On Wednesday evening, Playboy confirmed to E! News that its founder had passed away from natural causes at his home, The Playboy Mansion, surrounded by loved ones. He was 91 years old.

On Wednesday evening, Playboy confirmed to E! News that its founder had passed away from natural causes at his home, The Playboy Mansion, surrounded by loved ones. He was 91 years old.

"My father lived an exceptional and impactful life as a media and cultural pioneer and a leading voice behind some of the most significant social and cultural movements of our time in advocating free speech, civil rights and sexual freedom," Cooper Hefnershared when the news was confirmed. "He defined a lifestyle and ethos that lie at the heart of the Playboy brand, one of the most recognizable and enduring in history."

Hugh's son added, "He will be greatly missed by many, including his wife Crystal, my sister Christie and my brothers David and Marston, and all of us at Playboy Enterprises."