Ex-Vanity Fair Editor Graydon Carter Rips Oscars and Reveals Insights on Tom Cruise, Princess Diana, and Meghan Markle: ‘Lost Touch with Reality’

Graydon Carter had a challenging start as the editor of Vanity Fair. When he stepped into the role in July 1992, the atmosphere felt toxic. He recalls how employees loyal to the previous editor were hostile, making the early days particularly tough. In his new memoir, When the Going was Good, Carter shares these struggles and more.

Despite his rocky beginning, Carter decided to host a significant event: the Vanity Fair Oscars party. Inspired by the late Hollywood agent Swifty Lazar, he thought this party could fill a void left after Lazar’s passing in December 1993. Reflecting on his bold move, he admits, "I had not thrown big parties before."

The first party in 1994 was small, catering to about 300 people. Surprisingly, it turned into a hot ticket. Carter quickly realized that Hollywood wasn’t about dancing; it was more about making connections that could bolster careers.

The guest list became one of the most coveted. Sara Marks, the editor handling invites, faced intense pressure, while some attendees even offered bribes to secure a spot. One Saudi prince allegedly offered between $150,000 and $250,000 to get in.

To manage the influx, they created a "speed lane" for anyone carrying an Oscar. However, there were still moments of humor, like when a man showed up with a pig, claiming it was the star of Babe.

One notable ban from the party was Harvey Weinstein, who cultivated a reputation for being rude and demanding. Carter found this behavior unacceptable and barred him from future events, well before the allegations against Weinstein surfaced.

Over the years, Carter has witnessed many memorable moments at these parties. One year, Courtney Love made a scene by confronting Marks in front of cameras, calling her derogatory names when denied entry. Carter admits it was entertaining yet chaotic.

Looking back, he suggests he might change course if given the chance today. “I’d probably do an Emmys party,” he mused, highlighting shifts in how entertainment is consumed; television now takes center stage over film for many viewers.

Reflecting on his long tenure at Vanity Fair, Carter describes it as a mix of hard work and luxury. Travelling on private jets and staying in five-star hotels came with the job. He contends the opulence helped elevate the magazine’s status in a competitive market.

His relationships with other powerful figures, like Anna Wintour, showcased the intricate dynamics in the publishing world. He sometimes found her interactions with him to be warm and other times cold, illustrating the complexities of their professional rapport.

Carter also delves into memorable covers he worked on, including featuring Meghan Markle before she married Prince Harry. He humorously admits that he had no idea who she was at the time. He recalled that during the interview, Markle wanted to steer the discussion away from the royal family and instead focus on her charitable work.

Carter’s reflections on Princess Diana reveal the depth of their connection. He co-hosted the Oscars party where Diana wore her iconic "revenge dress." He believes Diana would be saddened by Harry’s estrangement from the royal family, understanding the pain of family rifts from his experience.

In his memoir, Carter shares lessons learned over the years. He advises readers to remain open to new opportunities and plan their exits wisely. Even as he moves on from the Oscars, his passion for storytelling remains. “Put yourself in the movie,” he encourages. “Ask yourself: Are you the hero, the villain, or somewhere in between?”

Carter’s journey from a rocky start to becoming a significant figure in the entertainment industry serves as an inspiring tale of resilience and creativity. For more insights into the dynamics of celebrity culture, you can check out resources like The New York Times.

Source link

Celebrity News,anna wintour,courtney love,graydon carter,meghan markle,oscars,princess diana,tom cruise,vanity fair,vanity fair party