Crystal Hefner has responded forcefully to comedian Jon Lovitz's remarks about her criticism of the Playboy Mansion and its former owner, Hugh Hefner. Hefner, the widow of Hugh Hefner, stated that she believes Lovitz is "part of the problem" and characterized men who frequented the mansion as "sexist and misogynistic."
"I think many men who came up to that mansion [and] were very sexist and misogynistic are all part of that problem," Hefner told Page Six in an exclusive interview. She added that she hopes to "dismantle that toxic masculinity and patriarchy just a little bit."
Lovitz had previously responded to Hefner's comments, where she called him one of Hollywood's "biggest pervs" and the Playboy Mansion's "No. 1 customer." In a video obtained by Page Six, Lovitz stated it was a "compliment" to be called No. 1 and defended Hugh Hefner, calling him "one of the nicest, most generous people I've ever met."
Hefner also took issue with Lovitz's implication that her silence on certain matters should be guaranteed because her late husband provided for her financially. "Jon Lovitz had mentioned to me that Hef had bought something for me or paid for something and that I have no reason to speak because of that," Hefner said. "I think his thinking is very outdated."
She elaborated, "That’s really sad that, just because someone buys you something, it guarantees silence." Hefner, who is also the host of the podcast “After the Mansion,” suggested that such views reflect a power dynamic that affects women and is a relic of a past era.
Hefner has been vocal about her experiences at the Playboy Mansion, recently detailing allegations of horrific sex acts, including rape and incest. She stated that she has video evidence of assaults involving friends. She also named Bill Cosby and President Donald Trump as individuals who were part of her late husband's circle, describing them as "like-minded men."
Hefner emphasized the significant influence Hugh Hefner wielded, suggesting that media outlets were reluctant to publish negative stories about him due to his power. "We also need people to know how powerful this man was when he was alive, that the media wanted this man in their pocket and so they didn’t really put out anything negative about Hef,” she explained.
Hefner stated her current stance is one of no longer being afraid to speak out about her experiences and the alleged misconduct that occurred within the mansion. She believes it is important to share these accounts to set a better example for the future and to shed light on issues like coercive control in relationships.