Pamela Anderson Distraught Over Hugh Hefner's Death, Shares Tearful Tribute

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Pamela Anderson Distraught Over Hugh Hefner's Death, Shares Tearful Tribute

On Wednesday, September 27, the founder of Playboy, Hugh Hefner passed away at his famous mansion surrounded by loved ones.

Hefner not only changed the way America and the world viewed sex, he had a huge impact on popular culture and publishing. He helped shape the careers of many celebrities and he broke down barriers that stood in the way of free speech and civil rights.

Minutes after the news of his death broke, tributes began to pour in. From actors and politicians, to former Playmates and cover models, social media was filled with messages, videos, and photos that honor the businessman's legacy.

So sad but forever grateful for all the wonderful memories and amazing experiences #RIPHef #Playboy 💔

A post shared by Bridget Marquardt (@bridgetmarquardt) on

But the most heartfelt tribute of them all came from model and actress Pamela Anderson, who owes her success to Hefner. Anderson graced the cover of Playboy in October 1989 which helped launched her career in Hollywood. She appeared in the publication frequently, and was named Playmate of the month in February 1990.

The star and Hefner remained close friends ever since, so it is only natural that Anderson is taking his death a lot harder than most.

Earlier today, she posted a tearful video message saying goodbye to Hefner.

In the video posted to her official Instagram page, a distressed Anderson's eye makeup is running as she whispers "Goodbye, Hef" in between the sobs.

She also posted a heartfelt message in which she acknowledged the impact Hefner has had on her life.

"I am me because of you," wrote Anderson. "You taught me everything important about freedom and respect."

She called Hefner "the most important person" in her life outside of her family.

"You gave me my life... People tell me all the time," she continued.

The Baywatch star also said that the last time she saw Hefner his health was failing, but he still managed to make her feel special.

"Last time I saw you, you were using a walker. You didn't want me to see," Anderson wrote. "You couldn't hear. You had a piece of paper in your pocket you showed me - with my name Pamela with a heart around it."

Playboy Enterprises

She thanked Hefner for being there for her and her boys, adding that he made the world "a better place."

"You were a gentleman charming, elegant, chivalrous And so much fun. Goodbye Hef ... Your Pamela," she concluded the beautiful note.

You can read the entire emotional tribute below:

Goodbye #Hef Mr Hefner I have so many thoughts, I have no brain n right now to edit I am me because of you You taught me everything important about freedom and respect. Outside of my family You were the most important person in my life. You gave me my life... People tell me all the time That I was your favorite... I'm in such deep shock. But you were old, your back hurt you so much. Last time I saw you You were using a walker. You didn't want me to see. You couldn't hear. You had a piece of paper in your pocket you showed me - with my name Pamela with a heart around it. Now, I'm falling apart. This feeling is so crazy. It's raining in Paris now. I'm by the window. Everything anyone loves about me is because you understood me. Accepted me and encouraged me to be myself. Love like no one else. Live recklessly With unfiltered abandon. You said the magazine was about a girl like me. That I embody the spirit you fantasized about. I was the one. You said. I can hear you say - Be brave. There are no rules. Live your life I'm proud of you. There are no mistakes. And with men - Enjoy ... (Your wonderful laugh) You have the world by the tail You are a good girl And you are so loved - You are not crazy. You are wild and free Stay strong, Stay vulnerable. ... "It's movie time" You loved my boys ... You were always, always there for us. With your love Your crazy wisdom. I will miss your everything. Thank you for making the world a better place. A freeer and sexier place. You were a gentleman charming, elegant, chivalrous And so much fun. Goodbye Hef ... Your Pamela 💋

A post shared by The Pamela Anderson Foundation (@pamelaanderson) on

What are your thoughts on Anderson's tribute to Hefner?

Blair isn't a bestselling author, but she has a knack for beautiful prose. When she isn't writing for Shared, she enjoys listening to podcasts.