Fangoria Magazine

Fangoria Magazine, one of the most iconic publications for horror fans, was first published in 1979. Its origins can be traced to Starlog, a magazine that covered science fiction and fantasy. Publishers Norman Jacobs and Kerry O’Quinn initially planned for Fangoria to be a fantasy-based publication, but low sales forced them to pivot to horror, a genre that was experiencing a surge in popularity thanks to films like Halloween and Dawn of the Dead.

By Issue #7, Fangoria had found its niche, focusing primarily on horror films, and its circulation steadily grew. The magazine quickly became the go-to source for behind-the-scenes coverage of horror films, often featuring gory special effects that other mainstream publications avoided. Fangoria provided horror fans with interviews, exclusive set visits, and in-depth features on makeup and creature effects, fostering a sense of community among fans of the genre.

With its eye-catching covers and detailed content, it captured the attention of a broad audience that included casual viewers and dedicated horror aficionados. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Fangoria expanded its influence as horror became more mainstream, with hits such as A Nightmare on Elm Street and Friday the 13th captivating audiences. The magazine covered these franchises extensively, solidifying its position as an authority on horror entertainment.

Fangoria’s content extended beyond films to include interviews with directors, special effects artists, and actors, many of whom were cult figures in the horror community. The magazine also hosted conventions, video series, and film festivals, becoming a multi-platform brand. The 2000s, however, saw a gradual decline in the magazine’s print readership, as the rise of the internet changed the way people consumed media.

While Fangoria maintained a loyal following, the magazine struggled to adapt to digital trends, and print sales continued to drop. In 2015, Fangoria ceased its print publication after 36 years due to declining revenues and the growing dominance of digital media. Its publisher, The Brooklyn Company, struggled to keep the magazine afloat in a rapidly changing market where fan content was increasingly moving online.

The cessation of print left a void in the horror fan community, as Fangoria had been a central figure in the genre for decades. In 2018, the magazine was acquired by Cinestate, a Dallas-based production company led by Phil Nobile Jr., who took over as editor-in-chief. Cinestate revitalized Fangoria, bringing it back to its print roots with a quarterly magazine format. The revamped magazine retained its classic aesthetic but updated its content for modern horror fans.

Cinestate’s acquisition also saw Fangoria expand into film production, launching a series of horror films under the Fangoria banner, adding further layers to the brand’s legacy. Cinestate’s tenure as Fangoria’s owner was short-lived, marred by controversy in 2020. The company faced allegations of misconduct and workplace harassment within its film production arm, leading to a severe backlash from both employees and the horror community.

These issues ultimately forced Cinestate to sell Fangoria. In 2021, Fangoria was acquired by Wanderwall Entertainment, with Tara Ansley and Abhi Goel leading the magazine’s next chapter. The new ownership committed to a safer and more inclusive environment, promising to honor the magazine’s legacy while adapting to the current cultural and media landscape. Under their guidance, Fangoria continued to publish quarterly print issues,

each packed with the in-depth horror coverage that had defined the magazine for decades. Fangoria.com has become a major component of the brand’s digital presence. While Fangoria was historically known for its print magazine, the website now serves as a hub for breaking horror news, exclusive interviews, and reviews. Fangoria’s podcast network and social media platforms extend the magazine’s reach, catering to the contemporary audience’s shift toward digital content consumption.

Fangoria has also branched out into other media, including podcasts, events, and a film production division that has produced feature films under the Fangoria Presents banner. The magazine has also collaborated with other brands for horror-related merchandise, including limited-edition products that appeal to collectors and die-hard fans.

A major highlight of Fangoria’s influence on horror cinema is the Fangoria Chainsaw Awards. First held in 1992, these awards celebrate the best in horror film and television, as voted on by the fans. Over the years, the Chainsaw Awards have grown in prestige, offering a fan-driven alternative to traditional film awards. Categories include Best Horror Movie, Best Actor, and Best Makeup, among others, honoring both mainstream hits and smaller independent films.