Founder of 'Hustler' Larry Flynt Dead At 78

Larry Flynt, the founder of Hustler magazine, died on Wednesday, according to TMZ.

For those who don't know about Flynt, he was one of the biggest -- and most controversial -- names from the adult entertainment industry. He launched the porn empire known as Hustler magazine in 1974.

Flynt dealt with numerous health issues over the years. He became paralyzed from the waist down back in 1978. The reason? Serial killer Joseph Paul Franklin shot Flynt, a murder attempt that was obviously unsuccessful.

The empire he leaves behind includes the magazine, as well as videos, Hustler TV and even a casino. All of those fall under the Larry Flynt Publications umbrella.

Flynt also had a few legal run-ins, including a battle with the late Rev. Jerry Falwell. Falwell sued Hustler over a satirical article written about him titled "Jerry Falwell talks about his first time," but after going all the way to the Supreme Court, Hustler and First Amendment speech were victorious.

According to TMZ, it took Flynt five trips to the altar to find true love. His first four marriages were busts, but he was married to his wife, Elizabeth Berrios, for over 20 years before his death on Wednesday.

Despite his controversial image, Flynt almost had a career in politics. Well, I say almost ... he attempted it a couple times. There was a short presidential run in 1984 and a campaign for governor of California back in 2003.

This was a man known for going after what he wants -- for better or for worse.

RIP, Larry.

Follow Clint Lamb on Twitter @ClintRLamb.