Graydon Carter is a Canadian-born American journalist renowned for his influential role in the publishing industry. Born on July 14, 1949, in Toronto, Canada, Carter co-founded the satirical magazine Spy in 1986 alongside Kurt Andersen and Tom Phillips. The magazine gained acclaim for its sharp wit and commentary on media and culture.
In 1992, Carter became the editor of Vanity Fair, where he served until 2017. Under his leadership, the magazine achieved significant success, blending celebrity coverage with serious journalism. Carter’s tenure was marked by high-profile stories and the establishment of the magazine’s iconic Oscars party. He received numerous accolades, including 14 National Magazine Awards and induction into the Magazine Editors’ Hall of Fame.
After leaving Vanity Fair, Carter co-founded Air Mail, a weekly newsletter, in 2019 with Alessandra Stanley. The publication caters to a global audience with interests in culture, politics, and style.
In March 2025, Carter released his memoir, When the Going Was Good, reflecting on his experiences during the “golden age” of magazines. The book provides insights into his career, the media landscape, and interactions with notable figures. Carter discusses his initial challenges at Vanity Fair, the evolution of its Oscars party, and anecdotes involving celebrities like Princess Diana and Meghan Markle.
Carter’s career has significantly influenced American journalism, blending celebrity culture with investigative reporting and leaving a lasting impact on the media industry.