Liz Flynt: How Hustler's Widow Built a Multimedia Empire
- Penelope Dario
- Aug 30
- 10 min read
PENELOPE DARIO IN CONVERSATION with LIZ FLYNT
PHOTOGRAPHY by PENELOPE DARIO
SHOT at THE HUSTLER HEADQUARTERS in LOS ANGELES
Liz Flynt is no stranger to controversy—she married it.
As the widow of Hustler founder Larry Flynt, Liz inherited more than a media empire; she inherited a battlefield of free speech, sexual politics, and the blurred lines between provocation and purpose. But she’s never simply stood in her husband’s shadow. For decades, Liz has quietly—but powerfully—shaped the business behind the scenes, helping turn Hustler into a multimedia brand that’s both reviled and revered. In this rare interview, Liz opens up about her life with Larry, her role in Hustler’s evolution, and what it means to carry on a legacy that was never afraid to piss people off.
PETIT MORT (Penelope Dario)
In an interview with the LA Times, you mentioned, "I think Larry always knew what his plan was by having me here." How did your relationship as his nurse evolve into marriage and, ultimately, as his professional successor?
Liz Flynt
I met my husband in November of 1991. I’m an RN by trade. Larry asked me out a year later, but I said no. He kept asking, and eventually, I said, "Okay, how about you come to my home for dinner and meet my sister and my mom?" So he came, and I made dinner with my best friend.
That's so sweet. What did you cook for him?
I made prime rib, mashed potatoes, green beans, and Yorkshire pudding, which was very challenging. He came with his driver, bringing a bottle of wine and roses for my mom, my sister, and myself.
What a gentleman. That’s incredible. After that, did you feel like, “Okay, I think this guy’s all right?”
Yes, he impressed me. He didn’t stay after dinner; he left so he wouldn’t overstay his welcome.
That’s always a good sign! So, how did those conversations start happening where he was preparing you to take over? Did he plan for you to step into the business?
In 1993, I resigned from my job at UCLA, where I worked when I met him. In 1994, Larry said, "You're going back to work." I thought, "Okay, I'll go back to UCLA and do something." But he said, "No, I'm giving you a job at the company." I didn’t think I could do it, but he insisted, "Don’t worry, I’ll mentor you." So, he started me in the talent department.
So, you were doing casting?
Yes, casting and organizing talent for California and other locations. I learned to edit in the ‘90s, when Larry would edit the magazine. The photo department and art director would set up the magazine layouts, with the chrome lens.
