Stay Updated with the Latest Pop Culture News from Entertainment Weekly

Pop culture icons in a colorful, game-like illustration.
Table of Contents
    Add a header to begin generating the table of contents

    So, you want to keep up with all the latest buzz in movies, TV, music, and more? Entertainment Weekly has been a go-to spot for that for ages. It started out as a weekly print magazine back in 1990, but things have changed. Now, it’s mostly online, keeping you updated daily with news, reviews, and all sorts of fun stuff. Whether you’re into the big blockbusters or the indie darlings, EW tries to cover it all. It’s a pretty solid place to get your entertainment fix, even if the print version is gone.

    Key Takeaways

    • Entertainment Weekly (EW) started as a print magazine in 1990 and now focuses on digital content, offering daily updates on film, TV, music, and pop culture.
    • Unlike magazines focused solely on celebrity gossip, EW provides news and critical reviews for a general audience, distinguishing it from trade publications like Variety.
    • EW features regular sections like ‘Sound Bites,’ ‘The Must List,’ ‘First Look,’ and ‘The Hit List’ to highlight current and upcoming entertainment.
    • The magazine has a digital presence through EW.com, which provides daily content and breaking news, and also had a radio presence on Sirius XM.
    • EW is known for special issues such as the Fall TV Preview and the End-of-Year issue, which includes the reader-selected ‘Entertainer of the Year’.

    Understanding Entertainment Weekly’s Coverage

    Entertainment Weekly, often shortened to EW, has carved out a distinct space in the pop culture landscape. It’s not just about celebrity gossip; EW aims to provide a broader look at the entertainment industry. Think of it as your go-to source for what’s happening across movies, TV, music, and books, all presented in a way that’s accessible to everyone, not just industry insiders.

    Comprehensive Scope of Entertainment Weekly

    EW covers a wide array of entertainment topics. From the latest blockbuster movie releases and trending TV shows to new music albums and must-read books, they aim to touch on it all. They also keep an eye on theater and the broader world of popular culture. This wide net means you’re likely to find something that catches your interest, no matter your specific tastes.

    Distinguishing Entertainment Weekly from Other Publications

    What sets EW apart? Well, unlike magazines that focus heavily on the personal lives of celebrities, EW tends to concentrate more on the media itself – the reviews, the news, and the trends. They’re not trying to be Us Weekly or People. On the other hand, publications like Variety or The Hollywood Reporter often cater to industry professionals. EW strikes a balance, offering in-depth analysis and news for a general audience.

    Focus on Critical Reviews and News

    At its core, EW is about providing informed opinions and timely news. You’ll find critical reviews of films, television series, and music, helping you decide what’s worth your time and money. Beyond reviews, they report on breaking news, industry shifts, and behind-the-scenes developments. This blend of critical assessment and news reporting is a hallmark of their approach.

    EW’s content often includes sections that break down the week’s most talked-about events and cultural moments. They also feature "First Looks" at upcoming projects, giving readers an early glimpse into what’s on the horizon in the entertainment world. It’s a way to stay ahead of the curve.

    Here’s a look at some of their regular features:

    • Sound Bites: Short, memorable quotes from media personalities.
    • The Must List: A curated selection of 10 things the staff recommends each week.
    • First Look: Sneak peeks at upcoming movies, shows, and music.
    • The Hit List: A weekly rundown of major events with commentary.
    • The Hollywood Insider: Quick updates on the latest entertainment news.
    • The Style Report: A look at celebrity fashion trends.

    This structure helps readers quickly get up to speed on what’s happening. It’s a lot like how the Snake game keeps you engaged with simple, clear objectives. The magazine also features sections like "The Monitor" for major celebrity life events and "Legacy" for obituaries, providing a more personal touch to their coverage.

    The Evolution of Entertainment Weekly

    From Print Debut to Digital Focus

    Entertainment Weekly (EW) first hit newsstands on February 16, 1990. It was created as a sister publication to People magazine, aiming to cover the vast landscape of popular culture. The initial vision was to be a consumer guide, offering reviews and news on movies, music, television, and books. For years, EW was a weekly fixture, providing timely updates and in-depth features. The magazine’s early success was notable, even earning the prestigious National Magazine Award for General Excellence twice, in 1996 and 2002. This period solidified its place as a go-to source for entertainment news.

    Key Milestones in Entertainment Weekly’s History

    EW’s journey has seen several significant shifts. In 1996, it was recognized with the National Magazine Award for General Excellence, a testament to its quality journalism. A more recent development was the launch of the People/Entertainment Weekly Network (PEN) in 2016, which later rebranded as PeopleTV. This move signaled a growing emphasis on video content and digital platforms. The magazine also expanded its reach internationally, launching a Greek edition in August 2021, showing its global appeal.

    Transition to Monthly Print Issues

    In a significant change reflecting the evolving media landscape, Entertainment Weekly transitioned to a monthly print schedule starting with the August 2019 issue. This shift was accompanied by a commitment to even more robust 24/7 digital coverage. While the frequency of the physical magazine changed, EW continued to produce weekly digital "covers," expand its podcast offerings, and plan events. This strategic move allowed the publication to maintain its presence across various platforms, adapting to how audiences consume entertainment news today. The print magazine eventually ceased publication in April 2022, marking a full transition to a digital-first model, though the legacy name "Weekly" persists.

    The media industry is always changing, and EW has shown a consistent ability to adapt. From its beginnings as a weekly print magazine to its current digital-first approach, the publication has stayed relevant by embracing new technologies and platforms. This adaptability is key to its long-standing presence in the pop culture conversation.

    Here’s a look at some key dates:

    • February 16, 1990: First issue published.
    • 1996 & 2002: Wins National Magazine Award for General Excellence.
    • September 2016: Launches People/Entertainment Weekly Network (PEN).
    • August 2019: Transitions to a monthly print schedule.
    • February 9, 2022: Ceases print publication, moving to digital-only.

    This evolution mirrors broader trends in publishing, much like how institutions like MIT continue to innovate in their respective fields.

    Navigating Entertainment Weekly Content

    Exploring ‘Sound Bites’ and ‘The Must List’

    Entertainment Weekly has a few sections that are really good for getting a quick feel for what’s hot and what’s not. ‘Sound Bites’ is where you’ll find short, punchy reviews of new music releases. It’s great if you don’t have a lot of time but still want to know about the latest albums and singles. Think of it as a curated playlist of what the critics are talking about. Then there’s ‘The Must List.’ This is a weekly rundown of the top entertainment picks across movies, TV, music, and books. It’s basically EW’s cheat sheet for your week’s entertainment. If you’re ever wondering what to watch, listen to, or read, this is a solid place to start.

    Discovering ‘First Look’ and ‘The Hit List’

    When a new movie or TV show is on the horizon, ‘First Look’ is often where you’ll find the initial buzz. This section gives you an early peek at upcoming projects, often featuring interviews with the stars and creators, plus exclusive photos. It’s designed to build anticipation and give you the inside scoop before anyone else. ‘The Hit List’ is another regular feature that highlights the most popular and talked-about shows, movies, and music. It’s less about critical reviews and more about what’s capturing the public’s attention. It helps you stay on top of the cultural conversation.

    Understanding ‘The Hollywood Insider’ and ‘The Style Report’

    ‘The Hollywood Insider’ is where EW gets a bit more serious, offering deeper dives into the business side of entertainment. You’ll find analyses of industry trends, profiles of influential figures, and sometimes, investigative pieces. It’s for those who want to understand the mechanics behind the magic. On a different note, ‘The Style Report’ focuses on the fashion and aesthetics of entertainment. This section covers what celebrities are wearing on the red carpet, the trends shaping Hollywood style, and sometimes even looks at the design elements in films and TV shows. It’s a peek into the visual world that complements the stories being told.

    These distinct sections within Entertainment Weekly cater to different interests, from quick recommendations to in-depth industry analysis and visual trends. It’s a layered approach to covering the vast landscape of popular culture.

    Here’s a quick look at what each section generally covers:

    Section NamePrimary Focus
    Sound BitesNew music releases, album and single reviews
    The Must ListTop weekly entertainment recommendations
    First LookEarly previews of upcoming movies and TV shows
    The Hit ListPopular and trending entertainment
    The Hollywood InsiderIndustry news, business analysis, profiles
    The Style ReportCelebrity fashion, red carpet looks, trends

    Engaging with Entertainment Weekly’s Community

    People interacting and sharing pop culture news.

    Entertainment Weekly isn’t just about reporting on the entertainment world; it’s also about building a connection with its readers. They’ve created several ways for fans to feel like they’re part of the conversation, going beyond just reading articles. It’s like having a backstage pass to the industry, but for everyone.

    The Role of ‘The Monitor’ and ‘Legacy’

    Sections like ‘The Monitor’ used to be where EW kept a pulse on the industry’s day-to-day happenings. Think of it as a quick rundown of what’s buzzing, from box office numbers to TV ratings. It’s where you’d get the quick hits of news that might not warrant a full-blown feature but were still important to know. Then there’s ‘Legacy,’ which often looks back at significant moments or figures in entertainment history. It’s a nod to the past, reminding us of the foundations upon which today’s pop culture is built. These parts of the magazine, even in its digital form, help create a sense of continuity and shared history among fans.

    Participating in Reader-Selected ‘Entertainer of the Year’

    One of the most direct ways readers get involved is through the annual ‘Entertainer of the Year’ selection. While editors might have their picks, EW often opens up voting or highlights reader favorites. This lets the audience have a say in who they believe made the biggest impact that year. It’s a fun way to see if your favorite star or show aligns with the broader fan base. The results are usually a big deal, often featured prominently on the cover or in a special digital package.

    The Poppy Awards: Honoring Unrecognized Talent

    Beyond the mainstream recognition, EW also made an effort to shine a light on talent that might otherwise fly under the radar. The Poppy Awards were a great example of this. They aimed to celebrate actors, shows, and moments that deserved more attention but perhaps didn’t get the same buzz as the blockbusters. It showed a commitment to a broader definition of entertainment excellence, acknowledging the hard work and creativity that goes into all corners of the industry. This initiative helped broaden the conversation about who and what deserves accolades.

    EW’s community features are designed to make readers feel like active participants rather than passive observers. By offering avenues for input and recognition, they build a stronger connection with their audience, turning a magazine into a shared experience.

    Accessing Entertainment Weekly’s Digital Presence

    Pop culture characters in a game-like digital world.

    EW.com: Daily Content and Breaking News

    EW.com is your go-to spot for up-to-the-minute entertainment news. Think of it as the heartbeat of pop culture, constantly updated with the latest happenings in movies, TV, music, and more. It’s where you’ll find breaking stories, in-depth articles, and exclusive interviews that you won’t see anywhere else. The site is designed to keep you informed, whether you’re catching up on yesterday’s buzz or looking for what’s hot today. It’s a dynamic platform that reflects the fast-paced nature of the entertainment world.

    Entertainment Weekly Radio on Sirius XM

    For those who enjoy their entertainment news with a side of audio, Entertainment Weekly Radio on Sirius XM is a fantastic resource. This channel features a mix of exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes discussions, and lively debates about the latest releases and industry trends. It’s a great way to get your entertainment fix while commuting, working out, or just relaxing. You can tune in to hear from the stars themselves and get the inside scoop directly from EW’s own journalists.

    Digital Exclusives and Archived Content

    Beyond the daily news and radio shows, EW’s digital presence includes a treasure trove of exclusive content and a deep archive. This means you can find special features, extended interviews, and photo galleries that aren’t published anywhere else. Plus, the archive allows you to revisit past articles, reviews, and features, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of entertainment or looking for a deep dive into a specific topic or artist. It’s like a digital library for pop culture fans.

    The shift to a more robust digital presence means that EW can react faster to breaking news and offer a wider variety of content formats. This includes everything from quick social media updates to long-form investigative pieces, all accessible from your computer or mobile device.

    Key Features of Entertainment Weekly

    Entertainment Weekly has always been known for its special issues that really dive deep into the year’s pop culture landscape. These aren’t just regular editions; they’re often landmark publications that readers look forward to all year.

    The Fall TV Preview Issue

    This is a big one for anyone who loves television. Every year, usually around late summer or early fall, EW puts out a special issue dedicated to the upcoming television season. It’s packed with information about new shows, returning favorites, and what to expect from your favorite networks and streaming services. You’ll find interviews with showrunners, sneak peeks at pilot episodes, and predictions about which shows are likely to become the next big hits. It’s basically your roadmap for the entire TV year.

    The End-of-Year Issue and Entertainer of the Year

    As the year winds down, EW releases another highly anticipated issue. This one typically celebrates the biggest moments and biggest stars of the past twelve months. The centerpiece is the announcement of their ‘Entertainer of the Year’, a title given to an individual or group who has had a significant and impactful year across multiple forms of entertainment. This issue often includes a retrospective look at the year in film, TV, music, and books, making it a great way to recap everything that happened.

    Notable Former Contributors to Entertainment Weekly

    Over the years, Entertainment Weekly has been a launchpad for many talented writers and critics. While the magazine has seen changes, its legacy is also built on the work of those who have contributed to its pages. Some notable individuals who have written for EW include:

    • Stephen King (author)
    • Gillian Flynn (author)
    • Diablo Cody (screenwriter)
    • Owen Gleiberman (film critic)
    • Ken Tucker (music critic)

    These contributors, among many others, have brought their unique perspectives and sharp insights to the magazine, helping to shape its voice and its reputation for insightful commentary on popular culture.

    The magazine’s commitment to special issues like the Fall TV Preview and the year-end wrap-up highlights its role as a curator and commentator on the entertainment world. These features go beyond simple news reporting, offering analysis and context that helps readers make sense of the ever-changing pop culture scene.

    Stay Connected to the Entertainment World

    So, if you’re someone who likes to know what’s happening in movies, TV, music, and all things pop culture, keeping up with Entertainment Weekly is a good idea. They’ve been around for a while, and even though they’ve shifted to digital, they still provide a lot of information. It’s a way to stay in the loop without having to search everywhere yourself. Think of it as your go-to source for what’s new and what’s worth checking out in the world of entertainment.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What kind of stuff does Entertainment Weekly cover?

    Entertainment Weekly, or EW as some call it, is all about the world of entertainment! Think movies, TV shows, music, books, and even what’s happening on Broadway. It’s like a one-stop shop for everything cool in pop culture.

    Is Entertainment Weekly still a print magazine?

    While EW used to be printed every week, it stopped its print version in April 2022. Now, it’s mainly a digital magazine, meaning you can find all its content online on EW.com.

    How is EW different from magazines like People?

    While magazines like People focus a lot on celebrity gossip and personal lives, EW is more about the actual entertainment itself. It dives into reviews of movies and music, and talks about the industry news, rather than just who’s dating whom.

    What are some of the cool sections in Entertainment Weekly?

    EW has some fun parts like ‘The Must List,’ which tells you the top 10 things to check out that week, and ‘First Look,’ which gives you an early peek at exciting new projects. They also have ‘The Hollywood Insider’ for the latest news and ‘The Style Report’ for celebrity fashion.

    Does Entertainment Weekly have anything for people who like awards shows?

    Yes! EW has the Poppy Awards, which are like their own special awards show. They celebrate TV shows and actors who might not get enough attention from other big awards like the Emmys. It’s a great way to discover hidden gems!

    Can I listen to Entertainment Weekly content?

    You sure can! Entertainment Weekly has its own radio station on Sirius XM. It’s a great way to get your daily dose of pop culture news and updates while you’re on the go.