The Press Box
Graydon Carter on ‘Vanity Fair,’ ‘Spy,’ and the Glorious Excess of the Magazine Era
Mar 24, 2025
Graydon Carter, former editor of Vanity Fair and Spy Magazine, joins the conversation with his sharp wit and insights. He shares the backstory of Spy Magazine's satirical edge and the heavy impact it had on its targets. They discuss his complex perception of Donald Trump and speculate whether Spy could thrive today. Carter also recounts landing the explosive 'Deep Throat' story and the glamorous Vanity Fair Oscar Party, while reflecting on what we've lost since the magazine era, revealing the unique era of print journalism.
52:25
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Quick takeaways
- Graydon Carter discusses the cultural impact of 'Spy Magazine' and its transition into 'Vanity Fair', highlighting the unique era of magazine journalism.
- He reflects on the shifting dynamics of celebrity within journalism, emphasizing how writers were once celebrated as stars themselves.
Deep dives
The Legacy of the Seattle Supersonics
The Seattle Supersonics, an iconic NBA team, exemplifies a deep sense of loss for the city of Seattle due to its relocation to Oklahoma City. Fans associate the team's departure with feelings of tragedy and theft, marking a significant moment in sports history and community identity. The podcast dives into this emotional connection, highlighting figures such as Sean Kemp and Gary Payton, who were not only players but also symbols of the franchise's cultural impact. The narrative explores how the team's exit affected fans, city officials, and local businesses, encapsulating the heartbreak of losing a cherished part of Seattle's identity.
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