The iconic Playboy brand is making a comeback with a modern twist, focusing on artful and thoughtful representations of nudity, while maintaining its rich history of storytelling and journalism.
New editor-in-chief and chief brand officer Phillip Picardi emphasizes that Playboy has always been about more than just nudity, but rather the art of desire and the portrayal of eroticism.
Picardi notes that the current state of pornography is vastly different from what Playboy once represented, with a focus on "bringing back an artfulness and a thoughtfulness to nudity" in the magazine's relaunch.
The second issue of the quarterly magazine features actress-model Cara Delevingne wearing only a latex corset, and a larger print run is planned after the first issue sold out.
Playboy will continue to showcase Playmates of the month, but with a twist - the models will have full control over how much of their bodies they expose, and will be involved in the creative process, including approving photographers and stylists.
Picardi emphasizes that the magazine's approach to nudity is centered around the idea that women should be in control of their own bodies and images, and that this approach has led to a more authentic and raw representation of women.
The relaunch of Playboy is focused on restoring the storytelling that once drove the magazine's influence, while expanding the brand across digital, social media, and videos.
With a renewed focus on journalism and celebrity interviews, Playboy aims to be a respectful and modern brand that is inviting and inclusive for all individuals, while maintaining its iconic status as a leader in the publication industry.
The magazine's relaunch comes after a tumultuous period, with Playboy ceasing regular print production in 2020, but has seen a significant increase in revenue, with $120.9 million in revenue during 2025, up 4% from the previous year.
Picardi and David Miller, Playboy's president of media and brand, were hired earlier this year to resuscitate the company's media operations, and are working to bring the brand back to its roots while making it feel fresh and modern.
The new Playboy magazine will be a similar take on the original publication, but done in a new way, with a focus on artful and thoughtful representations of nudity, and a commitment to restoring the storytelling that once made the magazine iconic.
