Barely Legal (magazine)

Barely Legal was a monthly softcore pornography magazine published by Galaxy Publishing, Inc., catering to a demographic interested in images of young women perceived to be at or just over the age of consent. The magazine's content typically featured models aged 18 to 21, often presented in a way that emphasized youthful innocence or a perceived "girl-next-door" aesthetic.

The magazine's publication history spanned the late 1990s and early 2000s. Barely Legal generated significant controversy due to concerns about the ethical implications of sexualizing young adults and the potential for it to be perceived as appealing to individuals with pedophilic interests. Critics argued that the magazine blurred the lines between consensual adult sexuality and child exploitation, potentially normalizing the sexualization of minors. Defenders often cited the models' legal ages and argued for the freedom of expression within legal boundaries. The magazine faced legal challenges and public scrutiny throughout its run, contributing to debates about censorship, free speech, and the regulation of pornography.