Graydon Carter, born on July 14, 1949, in Toronto, Canada, is a distinguished journalist and editor known for his influential roles in the media industry. He co-founded the satirical magazine Spy in 1986 alongside Kurt Andersen and Tom Phillips, which gained acclaim for its sharp wit and cultural commentary.
In 1992, Carter became the editor of Vanity Fair, a position he held for 25 years. Under his leadership, the magazine became renowned for its blend of celebrity coverage and serious journalism, hosting exclusive events like the annual Oscars party. Carter’s tenure is often cited as a golden age for the publication.
After leaving Vanity Fair in 2017, Carter co-founded Air Mail, a weekly newsletter targeting cosmopolitan readers, with Alessandra Stanley in 2019. The publication offers a curated mix of cultural commentary, reporting, and lifestyle pieces.
Carter’s memoir, When the Going Was Good: An Editor’s Adventures During the Last Golden Age of Magazines, released in 2025, provides an insider’s perspective on his experiences in the magazine industry, reflecting on the glamour and challenges of his career.
Throughout his career, Carter has also ventured into film production, contributing to documentaries such as Public Speaking (2010) and His Way (2011), both aired on HBO. His work has earned him prestigious accolades, including Emmy and Peabody Awards.
In his personal life, Carter has been married three times and has five children. He divides his time between Greenwich Village in New York City and Roxbury, Connecticut, and co-owns The Waverly Inn, a renowned restaurant in the West Village.
For a more in-depth look at Graydon Carter’s life and career, you might find this interview insightful: