Jess Cagle is one of the most prominent and respected entertainment journalists in America. As Editor in Chief of People magazine (2014-2019), he grew its audience to 100 million across print, digital and video, and led People’s successful expansion into television. Under his leadership, the iconic entertainment brand also became a powerful force for social justice, and launched bold editorial initiatives to raise awareness of abuse, addiction, suicide, and gun violence. In 2016, Cagle was honored by the Brady Center for People’s campaign against gun violence, and by the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) for his advocacy for the LGBTQ community throughout his career.
Cagle has appeared frequently on TV—including Today, Good Morning America, and ABC’s Oscar pre-show—and hosts The Jess Cagle Interview, which has aired on People’s digital platforms and SiriusXM Radio. A 32-year-veteran of Time Inc (now Dotdash Meredith), Cagle began his career as a reporter at People, worked on the launch of Entertainment Weekly, and covered Hollywood for Time magazine. As Editor in Chief of EW (2009-2014), Cagle integrated print and digital editorial operations and transformed EW into a multiplatform breaking-news brand. A Texas native and graduate of Baylor University, Cagle lives in Los Angeles.