On Wednesday, September 27, the founder of Playboy, Hugh Hefner passed away at his famous mansion surrounded by loved ones.
Hefner not only changed the way America and the world viewed sex, he had a huge impact on popular culture and publishing. He helped shape the careers of many celebrities and he broke down barriers that stood in the way of free speech and civil rights.
Minutes after the news of his death broke, tributes began to pour in. From actors and politicians, to former Playmates and cover models, social media was filled with messages, videos, and photos that honor the businessman's legacy.
So sad to hear the news about @HughHefner. 😢 #RIPHef pic.twitter.com/IQiEYhMfvf
— Paris Hilton (@ParisHilton) September 28, 2017
Hugh Hefner's definition of obscenity:
— bob saget (@bobsaget) September 28, 2017
"Racism, war, bigotry, but sex itself, no. What a sad cold world this would be if we weren't sexual beings...I mean, that's the heart of who we are."
Paris & I are reminiscing about the Playboy parties at the mansion & how much we love Hef. She's texts me the perfect Hef emojis 👯👯👯👯👴ðŸ¼ðŸ‘¯ðŸ‘¯ðŸ‘¯ðŸ‘¯ðŸ‘¯
— Kim Kardashian West (@KimKardashian) September 28, 2017
Hugh Hefner was a GIANT in publishing, journalism, free speech & civil rights. He was a true original, and he was my friend. Rest well Hef. pic.twitter.com/bJ1wxoK4gR
— Larry King (@kingsthings) September 28, 2017
But the most heartfelt tribute of them all came from model and actress Pamela Anderson, who owes her success to Hefner. Anderson graced the cover of Playboy in October 1989 which helped launched her career in Hollywood. She appeared in the publication frequently, and was named Playmate of the month in February 1990.
The star and Hefner remained close friends ever since, so it is only natural that Anderson is taking his death a lot harder than most.
Earlier today, she posted a tearful video message saying goodbye to Hefner.
In the video posted to her official Instagram page, a distressed Anderson's eye makeup is running as she whispers "Goodbye, Hef" in between the sobs.
She also posted a heartfelt message in which she acknowledged the impact Hefner has had on her life.
"I am me because of you," wrote Anderson. "You taught me everything important about freedom and respect."
She called Hefner "the most important person" in her life outside of her family.
"You gave me my life... People tell me all the time," she continued.
The Baywatch star also said that the last time she saw Hefner his health was failing, but he still managed to make her feel special.
"Last time I saw you, you were using a walker. You didn't want me to see," Anderson wrote. "You couldn't hear. You had a piece of paper in your pocket you showed me - with my name Pamela with a heart around it."
She thanked Hefner for being there for her and her boys, adding that he made the world "a better place."
"You were a gentleman charming, elegant, chivalrous And so much fun. Goodbye Hef ... Your Pamela," she concluded the beautiful note.
You can read the entire emotional tribute below:
What are your thoughts on Anderson's tribute to Hefner?
