New York Magazine: A History of Urban Culture and Journalism
Since its inception, New York magazine has served as a definitive chronicle of the city's social, political, and cultural landscape. From its beginnings as a newspaper supplement to its evolution into a digital-first media powerhouse, the publication has consistently blended high-brow intellectualism with low-brow fascination, capturing the essence of Manhattan and beyond.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1963 as a supplement to the New York Herald Tribune; relaunched as a standalone weekly in 1968.
- Founding Figures: Clay Felker and Milton Glaser were instrumental in its standalone success.
- Digital Expansion: Launched influential verticals including Vulture, The Cut, and Intelligencer.
- Major Ownerships: Has been owned by Rupert Murdoch, K-III Communications, Bruce Wasserstein, and Vox Media.
- Acquisition: Acquired by Lupa Systems in 2026 for over $300 million.
The Formative Years: 1960s and 1970s
New York began in 1963 as a Sunday-magazine supplement for the New York Herald Tribune. Under the leadership of editors Sheldon Zalaznick and later Clay Felker, it became a showcase for legendary writers like Tom Wolfe and Jimmy Breslin. After the Tribune folded in 1966, Felker and partner Milton Glaser purchased the nameplate and launched the standalone glossy weekly on April 8, 1968.
The magazine quickly established a distinct voice, employing a diverse team of critics and reporters. Notable contributors included Gloria Steinem, who wrote a politics column, and Gael Greene, whose restaurant reviews were famous for their baroque style. The publication operated out of the old Tammany Hall clubhouse, focusing on the intersection of status, class, and creativity.
During the 1970s, the magazine expanded its scope. Tom Wolfe's 1970 piece "Radical Chic: That Party at Lenny's" epitomized the magazine's interest in social collisions. Other milestones included a preview of Ms. magazine and a cover story on the Beale household that inspired the documentary Grey Gardens. In 1976, the magazine underwent a major shift when Rupert Murdoch acquired it in a hostile takeover, leading to the departure of Felker and Glaser.
Evolution Through the 1980s and 1990s
Under Rupert Murdoch and editor Edward Kosner in the 1980s, the magazine shifted toward a newsmagazine style. It integrated the listings of Cue magazine and focused on the glitzy consumerism of the era, featuring figures like Donald Trump. It was during this period, in 1985, that the magazine coined the term "the Brat Pack."
The 1990s saw a transition in ownership to K-III Communications. Editor Kurt Andersen brought a younger, faster-paced tone to the publication in the mid-90s, hiring writers such as Jim Cramer. Later, under Caroline Miller, the magazine focused on emerging voices and the media criticism of Michael Wolff.
| Era | Owner/Parent Company | Key Editorial Shift |
|---|---|---|
| 1963–1966 | New York Herald Tribune | Newspaper supplement |
| 1968–1976 | Felker & Glaser (Independent) | Standalone glossy weekly |
| 1976–1991 | Rupert Murdoch | Newsmagazine and service features |
| 1991–2003 | K-III Communications | Youth-oriented and fast-paced tone |
| 2003–2019 | Bruce Wasserstein Trust | Digital transformation and specialized verticals |
| 2019–2026 | Vox Media | Integration with digital networks |
| 2026–Present | Lupa Systems | Strategic media and tech holding |
The Digital Pivot and Modern Era
The 2000s marked a radical transformation. After being purchased by Bruce Wasserstein for $55 million in 2003, the magazine was relaunched under editor Adam Moss, introducing "The Strategist" and "The Culture Pages." The publication began shifting resources toward digital-only platforms to reach a global audience.
This digital expansion led to the creation of several influential sites: Vulture (culture), The Cut (fashion and women's interest), and Intelligencer (politics). By 2010, digital advertising accounted for one-third of the company's revenue, signaling a shift from a print magazine with a website to a digital enterprise with a print attachment.
In the 2010s, the magazine continued to win accolades, including a National Magazine Award for its "Encyclopedia of 9/11" and acclaim for its iconic Hurricane Sandy cover. The print edition moved to a biweekly schedule in 2014 to better align with digital growth. In 2019, the parent company New York Media LLC was acquired by Vox Media.
Entering the 2020s, the brand expanded its intellectual property into television and film, with stories adapted into hits like Hustlers, Inventing Anna, and The Watcher. It also grew its podcast network and digital newsletter offerings. In 2026, James Murdoch's Lupa Systems acquired New York Magazine and the Vox Media Podcast Network for over $300 million.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded New York magazine?
While it began as a supplement to the New York Herald Tribune, it was reincarnated as a standalone glossy weekly in 1968 by Clay Felker and Milton Glaser.
What are the digital verticals associated with New York magazine?
The magazine launched several specialized sites, including Vulture for culture, The Cut for fashion and women's interests, and Intelligencer for politics.
Which famous term was coined by the magazine?
The magazine coined the term "the Brat Pack" in a 1985 cover story.
How did the magazine adapt to the decline of print?
The publication shifted resources toward digital-only sites, reduced its print frequency to biweekly in 2014, and expanded into podcasts and newsletters.
Who currently owns New York magazine?
As of 2026, the magazine is owned by Lupa Systems, a media and tech holding company led by James Murdoch.