It was a sunny morning in Manhattan when Sarah, a PR executive for a rising Hollywood star, got a phone call that would change her day. “Have you seen Page Six today?” her assistant nervously asked. Heart racing, Sarah pulled up the New York Post on her phone. There it was—her client’s name splashed across the infamous gossip column, the latest “scoop” about a rumoured affair. With just a few paragraphs, Page Six had turned the story into front-page buzz, forcing Sarah to immediately jump into damage control mode.
For decades, Page Six has been the New York Post’s most notorious and influential section. Its blend of insider scoops, tabloid gossip, and unflinching rumours has shaped the way we think about celebrities, politics, and power. But how did this single column come to dominate American gossip journalism? What are the secrets behind its continued success? And why has it remained such an iconic part of the media landscape?
In this article, we’ll explore the history, controversies, and influence of Page Six, breaking down why this daily column has become both loved and feared by the rich and famous.
The History of Page Six: From Humble Beginnings to Cultural Icon
Page Six was launched in 1977 as part of the New York Post, which at the time was already a well-established tabloid catering to New York City’s gossip-hungry readers. Founded by James Brady, the column was initially envisioned as a local gossip page, sharing juicy details about New York’s socialites, celebrities, and influencers.
Over the years, Page Six has evolved into one of the most recognized gossip columns in the world, often breaking stories that later make national headlines. It is known for covering everything from Hollywood breakups and affairs to Wall Street scandals and political intrigue. More than just a gossip page, Page Six has become a powerful media entity, capable of shaping public perceptions of celebrities and public figures alike.
Key Stats:
- Founded: 1977 by James Brady.
- Part of: The New York Post (owned by News Corp, part of Rupert Murdoch’s media empire).
- Daily readership: The New York Post averages 4.1 million unique visitors per day across its digital platforms as of 2023 (according to Comscore), with a significant portion attributed to Page Six’s popularity.
- Social media presence: Page Six has more than 1.3 million Twitter followers and 850,000 Instagram followers as of 2024, giving it an expansive reach across multiple platforms.
The Format: What Makes Page Six Tick?
Page Six’s signature format is short, snappy, and to the point. Each gossip tidbit is typically no longer than a few paragraphs, making it easily digestible for readers. The brevity and immediacy of the column have contributed to its success, particularly in an era of fast-paced media consumption. Unlike long-form investigative journalism, Page Six is about quick hits, scoops, and rumours that hook readers with sensational headlines.
The column thrives on anonymous sources—whether insiders, partygoers, or celebrities themselves. This approach has allowed Page Six to stay ahead of many other publications in the breaking of scandalous stories. However, the reliance on unnamed sources has also led to criticism and controversies over the years.
The Influence of Page Six on Celebrity Culture
Page Six occupies a unique space in the world of celebrity gossip. Unlike other tabloids that are often dismissed as lowbrow entertainment, Page Six enjoys a certain level of legitimacy. As part of the New York Post, one of the oldest and most widely circulated newspapers in the U.S., it has managed to maintain a reputation for being a credible source—despite its focus on scandal and gossip.
In many ways, Page Six has helped create the modern notion of celebrity culture. Before the rise of digital media and social platforms like Instagram and Twitter, the column was one of the main avenues through which the public got an inside look at the lives of the rich and famous. The stories it broke were often pivotal moments in the careers of celebrities—whether they liked it or not.
For example, in 2005, Page Six was one of the first outlets to report on the relationship between Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, a story that captured global attention and forever altered the media’s coverage of celebrity relationships.
By making gossip accessible to the everyday reader and giving us insight into the lives of public figures, Page Six has played an undeniable role in the rise of celebrity culture—where stars are scrutinized, praised, and criticized daily.
Celebrity Scandals and Political Bombshells: Page Six’s Most Notorious Stories
Page Six has been home to some of the most explosive stories in celebrity and political history. It’s known for taking risks that other outlets might shy away from, and its stories often leave a lasting impact.
Here are a few of the most infamous scoops:
- Donald Trump’s Affairs: Long before Donald Trump was in politics, he was a staple of Page Six’s gossip coverage. The column frequently covered his social life, including his infamous affairs and divorces. During his presidency, Page Six continued to cover his scandals, blending celebrity gossip with political intrigue.
- Lindsay Lohan’s Legal Woes: Throughout the mid-2000s, Page Six provided a near-daily update on the downward spiral of Lindsay Lohan, covering her arrests, rehab stints, and public feuds. It helped establish Lohan as a symbol of the troubled young starlet—a trope that persists today.
- Harvey Weinstein Scandal: Though Page Six didn’t break the Harvey Weinstein sexual harassment story (which was exposed by investigative journalists at The New York Times and The New Yorker in 2017), the column had reported on Weinstein’s volatile personality and aggressive behaviour years before. Page Six frequently hinted at Weinstein’s bullying tactics within Hollywood, planting the seeds for a larger public scandal.
The Role of Digital Media: Page Six in the Age of Instagram and TikTok
While the Page Six column originated in print, it has successfully transitioned into the digital age. The rise of social media and digital news platforms has reshaped how gossip is consumed, and Page Six has adapted to these trends. Its website is one of the most visited sections of the New York Post‘s digital offerings, and its social media presence continues to grow.
As of 2024, Page Six boasts over 1.3 million Twitter followers and 850,000 Instagram followers, making it a significant player in the digital gossip world. Its ability to break news in real-time on social media platforms allows it to stay competitive with newer outlets like TMZ or Deuxmoi, which have built followings largely based on Instagram and other digital platforms.
Despite the rise of these competitors, Page Six’s legacy and credibility within both celebrity and media circles keep it at the top of the gossip game.
Criticism and Controversies
While Page Six has a storied history and undeniable influence, it has not been without its critics. The reliance on anonymous sources has often led to accusations of inaccuracy or sensationalism. Some public figures have even sued the column for defamation, though many of these cases are settled out of court or dismissed.
One notable incident occurred in 2006 when Jared Paul Stern, a Page Six contributor, was accused of attempting to extort billionaire Ron Burkle in exchange for favourable coverage. The scandal led to a media frenzy, and although Stern was never formally charged, the incident cast a shadow over Page Six’s credibility for some time.
The Future of Gossip Journalism: Where Does Page Six Go From Here?
Despite the rise of digital gossip platforms, Page Six continues to hold its own in the competitive landscape of celebrity journalism. Its ability to adapt to new media formats and its strong reputation ensures that it will remain a go-to source for both gossip enthusiasts and casual readers alike.
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