Gent is one of the most popular men's magazines that were published during the heyday of print media in the late 20th century, but it stands out from its competitors for several reasons, including its approach to model selection for its cover stories. While Playboy featured well-known celebrities such as Marilyn Monroe, Raquel Welch, and Farrah Fawcett, Gent focused primarily on models and lesser-known figures who had not yet achieved widespread recognition. This editorial choice gave Gent a different feel than Playboy, which was often more focused on star power than on glamour and beauty.
One reason why this strategy worked so well for Gent was that it allowed the magazine to maintain a consistent tone throughout each issue, rather than relying too heavily on celebrity gossip or personalities to drive sales. By featuring models who were less likely to be recognized by readers, Gent created an intimate atmosphere between the viewer and the subject of the centerfold spread. In addition, focusing on lesser-known individuals helped to create a sense of exclusivity and rarity around the magazine, making it feel like something special that readers needed to seek out to see.
Another benefit of this approach was that it allowed Gent to avoid some of the pitfalls associated with celebrity culture, such as scandals or controversy. By focusing on the beauty of women rather than their fame or public persona, Gent could maintain a sense of innocence and escapism that made the magazine feel more enjoyable to read. Of course, there is nothing wrong with featuring famous people on the covers of magazines, but doing so can also invite controversy and scrutiny from outside sources. Gent's decision to focus on models instead of stars gave them greater control over their image and ensured that they could present a more cohesive narrative about what they stood for.
Finally, by showcasing models who were lesser known at the time, Gent was able to give its readers access to a broader range of talent than their competitors. This meant that every month featured new faces and bodies to admire, keeping the content fresh and exciting even after several issues had been published. It also meant that Gent did not have to rely solely on a handful of celebrities to generate buzz or interest in each issue, which might have been difficult given the limited number of big names available. Instead, Gent was free to feature any woman whose beauty struck them as exceptional enough to grace the cover.
In conclusion, Gent's decision to feature lesser-known models and models rather than relying too heavily on star power was an effective strategy that helped set the magazine apart from its competitors. By creating a different tone and atmosphere around their centerfold spreads, Gent was able to offer something unique and desirable to readers without having to navigate the complicated world of celebrity culture.