from its FeelStar line.

Show More