Sex Toy Almost Killed Hugh Hefner

LOS ANGELES — A new tell-all book about the life of Playboy founder Hugh Hefner includes a story about how he almost choked to death on a sex toy.

The story, which was reported in the National Enquirer, came from interviews Hefner did with author Steven Watts an upcoming book, "Mr. Playboy: Hugh Hefner and the American Dream."

When Hefner was dating Miss July 1977, Sondra Theodore, they were in bed "using a small sex toy" when it fell into Hefner's mouth. Hefner began choking and Theodore "started pumping his chest until the toy was dislodged."

Hefner, now 82, has called the book "the most authoritative book ever written about me," saying "it's all essentially true."

Related:  

Copyright © 2026 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

Woodhull Survey Reveals Concern Among Sex Educators Over AV Laws' Impact on Access

A national survey of sex educators by the Woodhull Freedom Foundation found that a majority of sex educators and sexual health professionals are concerned that age verification (AV) laws will negatively impact access to information and resources.

Metro Distributors Taps Nancy Cosimini for Sales Account Manager

Metro Distributors has hired industry veteran Nancy Cosimini as its newest sales account manager.

OTouch Debuts 'YU-BattleHelm' Vibe Set

OTouch has introduced its YU-BattleHelm couples vibrator set.

Orion Debuts 'G-Spot Vibrator With Rotating Tickler' From Sweet Smile Line

Orion Wholesale has introduced the G-Spot Vibrator With Rotating Tickler from its Sweet Smile line.

CalExotics Expands 'Connect' Line

CalExotics has expanded its app-controlled Connect line with three new products, Explorer, Warming Wand, and Advanced Probe.

JO Debuts 'Vitalize' Skincare Line

JO has introduced its new Vitalize collection of skincare products.

Group C CEO Helena Catoir Collaborates With Pierre Woodman on 'Woodman Casting' Game

Helena Catoir, CEO of board game company Group C, met with casting director Pierre Woodman to discuss the upcoming release, “Woodman Casting X — The Game.”

Blush Debuts 'Candice' From 'EnLust' Stroker Collection

Blush has introduced the new Candice stroker sleeve from its EnLust line.

Honey Play Box Introduces 'Vibrosa Mini' Egg Vibe

Honey Play Box has debuted its new Vibrosa Mini app-controlled egg vibrator.

Blush Introduces 'Temptasia Ardor' Collection of Bondage Accessories

Blush has debuted its Temptasia Ardor collection of bondage accessories at the Altitude Intimates Show in Las Vegas.

Show More