Honcho Magazine

Join us on a nostalgic journey with Honcho, the groundbreaking vintage gay magazine. This incredible publication, created by George Mavety in the 1970s, revolutionized the portrayal of gay culture in the media. Inspired by Playboy, Mavety’s vision for Honcho was to create a magazine that would elevate the representation of gay eroticism and culture.

NOTE: This article was updated on January 25th, 2024

He succeeded in creating a powerhouse publication that stayed at the forefront of the LGBT community until its end in 2004. Even 15 years after Mavety’s passing, Honcho remains an inspiration to those advocating for increased representation of the LGBT community. Let’s admire and remember Mavety’s trailblazing contribution to the great awakening of LGBT culture in the 70s and 80s.

Honcho Magazine 1970s – 1980s

Discover the Revolutionary Spirit of Honcho Magazine: A Reflection of the Reagan Era

Step back to September 1984, just before the Los Angeles Olympic Games started with a speech by then-President Ronald Reagan. But even as the world turned its attention to the games, the “gay cancer” epidemic was spreading fast. Yet, in the face of adversity, Honcho Magazine paved the way for gay liberation.

Inside the pages of this iconic monthly, you’ll be treated to more than just artistic displays of male nudes and erotic fiction. Honcho Magazine also delved into reviews of books, movies, and music of interest to the gay community. It kept readers up-to-date on social, political, and cultural events influencing the movement.

Ready to feel the sizzle and discover the revolutionary spirit of one of the most influential magazines of its time? Check out these stunning vintage covers and see how far the fight for LGBTQ+ rights has come.

Honcho Documentary

Check out this documentary featuring some interviews with Honcho Magazine’s creators.

1. HONCHO
   Honcho was a gay men’s pornographic magazine that was published from 1978 to 2009. It was known for its explicit photography and featured male models in various states of undress. The magazine also included articles on gay culture, politics, and health. Many consider Honcho to be one of the pioneers in the gay porn industry, and it remains a famous collector’s item among fans.
   
2. PLAYGIRL
   Playgirl is a monthly magazine aimed at women but also has a significant following among gay men. It features nude or partially nude male models, often including well-known celebrities. While it started as a magazine for heterosexual women, Playgirl has since expanded to include more diverse representations of masculinity and sexuality.
   
3. DRUMMER
   Drummer was a gay men’s leather lifestyle magazine published from 1975 to 1999. It featured explicit photography and articles on BDSM (bondage, discipline, sadism, and masochism), culture, and practices. The magazine was known for its edgy content and played an essential role in developing the leather subculture within the LGBTQ+ community.
   
4. MANDATE
   Mandate was a monthly gay men’s pornographic magazine that was published from 1975 to 2009. It featured explicit photography and articles on various aspects of gay culture, such as fashion, relationships, and travel. The magazine also included interviews with famous figures within the LGBTQ+ community.
   
5. INCHES
   Inches is a bi-monthly gay men’s pornographic magazine that has been in publication since 1986. It features explicit photography and articles on topics such as sex tips, health advice, and interviews with adult film stars. The magazine is known for its diverse representation of body types and sexualities within the gay community.

Bonus Covers

RELATED LINKS

Check out this fantastic timeline of LGBTQ magazines from1897 – 2008.