The Gray Area with Sean Illing A Watchmen writer on race, TV, and tech giants
Feb 25, 2021
Cord Jefferson, an Emmy Award-winning writer known for his work on shows like Watchmen and Succession, shares insights on transitioning from journalism to television. He discusses the need for diversity in writers' rooms and the influence of major tech companies on storytelling. Jefferson emphasizes the importance of authentic narratives, especially in representing marginalized voices. They also explore the unique blend of humor and serious themes in shows like The Good Lord Bird and the value of taking risks in a writer's career.
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Gawker's West Coast Editor
- Cord Jefferson lived in Los Angeles while working as the West Coast Editor for Gawker.
- His title wasn't reflective of his duties; he mostly blogged.
Joining Gawker
- Cord Jefferson was drawn to Gawker's freedom and pirate ship-like atmosphere after Good magazine folded.
- He appreciated the ability to write without the strict rules and ethics of traditional journalism.
Mad Men Critique
- Cord Jefferson's first Gawker piece critiqued Mad Men's portrayal of flawed men as cool.
- He questioned the valorization of characters like Don Draper, given their negative traits.