Thousands of women across the nation vied for the chance to become a Playmate, but only 12 were chosen for the reality competition "Who Wants to Be a Playboy Centerfold?" The two-hour prime-time special aired on Fox in 2002, bringing together aspiring Playmates in typical house reality show fashion. Photo shoots at the Playboy Mansion and a nude centerfold layout culminated in eliminations and, ultimately, a winner, whose prize was to become the Playmate of the Month. Contestants share what the show was truly like, how the experience changed them, and how being associated with Playboy fulfilled dreams and also caused heartache.

• Alexandra Dean

• Sondra Theodore
• Miki Garcia
• Cristy Thom