Barbi Benton: Playboy, Hefner, & What She's Doing Now!
Ever wondered about the woman who captivated Hugh Hefner for years? Barbi Benton, a name synonymous with the Playboy empire and multifaceted talent, is more than just a former flame; she's a successful entrepreneur, a devoted mother, and a woman who left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
Barbi Benton, born Barbara Lynn Klein on January 28, 1950, in New York City, embarked on her journey to stardom at a young age. Growing up in a Jewish household, with her father a gynecologist and her mother an investment counselor, Benton's early life provided a stable foundation for her future ambitions. By 16, she had already set her sights on Hollywood, moving to Los Angeles to pursue her dreams. It wasn't long before her striking looks and undeniable charisma caught the attention of the industry, leading to modeling opportunities and, eventually, a life-altering encounter with Hugh Hefner.
| Barbi Benton: Biographical and Professional Information | |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Barbara Lynn Klein (Barbi Benton) |
| Date of Birth | January 28, 1950 |
| Birth Place | New York City, New York, USA |
| Age (as of Late 2023) | 73 years old |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Retired Model, Actress, Singer, Songwriter, Television Personality, Interior Decorator, Real Estate Investor |
| Years Active | 1968 - 1986 (Showbiz) |
| Relationship with Hugh Hefner | Dated from 1969 to 1976 |
| Marital Status | Married to George Gradow (since October 14, 1979) |
| Children | Alexander Gradow, Ariana Gradow |
| Early Career | Modeling in Los Angeles from age 16 |
| Playboy Appearances | Cover model four times (July 1969, March 1970, May 1972, December 1985), Additional nude photo layouts in 1973 and 1975 |
| Television Career | Regular on "Hee Haw," Host of "Barbi Benton Presents: Best Buns on the Beach" and "Barbi Benton Presents: Stripper of the Year" |
| Musical Career | Recorded several albums in the 1970s |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | Reportedly made $1 million from Playboy, Hee Haw, and Brass Buckles. Additional wealth from real estate ventures. |
| Current Residence | Los Angeles, California |
| Other Notable Activities | Real Estate Investment and Interior Design |
| Reference | Barbi Benton on IMDb |
The late 1960s marked the beginning of Benton's ascent, landing modeling jobs and capturing the attention of Hugh Hefner, the editor and chief of Playboy magazine, in 1968. This relationship catapulted her into the spotlight, solidifying her place as a prominent figure in the Playboy world. From 1969 to 1976, Benton and Hefner were an item, their romance a constant subject of media attention. During this period, Barbi graced the cover of Playboy magazine four times: July 1969, March 1970, May 1972, and December 1985, alongside other nude pictorials in 1973 and 1975. Despite these numerous appearances, she never officially held the title of Playmate of the Month.
Her influence on Hefner extended beyond their romantic involvement. It was Benton who famously convinced Hefner to purchase the iconic Playboy Mansion, a decision that would forever shape the image of the Playboy empire. She was more than just a beautiful face; she possessed a keen understanding of Hefner's vision and the potential of his brand. After appearing on the show "Playboy After Dark," Benton started dating Hefner, and she had what would end up being one of the most massive influences on him of any of his girlfriends. It was Benton who convinced Hefner to purchase the Playboy mansion.
Beyond her association with Playboy, Barbi Benton carved out a successful career in television and music. She became a regular on the popular comedy series "Hee Haw," showcasing her comedic timing and versatility. In the 1970s, she also released several moderately successful albums, further demonstrating her artistic talents. Her musical endeavors added another dimension to her public persona, solidifying her status as a multifaceted entertainer.
In 1990, Benton ventured into producing her own shows, "Barbi Benton Presents: Best Buns on the Beach" and "Barbi Benton Presents: Stripper of the Year." However, these projects failed to garner significant popularity. She also made appearances in "Once Upon a Time" in 1992 and "Playboy: The Party Continues" in 2000, adding to her diverse portfolio of work.
Benton's relationship with Hefner ended in 1976. Despite their split, Hefner later expressed regret over not marrying her. After their breakup, Hefner quickly moved on, dating Sondra Theodore the same year. Benton, on the other hand, found love with George Gradow, a real estate developer with an estimated net worth of $50 million. They met in 1977 through a mutual friend, Liz Prince, a former employee of Gradow's. The couple tied the knot on October 14, 1979, and have been happily married ever since. Together, they have two children: Alexander, born in 1988 (age 35), and Ariana, born in 1990 (age 33).
After retiring from showbiz in 1986, Benton transitioned into the world of real estate. Today, she is known for her successful endeavors in the field, leveraging her keen eye for design and impeccable taste to renovate and transform properties into desirable homes. Her passion for interior design shines through in her real estate ventures, showcasing her creative talents and business acumen. Benton has taken a break from her career, and now she is living in Los Angeles with her children and husband. She also works as an interior designer. Barbi and george first met in 1977 through a mutual friend named liz prince, a former employee to george
Benton remained supportive of Hefner even after their relationship ended. She defended him against accusations and visited him before his death in 2017. Her loyalty and affection for Hefner were evident, showcasing a bond that transcended their romantic past. She still misses him after his death.
While various sources offer different estimates, it is believed that Barbi Benton accumulated a significant fortune throughout her career. Some reports suggest that she made $1 million from Playboy, "Hee Haw," and brass buckles. Her successful real estate ventures have undoubtedly added to her wealth, solidifying her financial stability. She made her appearance as a model in playboy magazine at the age of 18.
Barbi Benton's journey from a young model in New York City to a prominent figure in the entertainment industry is a testament to her talent, ambition, and resilience. She is a successful entrepreneur, a devoted mother, and a woman who left an indelible mark on the Playboy empire and beyond. Barbi benton, a name synonymous with glamour and entertainment, continues to captivate audiences even today. Known for her multifaceted career, benton first rose to fame in the 1970s as a model, actress, and singer. Her keen eye for design and impeccable taste are evident in the properties she has renovated and transformed into desirable homes.
As of late 2023, Barbi Benton is 73 years old. She continues to reside in Los Angeles with her husband, George Gradow, enjoying a fulfilling life outside the spotlight. Born 1950 as barbara lynn klein in new york city, barbi benton began to model at the age of 16, and at age 18 took a job with playboy to appear on their entertainment show playboy after dark.
Entrepreneur George Gradow in 1979, says she saw hefner about six months ago.
In 1979, benton married real estate developer george gradow, and they have two children together. Barbi benton is happily married to her husband, george gradow who is real estate developer by profession since 1979. More to that, the beautiful couple is proud parents of two children.
Advertisement barbi benton was born on january 28, 1950, in new york, new york, in.
Barbi benton was born on 28 january 1950 in new york city, new york, usa.
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