Hugh Hefner Docuseries Set at Amazon

August 11, 2016 6:00am PT by Natalie Jarvey

'American Playboy: The Hugh Hefner Story' will use footage and photos from Hefner's personal archives.

Amazon is giving Hugh Hefner the docuseries treatment. 

The streamer announced Thursday that it has ordered 13 episodes of American Playboy: The Hugh Hefner Story. Slated for a 2017 premiere, American Playboy will combine footage and scrapbooks from Hefner's personal archive with interviews and cinematic reenactments to tell the story of the founding of Playboy and explore Hefner's role in shaping American culture. 

"Although Hugh Hefner is an iconic figure known worldwide, most people may not be aware of the impact he has had on some of this country's most important social revolutions," said Amazon Studios unscripted head Conrad Riggs. "We are excited to bring Prime members the untold story of Mr. Hefner's remarkable life and his contributions to modern American history."

Hefner has been involved in the project, sharing first-person accounts and never-before-told stories. "It has been a long road in finding the right partners to tell the full story of Playboy as it has unfolded over these past 63 years," said Hefner. "I'm pleased that this docuseries will shed light on what has been an incredible journey and the voice Playboy has had in the discussion of our ever-changing culture. Just as importantly, my hope is that it will inspire others to pursue their dreams."

The series is being produced by Stephen David Entertainment and Alta Loma Entertainment. Stephen David executive produces along with Peter Jaysen and Dick Rosenzweig. Shirley Escott and Tim Kelly serve as co-executive producers.