In the late 1960s, a young blonde named Barbi Benton captivated audiences on Playboy After Dark. At just eighteen, she began as an extra, but her natural charisma quickly earned her a spot as co-host—especially after Hugh Hefner took notice and persuaded her to change her name from Barbara Klein to the more enticing “Barbi Benton.”
Over the following years, Benton seamlessly moved between modeling, television, and music. She appeared on the cover of Playboy four times, starting in July 1969 and continuing through the mid-1970s, becoming one of the most cherished personalities of the era.
Her influence extended beyond the spotlight—alongside her work in acting and music, she reportedly played a key role in Hefner’s decision to buy the now-famous Playboy Mansion in 1974.