Despite it being the year I earned my degree from the Harvard of Central New York (Syracuse University), 1994 wasn't the greatest of times. O.J. went from running in airports to running to airports ... while his ex-wife lay dead at the hands of a yet-unknown killer. Other major events that year: Susan Smith drowning her babies and Pat Riley allowing John Starks to shoot (and shoot!) and miss (and miss!) against the Rockets in the NBA Finals. Oh, and the Yankees got robbed of a World Series because MLB owners — who obviously own the entire league — prevented themselves from staging a World Series. (Genius!)
Among 1994's dark clouds, however, was a significant silver lining, and it came packaged in a 5-11 frame. Donna Perry got naked for the world as Playboy's November 1994 Playmate.
Since then, the Hawaii resident has participated in numerous Playboy projects and launched her official website, titled DonnaPerry.com. I recently had the chance to ask Donna about her modeling career and her Internet interests...
1. What were your goals for DonnaPerry.com when you started it, and how's it been going so far?
At first I wasn't sure. All the other girls were doing it and I thought why not?! I'ts not like they were jumping off bridges! Now it's like extra credit, it is something I have fun doing.
2. Your site has a pay model. What are the costs and what are the member benefits, besides a whole lot of masturbation?
It's $14.95 per month and, if you keep your membership, it is $12.95. You get to see everything, and I mean everything =}. I have me, of course, and some "Girlfriends." I have a few candids that I need to update, a menu of recipes that I have made up for those who, like me, enjoy cooking, a puzzle, some artwork, a messageboard ... you get the idea.
3. Are you hands-on with the site, or is most of work done for you?
Hands on. Though I couldn't have done it without my webmaster, Kana!
4. Are you a 'Net junkie in general? What are some of your favorite sites?
I don't surf much, but I have been known to check some out when one has been pointed out to me ... such as PaulKatcher.com.
5. Besides the November 1994 centerfold shoot, what other work have you done for Playboy?
August 1994 Models of Milan. I was in a Ferrari, a video box cover for one of the sexy lingerie movies and a video titled Hot Vacations: Wet and Wild. Not to mention all the travel I have done.
6. After your centerfold and appearances in Playboy's special issues and videos, were you often recognized on the street?
Only once. It was in Australia.
7. In your online bio, you say that working for Playboy has been a great experience and that you have no regrets. Did any situations come up where your Playboy work was not seen in such positive light?
Men's Fitness magazine was interested in using me after they saw my comp card, but when the November 1994 issue hit the stands it was, "that's okay, we've seen her body ... all of it."
8. Who has the longest running streak of consecutive Playboy party appearances, Scott Baio or Bill Maher?
I think they are about tied, though Bill is pushing for a win.
9. Is Hef really as irresistible as his reputation indicates?
He's very charming and a perfect gentleman but not irresistible, at least to me.
10. Is (or was) posing nude for you all about money, or did you get something out of it emotionally/spiritually?
Well, the money was good — I won't lie about that — but I did it because I was always the girl without a date in school. No boyfriend. Nothing. Don't worry I caught up! =} So when they asked me about it I was like hell yeah!
11. Did posing for Playboy and being part of the magazine's culture change any of your thoughts on sexuality?
Not sexuality — was doing fine in that department =} — but it did change my thoughts on stereotypes that people put on "nude models."
12. What's next for DonnaPerry.com, and are there any other Internet projects on the horizon for you?
Not too sure. Hope to get some feedback from fans and people right here! =} Thanks, Paul! It was great for me; hope the same for you!
Paul's Recap: Thanks to Donna for answering a few questions on two of my favorite topics: the Internet and the beautiful women who make it great. And by the powers vested in me, I now command you to pay a visit to DonnaPerry.com and see what lies beneath. My suggestion would be to not visit the site from your office, unless your company either: a) welcomes viewing of nude models; or b) offers a really great severance.
You might also be interested in seeing VH1's Centerfold Babylon, which airs Thursday, Oct. 16 at 9 p.m. ET. The show promises to "undress the nude modeling industry." (Thanks to Art for the link.)
Want to be interviewed for a future installment of Full Disclosure? Just e-mail paul@paulkatcher.com.
