Happy 120th Birthday, Variety! When Vaudeville Ruled Entertainment
Variety magazine, a staple in the entertainment industry, recently celebrated its 120th birthday. In a special episode of the “Daily Variety” podcast, showbiz historians David Monod and Peter Rader took listeners back in time to December 16, 1905, when Variety was first launched.
During that era, the entertainment marketplace was vastly different from what we know today. Vaudeville, gramophones, and iconic performers like Caruso and Bernhardt ruled the entertainment scene. Variety’s inception marked a significant milestone in the industry, capturing the essence of the entertainment world at that time.
To commemorate this momentous occasion, a vintage front page of the first issue of Variety, published in New York on December 16, 1905, was shared. This snapshot from the past gives a glimpse into the publication’s humble beginnings and the evolution of entertainment journalism over the years.
Listeners were encouraged to tune in to the “Daily Variety” podcast on various platforms such as iHeartPodcasts, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Amazon Music, Spotify, and other podcast channels. The podcast offers a unique blend of entertainment news, industry insights, and interviews with key figures in the business.
As Variety continues to be a powerhouse in the entertainment landscape, it’s essential to reflect on its rich history and the impact it has had on shaping the industry. By looking back at where it all began, we can appreciate the journey that has led Variety to become a respected and influential voice in show business.
Join the celebration of Variety’s 120th birthday by exploring the podcast episode and delving into the magazine’s archives to uncover more treasures from its storied past. Cheers to 120 years of entertainment excellence, and here’s to many more years of captivating stories, groundbreaking journalism, and unforgettable moments in the world of entertainment.
