The End of an Era: How Hugh Hefner's Legacy Will Continue Beyond The Last Playmate Cover

For nearly seven decades, Playboy magazine has been synonymous with sensuality and sophistication. Founded by visionary publisher Hugh Hefner in 1953, this iconic publication cemented its place as a cultural icon through the countless stars that graced its cover. From sex symbols like Marilyn Monroe to modern-day pin-up queens such as Kate Upton, every actress who dared to bare has at some point or another posed nude for the cameras lens.

Yet times have changed rapidly since Hefner's vision first hit American newsstands back in 1953. The rise of social media platforms and online content delivery services like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, etc., has dramatically altered consumer behavior patterns - particularly among younger generations who increasingly prefer instant gratification over traditional print publications.

As a result, Playboy Inc.'s sales continue their steady decline; last year alone saw circulation numbers plummet by an astonishing 16%. In response to these dire circumstances, the company announced plans earlier this month that would mark another significant chapter in its storied history - the publication of what promises to be its final issue for at least a while longer.

'It's not necessarily goodbye forever,' reassured Scott Flanders, current CEO since December 2010. 'We're just taking a break from print and focusing our resources elsewhere.' He pointed fingers squarely towards technology as being responsible for this seismic shift: 'The Internet has made it possible for anyone to see anything anytime they want anywhere in the world without ever having to pick up a magazine again.'

This bold move comes hot on the heels of similar decisions made by other established publications looking to adapt and survive in an increasingly digital age. Condé Nast's iconic fashion bible Vogue recently announced plans to cease its print edition altogether come September 2018; while Hearst Magazines' Harper's Bazaar followed suit just weeks later.

But what does this mean for the future of traditional media outlets like Playboy? Will they be able to weather the storm and remain relevant in an era where content is king - or will they too succumb to extinction?

Only time (and perhaps a few well-placed PR spin campaigns) will tell.

Last playboy magazine