Crystal Hefner, the widow of Playboy founder Hugh Hefner, has publicly expressed her disapproval of a new coming‑of‑age film inspired by her late husband, urging actress Jessica Biel to reconsider a starring role.

Hefner, who married Crystal in 2012, passed away at 91 in 2017. The couple had been together for five years before his death, and Crystal has been the public face of the Playboy brand’s legacy since then. In recent months, a film titled Playmates has emerged as a biographical drama that draws heavily on Hefner’s life and influence on the adult entertainment industry.

According to Deadline, Crystal Hefner shared a screenshot of an Instagram direct message she sent to Biel, in which she asked the actress to “please reconsider” starring in the project. The screenshot, posted by Crystal on her personal social media, shows a polite but firm request, indicating that Crystal feels the film may misrepresent or exploit her husband’s memory. The DM was shared on the same day the film’s production team announced Biel’s involvement, sparking media attention.

Crystal’s objection highlights ongoing tensions over how Hefner’s legacy is portrayed in popular culture. While the film’s producers have not yet responded, the incident underscores the broader debate about the responsibilities of filmmakers to accurately represent real-life figures, especially those who have recently passed away. The conversation may influence the film’s development or casting decisions, and it could set a precedent for other families navigating biographical projects.