‘I am heartbroken’: Hugh Hefner’s wife Crystal pays tribute to Playboy founder

His third wife described him as an ‘American hero’

(Getty)

Hugh Hefner’s widow, Crystal, has finally spoken of her heartbreak as she broke her silence following her husband's death aged 91.

His third wife of five years, model Crystal Hefner, admits that she has struggled since his passing is still in disbelief over the loss of her husband.

"I haven’t been able to bring myself to write most people back to thank them for their condolences. I am heartbroken. I am still in disbelief," she told People.

The publishing pioneer was buried at the cemetery near UCLA where both Marilyn Monroe and Farrah Fawcett rest.

The 31-year-old model continued to pay tribute to her late husband describing him as an “American hero. A pioneer. A kind and humble soul.”

She said she "felt how much he loved" her and that she "loved him so much" adding: "I am so grateful. He gave me life."

Picture: (Getty Images for Playboy)

The model praised the late publishing tycoon for giving her direction and teaching her kindess.

She said she will feel "eternally grateful" to have been by his side, holding his hand and telling him how much she loved him.

“He made me feel loved every single day. He was a beacon to the world, a force unlike anything else. There never has and never will be another Hugh M. Hefner.'

She ended by saying, “I join the world in mourning. I thank you for all of your condolences.”

“To the people leaving sentiments at the front gate, we see you and grieve with you.”

The late Playboy editor has reportedly left Crystal with $5m (£3.7m), as well as the deeds to a 5,900 square foot property in Hollywood Hills as part of a pre-nup signed before the pair got hitched in 2012.

Hefner was previously married to college sweetheart Millie Willaims from 1949-59, followed by Playboy model Kimberley Conrad in 1989.