Hey friends! As I prepare to pass the baton at Vanity Fair, I’m filled with both nostalgia and excitement. It feels surreal to say goodbye to a place that has been my home for so many years. But before I leave, I want to share some of my favorite memories, the incredible people I’ve met, and the stories that have shaped not only the magazine but also my life as a journalist. So grab a coffee ☕️ and let’s dive in!
Pedro Pascal: The Perfect Final Cover Star
Okay, but can we talk about the absolute legend, Pedro Pascal? He’s been on my radar for ages, but when he graced the cover of my last issue, it felt like a full-circle moment. I mean, who can forget that iconic episode of Buffy the Vampire Slayer? And let’s not overlook that hilarious moment at the Met Gala where he shared a swig from his I ❤️ NY flask. This is giving me serious vibes! His bold fashion choice of formal shorts? 🔥 Honestly, he’s the quintessential Gen X icon, and it’s been a pleasure to highlight such a unique talent.
A Wild Ride Through Three Decades
Reflecting on my journey, I can’t help but smile at all the wild experiences I’ve had since starting my journalism career in 1995 at The Moscow Times. It’s been a whirlwind, right? Over the years at Vanity Fair, we’ve tackled everything from a global pandemic to Hollywood strikes, social justice movements, and even the chaos of the Capitol insurrection. Each challenge has pushed us to dig deeper and discover stories that resonate with our readers. Who else thinks that journalism isn’t just a profession, but a calling? 📣
During my time, I aimed to ensure that Vanity Fair remained a beacon of cultural relevance. We celebrated the zeitgeist—highlighting emerging talents, new ideas, and fresh perspectives. The stories we chose weren’t just headlines; they were reflections of the times we live in. Our powerful cover stars and immersive features have not only defined our magazine but also the cultural landscape.
A Heartfelt Thank You to My Incredible Team
Now, let’s talk about the real magic behind the scenes. I’ve had the immense privilege of working with an extraordinary team—writers, editors, photographers, and beyond. This vibrant community brought creativity, ambition, and a healthy dose of humor to our Slack chats. Honestly, they’ve made every day a joy to come to work! 💖
One of my favorite memories was reading a note from a reader who commented on one of our summer issues: “It is an escape but isn’t oblivious. It finds thrilling narratives hidden underneath the headlines.” That’s what we aimed for, right? To connect with readers on a deeper level and explore the human stories that often get overlooked.
As I step back and rejoin the ranks of our dedicated readers, I can’t help but feel grateful. I wish Mark Guiducci, my successor, all the best as he takes on this exciting challenge. And to all of you, I hope your encounters with Vanity Fair have been as meaningful as mine. Let’s keep the conversation going—what stories have resonated with you the most? Drop your thoughts below! 👇
