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 'Phantom' Dildo

Beisar has debuted its Phantom fantasy dildo.

Full Circle to Debut New Pleasure Products at ANME

Full Circle will introduce its new AI companion love dolls and head-equipped torso dolls at ANME trade show, running July 12-15 at the Burbank Marriott.

Our Erotic Journey Rolls Out Store Locator Site Feature

Our Erotic Journey (OEJ) has debuted its new Store Locator feature on its website and app.

Zalo Signs Distro Deal With ECN

Zalo has inked a deal with East Coast News (ECN) for U.S. distribution.

Toendi Debuts 'Aurora 2' Vibe

Toendi has unveiled its new Aurora 2 vibrator.

Je Joue 'ILY G-Spot Wand' Featured in Vice Review

Je Joue’s ILY G-Spot Wand has been named Best G-Spot Wand in a new round-up of the best wand vibrators on Vice.com.

Beisar Introduces 'Pelor' Anal Vibe

Beisar has debuted its Pelor vibrating anal pleasure product.

Holiday Now Shipping 'Zumio X2' Stimulator

Holiday Products is now shipping the Zumio X2 clitoral stimulator.

CalExotics Appoints Lupe Martinez, Austin Ferdinand to Executive Team

CalExotics has named Lupe Martinez as its new executive director of marketing and Austin Ferdinand as vice president of business development.

Sportsheets Names Emily Silva Director of Product and Merchandising

Sportsheets has appointed Emily Silva as its new director of product and merchandising.

Show More