Hefner's widow asks Jessica Biel to reconsider Playboy biopic role

Crystal Harris, who was married to Hugh Hefner for nearly five years until his death in 2017, contacted actress Jessica Biel via Instagram direct message to ask her to reconsider playing a fictional version of Hefner's wife in the forthcoming movie "Playmates." Harris wrote, "Please reconsider playing Hugh Hefner's 'wife' if this film intends to romanticize him or the Playboy world," and added that she had endured "sexual, emotional, financial and physical abuse" during her marriage. She also referenced allegations from other women about rape, coercion, drugging, exploitation and concerns involving minors, urging filmmakers to listen to those experiences before turning the story into nostalgia.

The casting of Biel, along with Bill Pullman, Lily-Rose Depp and child actress Indiana Elle, was reported by Variety and Deadline on Oct. 6. The film is being produced by Searchlight Pictures.

In February, Harris raised additional concerns about the possible public release of personal scrapbooks and diaries belonging to her late husband, which she says contain intimate images and detailed records of his sexual encounters, some involving minors or women who may not have consented. Her attorney, Gloria Allred, filed complaints with California and Illinois attorneys general over the matter and criticized the foundation that manages Hefner's legacy for retaining the materials.

"It is our honor to represent Crystal Hefner, who is not only Hugh Hefner's widow, but she is also a brilliant and outspoken advocate for women's rights," Allred said in a statement.

USA TODAY sought comment from Biel's representatives but did not receive a response.