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Vanity Fair Shifts Focus: Less Hollywood, More Global Culture Under New Leadership

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Monday, August 18th 2025 at 17:35 GMT by The Wrap, Variety
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For decades, Vanity Fair has been synonymous with in-depth profiles and insider scoops from the world of Hollywood. However, a significant shift is underway at the iconic magazine under new editor-in-chief, Mark Guiducci. Following a period of experimentation and declining digital readership, the publication is actively scaling back its coverage of the entertainment industry, pivoting instead towards broader cultural trends and international stories. This represents a dramatic departure from the magazine’s established identity and signals a potential reckoning for celebrity journalism in an evolving media landscape.

The move, detailed by Variety, isn't entirely unexpected. While Vanity Fair has maintained its prestige through long-form features and striking photography, it hasn’t consistently translated that success into robust digital engagement. The magazine has struggled to find a sustainable model for online content, particularly in an era where celebrity news is readily available across numerous platforms – from TikTok and Instagram to dedicated entertainment websites and podcasts. The traditional “big reveal” or exclusive interview that once defined Vanity Fair’s appeal has become increasingly diluted by the constant stream of information available elsewhere.

Guiducci's vision, inherited after succeeding Graydon Carter in 2018, is centered on broadening the magazine’s scope beyond Hollywood. He aims to position Vanity Fair as a leading voice in understanding global culture, exploring topics ranging from art and fashion to politics and technology – all through the lens of insightful reporting and compelling storytelling. This includes expanding coverage of international regions, moving away from the predominantly American-centric focus that has characterized much of its previous work.

The reduction in Hollywood coverage isn't a complete abandonment; rather, it’s a strategic recalibration. While celebrity profiles will still exist, they won't be the magazine’s primary driver. The emphasis is shifting towards stories that offer deeper context and analysis, connecting entertainment to larger societal trends. For example, instead of solely focusing on an actor’s latest film, Vanity Fair might explore the cultural impact of a particular genre or examine how streaming services are reshaping the filmmaking process.

This shift has been accompanied by staff reductions within the Hollywood-focused teams, reflecting the decreased priority given to entertainment reporting. While Condé Nast, the parent company of Vanity Fair, hasn’t publicly disclosed specific numbers, sources indicate that several writers and editors specializing in celebrity news have departed or not had their contracts renewed. This has understandably caused some anxiety among those who built their careers around covering Hollywood for the magazine.

The decision to scale back on Hollywood coverage also reflects a broader trend within the media industry. The rise of social media and the fragmentation of audiences have made it increasingly challenging for traditional publications to maintain dominance in the entertainment news space. Many outlets are grappling with how to adapt to this new reality, experimenting with different formats and strategies to reach readers.

Furthermore, the changing dynamics between celebrities and the press play a significant role. The increased control that celebrities exert over their public image through social media has made it more difficult for journalists to access exclusive information or secure candid interviews. This has diminished the value proposition of traditional celebrity journalism, particularly in print publications.

Guiducci’s strategy isn't without its risks. Vanity Fair’s brand is inextricably linked to Hollywood; alienating that core audience could have negative consequences. However, he believes that broadening the magazine’s scope will ultimately attract a wider readership and create new opportunities for growth. The success of this pivot hinges on Vanity Fair's ability to deliver consistently high-quality journalism that resonates with readers beyond the confines of Hollywood.

The move also highlights the ongoing struggle within Condé Nast, which has been attempting to modernize its digital strategy while preserving the legacy brands under its umbrella. While other magazines like Vogue have found relative success in adapting to the digital age, Vanity Fair’s journey has been more complex. The current restructuring represents a significant gamble on Guiducci's vision and a bet that broadening the magazine’s cultural scope will revitalize its relevance in an increasingly competitive media landscape. Ultimately, only time will tell if this bold shift proves successful in securing Vanity Fair's place as a leading voice in global culture.