How Essence Survived Betrayal, Corporate Control & Scandal #essencemagazine
In 1970, Essence magazine was born out of struggle — a glossy lifestyle publication that celebrated Black women when no one else would. But behind the covers and beauty features was a story of betrayal, lawsuits, corporate takeovers, near collapse, and ultimate rebirth. This is not just a media story. It’s a business thriller. From its turbulent founding and a bitter legal battle between its co-founders, to its corporate sale to Time Inc., to its eventual return to Black ownership under Richelieu Dennis — Essence has refused to die. Even as scandals and industry collapse threatened its future, the magazine [See More…]
