PEOPLE Magazine is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a star-studded lineup of cover stars that includes Jennifer Aniston, Drew Barrymore, Viola Davis, Michael J. Fox, Dwayne Johnson, Nicole Kidman, John Legend, Matthew McConaghey, Serena Williams, Oprah Winfrey, and Reese Witherspoon. These iconic figures, with a combined 14 primetime Emmys, 16 Golden Globes, five Oscars, four Tonys, and 14 Grammys, have graced the covers of PEOPLE over the years and have left a lasting impact on pop culture.
Since its inception in 1974, PEOPLE has been a beacon of storytelling, offering readers an intimate look into the lives of both icons and everyday heroes. The 50th anniversary issue is a celebration of those who have shaped the culture and will continue to do so for years to come. The issue includes a full digital version and an exclusive motion cover.
The cover stars, along with the next generation of power players featured in the 50th anniversary issue, have already made a name for themselves in Hollywood and are poised to take over the industry. This group includes Zendaya, Timothee Chalamet, Lulu Wang, Taylor Swift, Renee Rapp, Yara Shahidi, Jenna Ortega, Olivia Rodrigo, Lil Nas X, Sadie Sink, Amanda Gorman, Jeremy Allen White, Austin Butler, and Alex Cooper.
PEOPLE Magazine has a rich history of impactful storytelling, from groundbreaking exclusives to heartfelt human-interest stories. The magazine has captured cultural moments and has provided readers with a unique blend of entertainment, inspiration, and insight. The 50th anniversary issue is a testament to the magazine’s legacy and its continued relevance in the ever-changing media landscape.
To commemorate the anniversary, PEOPLE is working with Fotografiska NY on a photo exhibition featuring original covers and photographs from the magazine. The exhibition, “PEOPLE: Celebrating 50 Years,” will open on May 9, 2024, showcasing the world’s most beloved celebrities and capturing cultural moments that have captivated the nation.
As PEOPLE looks towards the future, Editor in Chief Wendy Naugle emphasizes the importance of staying true to the magazine’s roots while embracing new technologies and storytelling methods. The magazine’s audience, the largest of any magazine brand in the world, has been connected to the pulse of American culture for 50 years, and PEOPLE remains committed to providing engaging and impactful content for years to come.