Paper Magazine: A History of Cultural Influence and Evolution
Since its inception, Paper has served as a vibrant chronicle of pop culture, fashion, and art. What began as a modest independent publication has evolved through several ownership changes and format shifts, mirroring the broader transformation of the media industry from print-centric to digital-first engagement.
The Founding and Early Years
Paper was established in 1984 by Kim Hastreiter and David Hershkovits, both of whom previously served as editors at the SoHo Weekly News. The venture was launched with the support of Richard Weigand and Lucy Sisman. In its earliest iteration, the publication was a monthly print magazine produced as a black-and-white, 16-page fold-out.
Over the decades, the magazine transitioned from its fold-out roots into a quarterly print and digital publication, gaining a reputation for featuring some of the most influential figures in music and entertainment. Its cover models have included global icons such as Prince, Jennifer Lopez, Kim Kardashian, Katy Perry, Miley Cyrus, CL, Kacey Musgraves, and BTS.
Ownership Shifts and Digital Transformation
In 2017, the founders sold the company to ENTtech Media Group, an entertainment technology firm. This group was founded by Drew Elliott, then the Chief Creative Officer of Paper, and Tom Florio, a former executive at Advanstar and Condé Nast. Drew Elliott eventually departed the company in October 2019 to take on the role of Global Creative Director at MAC Cosmetics.
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 brought significant challenges to the publishing world. Paper suspended its print production, with the Spring 2020 issue featuring Lady Gaga serving as the final physical edition. Tom Florio noted that the shift was partly a response to the way Gen Z and younger audiences engaged with the brand—primarily through social and digital channels. While print ceased, the magazine's digital content remained active.
Crisis and Resurgence
The post-pandemic era saw a decline in advertising revenues, leading to a critical turning point in April 2023. The magazine's staff was laid off, and editorial operations were halted. Although the company remained legally active, it spent several months seeking a viable path forward.
A new chapter began in June 2023 when Paper was acquired by Brian Calle & Street Media. By September 2023, operations resumed, with Justin Moran—who had previously served as Digital Director and became editor-in-chief in July 2022—returning to lead the publication as editor-in-chief.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1984 by Kim Hastreiter and David Hershkovits.
- Original Format: 16-page black and white monthly fold-out.
- Major Ownerships: Founded by Hastreiter/Hershkovits; sold to ENTtech Media Group (2017); acquired by Brian Calle & Street Media (2023).
- Print Status: Suspended in 2020 following the Spring edition featuring Lady Gaga.
- Current Leadership: Justin Moran serves as editor-in-chief.
Paper Magazine Overview
| Year | Event | Key Figure/Entity |
|---|---|---|
| 1984 | Foundation of Paper | Kim Hastreiter & David Hershkovits |
| 2017 | Acquisition by ENTtech | Tom Florio & Drew Elliott |
| 2020 | Print Production Suspended | ENTtech Media Group |
| 2022 | New Editor-in-Chief | Justin Moran |
| 2023 | Acquisition & Resumption | Brian Calle & Street Media |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded Paper magazine?
Paper was founded in 1984 by former SoHo Weekly News editors Kim Hastreiter and David Hershkovits, with assistance from Richard Weigand and Lucy Sisman.
Is Paper magazine still printed?
Print production was suspended in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. The final physical issue was the Spring 2020 edition featuring Lady Gaga.
Who currently owns Paper magazine?
As of June 2023, the publication was acquired by Brian Calle & Street Media.
Who is the current editor-in-chief?
Justin Moran is the editor-in-chief, having first stepped into the role in July 2022 and returning after the 2023 acquisition.
Why did Paper cease editorial operations in early 2023?
The magazine faced a reduction in advertising revenues following the pandemic, which led to staff layoffs and a temporary halt in editorial operations in April 2023.