Jezebel’s Renaissance: How Paste Magazine is Reshaping the Future of Women’s Digital Media
A New Chapter for Women’s Media
Jezebel, the US-based website known for its news and cultural commentary geared towards women, was originally launched in 2007 by Gawker Media as a feminist counterpoint to traditional women’s magazines.
After facing closure on November 9, 2023, when parent company G/O Media laid off its staff, the publication found new life through an acquisition by Paste in an all-cash deal, with the website officially relaunching on December 11, 2023.
Editorial Independence and Vision
Under Paste’s ownership, the publication aims to amplify Jezebel’s impact with a shared focus on great writing, while maintaining its editorial independence. The site has demonstrated strong readership, averaging more than three million visitors a month this year.
The revival began with a soft launch featuring content from Paste’s writers, followed by plans to hire an editor-in-chief and additional staff members for the site.
Current Coverage and Impact
The publication continues to serve as a vital community for readers who often don’t see their viewpoints represented elsewhere, taking an unflinching look at issues like sexism in the workplace, abortion rights, and the #MeToo movement.
The new management plans to make Jezebel profitable by focusing on its distinctive content while reducing expenses through remote work arrangements. As stated by Jackson, ‘The vast majority of our overhead is editorial, and great editorial pays for itself.’
Future Prospects
Paste Magazine has initiated an immediate search for a new editor-in-chief, with former Jezebel staffers being given priority consideration for positions. Additionally, the company has acquired the politics site Splinter, with plans to relaunch it in time to cover the 2024 presidential election.
Jezebel’s influence has been significant in the digital media landscape, having inspired other women-focused websites including Slate magazine’s Double X, xoJane, The Hairpin, and The Frisky. Under its new ownership, the publication appears poised to continue its legacy of provocative and important journalism.
