BEVERLY HILLS, Calif.—Hustler magazine is this month celebrating 46 years in print with the release of its Anniversary Collector’s Edition, available on newsstands today. Hustler first appeared in July, 1974 and continues to publish monthly, continuing its "mission" of "showcasing gorgeous women, cutting-edge journalism, outrageous cartoons and political satire." Hustler’s aim has always been to bring readers what they couldn’t get from traditional magazines. By November, 1974, the magazine was printing its first “pink shots,” or photos of full female genitalia. More often than nudity, however, it has been Hustler’s satires, parodies and cartoons that have proven the most controversial.
Throughout his career, publisher Larry Flynt has been involved in numerous legal battles regarding free speech regulation in the United States. In the most prominent of these, he won the milestone 1988 U.S. Supreme Court case, Hustler Magazine v. Falwell, after being sued by Reverend Jerry Falwell in 1983 for an ad parody that appeared in the publication. In a precedent-setting unanimous ruling, the High Court held that the interest in protecting free speech surpasses the interest in protecting public figures’ emotions and reputations. This court case is a benchmark in constitutional law and is frequently taught in law schools across America.
The 46th Anniversary Issue features Amy Wilder on the cover and in a 10-page feature spread shot by photographer Ellen Stagg. Editors have also filled this special edition with a selection of classic layouts from yesteryear, including a three-breasted model and a crossdressing pictorial from 1976, as well as some of the hottest stars of today, including Savannah Sixx, Romi Rain and Cherie DeVille.
