Sunny Leone, Penthouse Pet of the Month, March 2001 and Pet of the Year 2003

Sunny Leone Bio Pet of The Year 2003

May 31, 1981 / Gemini / Age 44

Sunny Leone is a Canadian-born Penthouse model, nude model, prominent porn star, producer and adult movie director, and Bollywood actress, born Karenjit Kaur Vohra on May 31, 1981 in Sarnia, Canada. Throughout her modeling career, she has also appeared under the names Karen Malhotra, each marking a distinct chapter in her evolving on-camera persona.

Sunny Leone was crowned Penthouse Pet of the Month in March 2001 before rising to the coveted title of Pet of the Year 2003, stepping into the spotlight at just 19 years old. With her statuesque 34-24-37 figure, soulful hazel eyes, rich brown hair, and enhanced breasts, Sunny balances youthful curiosity with a growing confidence, creating an allure that feels both innocent and daring.

Sunny Leone stands as one of the most globally transformative figures ever associated with Penthouse. With striking looks, natural poise, and uncommon adaptability, Sunny bridged continents, cultures, and industries in a way few models before or after her achieved.

Sunny grew up between Canada and the United States, raised primarily in California. Athletic and independent from an early age, she carried a confidence that translated naturally to the camera. After early work outside entertainment and time spent studying nursing, her modeling career accelerated quickly, leading to her Penthouse debut — where publisher Bob Guccione helped shape the name that would soon become internationally recognized.

Her March 2001 pictorial marked the beginning of a defining Penthouse era. Readers responded immediately, and by 2003 she was named Pet of the Year, starring in high-profile Penthouse productions alongside other top Pets. The title confirmed her status not only as a fan favorite, but as a central figure in Penthouse’s early-2000s identity.

Sunny’s career would soon expand far beyond the magazine. After becoming a leading contract star with Vivid Entertainment, she later executed one of the most remarkable pivots in modern pop culture — transitioning into Indian mainstream entertainment. Beginning with television appearances and reality shows, she made her Bollywood debut in Jism 2, followed by a series of commercially successful films that redefined her public image for a global audience.

In parallel, Sunny built a reputation as a savvy entrepreneur, public speaker, and activist. She has supported major charitable initiatives, including cancer research and animal welfare, and in 2016 was named to BBC’s list of 100 Women — a rare distinction reflecting influence well beyond entertainment.

Sunny Leone remains a singular Penthouse figure: a woman who began as a centerfold icon and evolved into an international star, business leader, and cultural crossover — proving that reinvention, when guided by discipline and intelligence, can transcend every boundary.