Crystal Hefner Urges Jessica Biel to Reconsider Role in “Playmates” Film Amid Abuse Allegations

Almost a decade after Hugh Hefner’s passing, his widow is publicly expressing concerns about an upcoming film inspired by the Playboy founder’s life. Crystal Hefner, who was married to the Playboy icon from 2012 until his death in 2017, shared a screenshot of a direct message she sent to Jessica Biel regarding the actress’s potential role in Lorraine Nicholson’s Searchlight Pictures film Playmates.

“Please reconsider playing Hugh Hefner’s ‘wife’ if this film intends to romanticize him or the Playboy world,” Crystal wrote in the message. “I was actually his wife, and I experienced sexual, emotional, financial, and physical abuse in that relationship. Other women have come forward with allegations of rape, coercion, drugging, and exploitation, as well as concerns involving minors. I hope those involved in this film listen to the women who lived it before Hollywood romanticizes the past.”

Playmates, written and directed by Nicholson, is inspired by her childhood friendship with Hefner’s children. The film follows a coming-of-age narrative centered on 13-year-old Elle (played by Indiana Elle), who considers the Playboy Mansion her second home. During her time there, Elle forms a bond with Anna (Lily-Rose Depp), one of seven women vying for Playmate of the Month. Their friendship drives a story about ambition and self-discovery, as they navigate personal goals and relationships.

Crystal emphasized in a follow-up post that she hopes the film avoids glorifying Hugh Hefner. “With women in leading roles, my aim is for the film to deliver an empowering message—to show that women can find fulfillment, independence, and identity beyond Playboy,” she stated.

The movie features Bill Pullman as Hugh Hefner, with Biel’s character portrayed as a fictional character unrelated to Hefner’s real-life spouses. Since Hefner’s death in 2017, Crystal has been vocal about the toxic dynamics of the Playboy Mansion, including her own experiences, while other models have similarly shared allegations of mistreatment in the organization.