The Press Box The December Issue: Can The New Yorker Survive Another Century?
Dec 1, 2025
David Remnick, the editor of The New Yorker and a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, dives into the magazine's rich history and future. He shares insights on the recent Netflix documentary, discussing both its strengths and omissions. The conversation touches on Remnick's editorial vision, how the magazine adapts to digital media, and its identity in an ever-changing landscape. They ponder if The New Yorker can thrive for another century, reflecting on its loyal readership and challenges amid the modern media environment.
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Episode notes
Documentary Shows Vibe Over Full History
- The Netflix documentary chose atmosphere and human moments over exhaustive history, showing The New Yorker's vibe more than its full arc.
- That lightness made the magazine feel inviting and emphasized daily editorial joy rather than institutional weight.
Remnick's Cartoon Basket Ritual
- The film gives granular glimpses of how the magazine is made, from on-the-street profiles to cartoon selection meetings.
- Remnick personally reviews cartoons in a yes/no/maybe basket, echoing Harold Ross's Tuesday meetings.
Institutional Stewardship Trumps Individual Vision
- The New Yorker's strength is massive human capital and institutional rituals that shape taste across decades.
- Remnick functions more as steward than auteur, preserving inherited editorial practices.
