Kendra Wilkinson-Baskett looked back at how Hugh Hefner had influenced her life in a heartfelt message. On Wednesday, the Playboy Magazine founder and pop culture icon passed away from natural causes at the age of 91. His death came as a shocker to celebrities and personalities who had known the businessman for his contribution to the entertainment industry.

Hugh Hefner remembered for his legacy in literature, politics

Cooper Hefner was sure that his father has lived an exceptional life on top of making a difference through social and cultural movements.

The chief creative officer for Playboy Enterprises also remembered his dad for his advocacy and campaign on several societal issues.

"He defined a lifestyle and ethos that lie at the heart of the Playboy brand, one of the most recognizable and enduring in history," he said in a statement, as cited by CNBC.

The lifestyle and entertainment magazine also remembered Hugh Hefner for his contribution to literature, politics, and culture. It also named the late founder a "standard setter" during his time.

Meanwhile, Kendra Wilkinson-Baskett expressed her gratitude to the late Hugh Hefner for his friendship and influence. The 32-year-old glamour model was previously in a relationship with the Playboy Magazine founder.

She was one of his three girlfriends featured on "The Girls Next Door" with Holly Madison and Bridget Marquardt.

Kendra Wilkinson-Baskett and Hugh Hefner were together for four years before they called it quits in 2009. "I couldn't be more thankful for our friendship and our time together. I will miss him so much but he will be in my heart forever," she said.

In her previous interview, the "Kendra On Top" star said Hugh Hefner was "very healthy" when she last saw him early this year. She even said that they had a great conversation and reassured that the businessman was doing well contrary to reports about his health condition.

Although things did not end well in their relationship, the reality star still considered Hugh Hefner a family.

"I'm not gonna lie every day I open up my social media I pray that I don't see what we think might happen," she said.

Stars react to sudden death of Playboy Magazine founder

Several celebrities and the online community also mourned the passing of Hugh Hefner on social media.

Jenny McCarthy, on the other hand, uploaded her Playboy Magazine cover and thanked the late founder for touching many lives.

Rob Lowe also recounted his interactions with Hugh Hefner before he praised him for being a "true legend."
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