Jezebel, previously under the ownership of G/O Media, ceased its operations after a 16-year run. (Peter Morgan / Associated Press)
Amid the closure notice, feminist platform Jezebel is set for a revival, defying the prior shutdown plans.
Earlier this month, G/O Media, the former parent company, declared the closure of Jezebel due to financial limitations, laying off its staff. Despite significant interest from 24 potential buyers, G/O Media's CEO, Jim Spanfeller, expressed the company's failure to secure a buyer for the publication. However, recent developments suggest otherwise.
Paste Magazine revealed on Wednesday that it is acquiring the cherished women-centric publication and preparing to reintroduce it soon.
In a statement published on its platform, Paste Magazine expressed enthusiasm for acquiring Jezebel, renowned for its audacious and empowering content for women. The magazine swiftly acted upon learning about Jezebel's shutdown, taking decisive steps to rescue it.
According to Jackson, the founder and editor-in-chief of Paste, the acquisition was a swift, all-cash transaction, intending to revive Jezebel's publication as early as this week. He assured that former Jezebel staffers would be given priority during the rehiring process.
"Our core mission has always been to offer compelling and thought-provoking content that resonates with a diverse audience," stated Josh Jackson in Paste's announcement. "Jezebel's distinct voice and dedication to storytelling align perfectly with our media portfolio."
Established in 2007 by Gawker Media, Jezebel gained acclaim for its coverage of pressing cultural issues impacting women, spanning politics, entertainment, beauty, fashion, women's health, and prominent women figures. After becoming part of the G/O Media portfolio in 2019, its shutdown came as a surprise.
Paste Magazine emphasized its commitment to maintaining Jezebel's editorial autonomy and preserving its unique voice upon its relaunch, aiming to enrich cultural perspectives for its audience.
In addition to Jezebel, Paste Magazine also disclosed its acquisition of the political site Splinter, previously shuttered by G/O Media in 2019. Plans are underway to revive Splinter in time for comprehensive coverage of the 2024 presidential election.
