To differentiate themselves from rivals, many publications resort to bold experiments. However, these efforts don't always win public approval—especially when it comes to controversial magazine covers.
The Most Controversial Magazine Covers That Transformed the Glossy Industry
Demi Moore's Nude Pregnancy Cover for Vanity Fair
Demi Moore made history as the first celebrity to pose nude and pregnant on a glossy cover. The August 1991 issue of Vanity Fair caused a massive uproar in society. Later, many stars would recreate that iconic image.
John Lennon and Yoko Ono on Rolling Stone
The photograph of a naked John Lennon curled beside his wife Yoko Ono became legendary—not only for its striking composition but also because it was taken just hours before the Beatles member was killed.
Ellen DeGeneres on TIME Magazine
In 1997, TV host Ellen DeGeneres publicly came out as a lesbian. At the time, that was an extraordinarily daring and honest move. The cover, emblazoned with the words “Yes, I am a lesbian,” inevitably captured readers' attention.
Michael Jackson's Final Photo on OK! Weekly
The last image of Michael Jackson appeared on the cover of OK! Weekly. Unsurprisingly, it stirred strong emotions. Many criticized the publication for crossing an ethical line.
Princess Diana and Kate Middleton on Newsweek
Nobody expected to see Kate Middleton side by side with Princess Diana on a cover. Digital manipulation made it possible, but readers reacted negatively to the experiment.
Kim Kardashian on Paper Magazine
Kim Kardashian's cover for Paper didn't just generate enormous buzz—it instantly became one of the most parodied images, mimicked by both celebrities and ordinary readers.
Tess Holliday on Cosmopolitan
The October 2018 issue of Cosmopolitan featured plus-size model Tess Holliday as its cover star. Many readers accused the fashion glossy of promoting obesity, noting that Holliday weighs 155 kg.
