Playmate – Janet Pilgrim. Fiction by Michael Arlen, Herbert Gold

Centerfold: Janet Pilgrim (born Charlaine Edith Karalus; June 13, 1934 – May 1, 2017) was an American model who became a Playmate of the Month while employed at Playboy’s corporate office. She was chosen as Playmate of the Month three times: July 1955, December 1955 and October 1956.

In 1955, Playboy was in its second year of production and had previously used professional models as Playmates.[1] Karalus worked for Hugh Hefner in the subscription department and agreed to pose for the July 1955 episode in exchange for a new addressograph for the office. Hefner reportedly chose the name “Janet Pilgrim” as to make fun of sexual puritanism.

Karalus appeared topless with a tuxedo-clad man reported to be Hefner in the background with his back to the camera. The caption read in part: “We found Miss July in our own circulation department, processing subscriptions, renewals, and back copy orders. Her name is Janet Pilgrim and she’s as efficient as she is good looking.”