“Life” Magazine Is Relaunching Thanks to Karlie Kloss with a 250-Page First Issue That Costs $45

Life magazine is set to make a triumphant return, with its first new issue scheduled for release on 23rd November. The revitalised publication is led by supermodel Karlie Kloss and her husband, Joshua Kushner, a billionaire investor. Through their media company, Bedford Media, they aim to breathe new life into the historic magazine that has long been a staple of American journalism.

The inaugural issue will be priced at £45 and is expected to feature rich storytelling and evocative imagery that Life was once renowned for. In an effort to retain the magazine’s legacy, Kloss emphasised the importance of bridging connections among readers with diverse backgrounds. “What made Life extraordinary was its ability to make the world feel closer,” she stated, underscoring her commitment to honouring the publication’s storied past.

In a letter from the editorial team, it was revealed that the theme for the first new edition is “Where Are We Now?” This issue has been the collaborative effort of over 120 contributors, representing a wide array of voices. The letter described the issue as a lens through which readers can explore an America in search of meaning, featuring a mix of scientists, artists, entrepreneurs, children, and even coal miners.

Life magazine carries a notable historical legacy that began with its founding in 1936 by Henry Luce. The magazine’s first issue famously showcased a striking image of the Fort Peck Dam in Montana, captured by renowned photographer Margaret Bourke-White, and it sold out almost instantly. During its peak in the 1960s, Life boasted a circulation of over eight million copies. However, it struggled to maintain its readership as television became the primary source of visual storytelling, leading to a decline in the magazine’s popularity.

The publication adjusted its frequency several times over the decades, moving from a weekly to a monthly format before ceasing regular publication in 2000. This hiatus has created anticipation for its return, with many old fans eager to see what the relaunch will bring.

Beyond traditional print and digital formats, the newly revived Life magazine has ambitious plans that include producing documentary films, video content, and collectible items. Special edition prints and hosting events are also on the horizon, signalling a significant expansion of what Life can offer to its audience.

Kloss and Kushner’s involvement in Life magazine is not their only venture in the media landscape. Kloss also has a stake in i-D magazine, which her company acquired from Vice Media earlier this year. Additionally, she co-led an investor group that took over W Magazine in 2020, indicating both her growing influence in the media industry and her commitment to revitalising influential publications.

For those keen to obtain a copy of the new Life magazine, the editors have encouraged readers to sign up via the magazine’s website for further information on purchasing. As the date of release approaches, the anticipation continues to build around this storied publication’s fresh chapter.

Life magazine’s rebirth under Kloss and Kushner has ignited discussions about the future of print media in an increasingly digital world. It remains to be seen how the magazine will navigate contemporary challenges while remaining true to the core principles that made it a beloved institution for generations.