Ellen Stratton

Ellen Stratton Bio

June 9, 1939 - April 26, 2016 / Gemini / Age 76

Ellen Stratton was an American-born Playboy model, glamour model, and actress. She was born under the sign of Gemini on June 9, 1939 in Marietta, Mississippi, United States. Her birth name is Bonnie La Rue Nix. She is also known in the industry as Bonnie La Rue Miller or Bonnie Miller.

Ellen Stratton was Playboy Playmate of the Month for December 1959 and Playmate of the Year 1960. She was awarded the prestigious title of Playboy Playmate at the age of 20. Her measurements are 35-20-35. Ellen Stratton had natural breasts, sparkling blue eyes, and luminous blond hair.

Growing up in the rural South, she developed a grounded and warm personality that would later resonate with fans of Playboy. Her journey to fame began when she moved to California in her late teens to work as a secretary while pursuing better opportunities.

Ellen Stratton was discovered by Playboy scouts while attending a Playboy party in Los Angeles. Her centerfold, photographed by William Graham, captured a classic combination of elegance, innocence, and sensuality that epitomized the magazine's vision during its formative years.

In 1960, Ellen made history when she was named Playboy's first-ever Playmate of the Year. She received a special honor, including a fur coat, as part of her title. Her groundbreaking role set the precedent for future Playmates of the Year and elevated her status as a trailblazer in the modeling world.

Following her time with Playboy, Ellen pursued acting and appeared in small roles in television and film. However, she eventually chose to step away from the entertainment industry to focus on her personal life.

Ellen married and devoted herself to raising a family, enjoying a quieter lifestyle away from the public eye. Despite her departure from the limelight, her contributions to Playboy's history remain a celebrated part of its legacy.

Today, Ellen Stratton's story serves as a reminder of a groundbreaking era in glamour and publishing, with her contributions firmly etched in the legacy of Playboy.