Taylor Hale made history when she became the first Black woman to win Big Brother, catapulting her even further into the public eye (even more so, perhaps, than the 24/7 surveillance feed broadcast to the entire viewing audience). After leaving the Big Brother house, Hale’s career only went up—meaning more views, more eyes on her. And now, Hale is Playboy’s Miss March, making her debut in the magazine.

But Hale’s Playmate shoot wasn’t about putting herself on display for public consumption—it was about taking control of her image, presenting herself how she wants to be seen. To accompany her shoot, Hale penned an essay for Playboy about the politics of reality TV, social media, and visibility, particularly for women.

“For women especially, visibility has become one of the few reliable ways to bypass traditional gatekeepers. We no longer need to be discovered through pageants or talent searches. Or, to be coy, the pages of Playboy,” she writes. “But visibility also changes the terms of ownership. Once you become visible enough, the public begins to feel like a participant in your existence. Except they’re not just an audience; they’re a stakeholder as well.”

To take back the reigns, Hale chose Kanya Iwana as the photographer for this shoot, “a woman who understands what I mean when I say I want these images to be something that allows me ownership over my body,” according to Hale. Alongside her essay, the result, she writes, is “an opportunity for reclamation—for active consent in my most vulnerable form.”

Here, enjoy Hale’s stunning photos, and read a behind-the-scenes interview. Pre-order our Spring 2026 issue to see the rest.

Why did you decide to pose for Playboy?

I decided to pose for Playboy because I come from some pretty rigid industries where the world will define who you are, and this is a little bit of an unconventional way for me to share my inner thoughts and how I really see myself.

What are you most proud of with this shoot?

What was really interesting to me about this shoot is how glamorous and beautiful it is, and I’m just really excited to show that glamor and beauty can go hand in hand with something that’s more sensual.

Who is your favorite reality TV personality?

My favorite reality TV personality would have to be the OG, the icon, the queen, Tiffany Pollard. It’s cool to see someone be so unafraid of being uninhibited and free on TV. If you never watched I Love New York, It’s mandatory homework.

What makes you feel most sexy and confident?

I feel really sexy and confident with a good pair of heels. Five and a half to six inches is more my style.

What would surprise a potential suitor about you?

I’m a teaser. That’s my way of flirting. Gotta have thick skin to be with me.

Who’s your favorite past Playmate?

My favorite past playmate is Jordan Emanuel, Playmate of the Year. She’s sexy, confident, gorgeous, super successful afterwards, and also a good friend.

What do you hope people will think about your Playboy shoot?

I hope that when people see my Playboy shoot, they see that strength and vulnerability are two entities that can go hand in hand. One doesn’t have to be sacrificed to achieve and celebrate the other.