Marilyn Cole is a British model and journalist best known for being Playboy’s Playmate of the Month in January 1972 and later earning the title of Playmate of the Year in 1973.
As the first Playboy centerfold to pose fully nude, she made history and became an enduring symbol of the magazine’s evolution in the 1970s. Beyond her modeling career, Marilyn transitioned into journalism, proving she was more than just a beautiful face.
Early Life and Background
Marilyn Cole was born on May 7, 1949, in Portsmouth, England. Growing up in a working-class family, she had no initial aspirations of entering the modeling world.
Before her big break, she worked as a clerk at a naval dockyard. Her life took a dramatic turn when she was discovered by Playboy while working as a Bunny at the Playboy Club in London. This opportunity changed her path and led her to international fame.
Playboy Fame and Breaking Barriers
In January 1972, Marilyn Cole became Playboy‘s Playmate of the Month, making history as the magazine’s first-ever full-frontal nude centerfold. Her bold and natural beauty set a new standard for the magazine, signaling a shift in the portrayal of female sensuality in mainstream media.
Following her groundbreaking pictorial, she was named Playmate of the Year in 1973, further solidifying her place in Playboy history. During her time with the magazine, she worked closely with founder Hugh Hefner and became a well-known figure within the Playboy empire.
Acting and Media Appearances
While Marilyn Cole’s main claim to fame was her modeling career, she also dabbled in acting and television. She made appearances in films and talk shows, often representing the glamorous Playboy lifestyle of the 1970s. Her charm and intelligence made her a favorite among fans and media outlets alike.
Transition to Journalism and Writing
Unlike many of her fellow Playboy models, Marilyn Cole successfully transitioned into a serious journalism career.
She developed a passion for writing and went on to contribute to prestigious publications, including The Observer and The Sunday Times. She focused on topics like art, culture, and sports, particularly boxing, which she developed a deep interest in.
Personal Life
Marilyn Cole’s life took another interesting turn when she married Victor Lownes, the former head of Playboy‘s UK operations and a key figure in the magazine’s expansion.
Their relationship remained strong until Lownes’ passing in 2017. Marilyn continues to be an active voice in media and often speaks about her experiences in the modeling industry and beyond.
