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

Beisar Introduces New Anal Lubricant

Beisar has introduced its new anal lubricant, expanding its product line beyond pleasure products.

Adam & Eve, Lovehoney Group Partner for Custom Products

Adam & Eve and Lovehoney Group have partnered to introduce two custom editions of We-Vibe vibrators and an advent calendar sex kit.

Lovely Planet, Dorcel Expand Partnership

Lovely Planet, longtime manufacturer and distributor of the Dorcel Toys line, has expanded its partnership with the company to include all Dorcel physical pleasure products.

Arcwave Debuts 'Air' Male Stroker

Arcwave has introduced Air, the newest stroker from its Pleasure Air collection.

Sportsheets Introduces 11-Piece 'Amethyst' Collection From 'Sex & Mischief' Line

Sportsheets is accepting pre-orders for its new Amethyst collection of pleasure accessories from its Sex & Mischief line.

Haute Sugar to Make Industry Debut at XBIZ Expo

Haute Sugar, a new lifestyle brand that blends intimate wellness with fashion-inspired design, will make its industry debut at XBIZ Expo in Los Angeles this January.

Casey Murphy to Host Free Webinar for Indie Product Manufacturers

Industry marketing strategist and certified sex educator Casey Murphy is hosting a free live webinar for independent sexual wellness product manufacturers at 1 p.m. MT today.

Orion Debuts New Thrusting Bullet Vibe From 'Javida' Line

Orion Wholesale has introduced a thrusting bullet vibrator from its Javida collection.

Besharam CEO Raj Armani Featured in Cosmopolitan India Magazine Brand Showcase

Raj Armani, co-founder and CEO of Indian pleasure brand Besharam, was recently featured in a full-page brand showcase advertorial in Cosmopolitan India Magazine.

Aneros Rolls Out Resource Hub for Retailers, Industry Partners

Aneros has launched its new Aneros Media Website, a digital platform to centralize the company's educational resources, product training, point-of-sale materials, and marketing assets for its retailers, distributors, and industry partners.

Show More