Muhammad Ali was one of the most famous celebrities to be interviewed for Playboy Magazine's Celebrity Interview section. In the interview, he discussed his life, career, and views on various topics such as racism, religion, politics, and civil rights. He also talked about his struggles with Parkinson's disease and how it affected him personally and professionally. The interview was conducted by Geraldo Rivera and featured photographs taken by Bert Stern. Ali spoke openly about his faith in Islam and his belief that God had given him the strength to fight against racism and oppression. He also shared his thoughts on the importance of education and the need for young people to stay focused on their goals.
The interview touched on many controversial topics and provided insight into Ali's private life and worldview. He discussed his marriage to Veronica Porsche, who he credited with helping him through some difficult times. He also revealed details about his relationship with his ex-wife Belinda Boyd, who he said was like a sister to him. When asked about his love life, Ali admitted to having affairs outside of his marriage but stated that he always tried to be faithful to his wife. This candidness made the interview unique among others published in the magazine.
In addition to Ali's interview, Playboy featured a gallery of pop culture figures including Muhammad Ali, Bruce Lee, Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, and James Dean. The photos were taken by renowned photographers such as Richard Avedon, Annie Leibovitz, and Helmut Newton. These images showcased the stars in their prime, often posing nude or partially clothed, and sometimes engaging in sexually suggestive behavior. The gallery was designed to appeal to readers who enjoyed erotic imagery while still providing insights into the lives of these celebrities. It helped to establish Playboy's reputation as a publication that could appeal to both men and women.
Overall, Celebrity Interviews & Pop Figures Gallery played an important role in shaping the image of Playboy Magazine as a respected authority on entertainment, popular culture, and sexuality. Its mix of interviews, celebrity profiles, and provocative photography attracted a diverse audience and cemented its place as a cultural institution.