Dan Wakeford’s recent departure as editor-in-chief of Us Weekly marks a significant shift in the landscape of celebrity journalism. According to a leaked memo obtained by The Post, Wakeford, who previously held a prominent position at People magazine, announced his exit in an email to staff on a Friday, expressing his desire to pursue creative projects in film and literature. His last day at the magazine is set for January 9, 2026.
In his farewell message, Wakeford hinted at a continued relationship with Us Weekly, stating that he looks forward to contributing to special projects in the future. Despite his departure, he suggested that readers might still see his byline in the magazine, which boasted a combined print and digital circulation of 2 million last year, according to the Alliance for Audited Media.
However, insiders have indicated that Wakeford’s exit was not entirely voluntary. Sources within Us Weekly claimed he was “forced out” due to a perceived inability to secure high-profile exclusives with major Hollywood stars. While he had promised to deliver stories featuring A-list celebrities like Julia Roberts and Jennifer Aniston, the reality fell short, with the magazine instead featuring less prominent figures such as Sandra Lee and Countess Luann.
The magazine’s content under Wakeford’s leadership has reportedly lacked the star power that characterized previous editions. Insiders noted that the top story on Us Weekly’s website at the time of his departure revolved around a reality TV star’s divorce, a stark contrast to the high-profile exclusives that fans have come to expect from the publication. Additionally, Wakeford’s work habits were called into question, with reports suggesting he preferred to work remotely rather than being present in the office.
This pattern of disengagement echoes Wakeford’s previous tenure at the ill-fated media startup, The Messenger, where he also faced criticism for his lack of visibility and hands-on leadership. Despite a substantial annual salary of $900,000, The Messenger shuttered just nine months after its launch, leaving staff bewildered by his management style and lack of presence.
Us Weekly, which has a storied history dating back to its founding as a bi-weekly publication in 1977, has undergone numerous ownership changes over the years. It was initially launched by the New York Times Company and has since become part of McClatchy Media, which owns the Miami Herald. The magazine’s ability to adapt to the evolving media landscape will be crucial as it moves forward without Wakeford at the helm.
As the entertainment industry continues to shift, the challenges faced by Us Weekly under Wakeford’s leadership highlight the pressures of maintaining relevance in a crowded market. The magazine’s future direction will be closely watched as it seeks to reclaim its status as a go-to source for celebrity news and gossip.
