Controversy Surrounds Vanity Fair’s Upcoming Issue Featuring Olivia Nuzzi
Vanity Fair’s upcoming glossy Hollywood issue is set to showcase an abstract nude portrait of editor Olivia Nuzzi, who has recently been embroiled in scandal. However, reports indicate that some staff members privately express concerns about her ability to fulfill her responsibilities since joining the publication.
This portrait, created by artist Isabelle Bulman, will feature in the print edition releasing on December 2nd. So far, images of the artwork haven’t been shared publicly, and it’s uncertain whether any copies have circulated within the Vanity Fair team.
Sources familiar with the situation have mentioned that the abstract piece will be included in the December edition, though they didn’t elaborate further.
Interestingly, the sketch was commissioned prior to the latest wave of controversies affecting the 32-year-old writer. Bulman previously collaborated with Nuzzi during her time at New York Magazine, which ended shortly after Nuzzi was involved in a “sexting” situation with Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
The inclusion of this sketch in Vanity Fair’s flagship issue has reportedly sparked internal unrest at a time when the magazine is already dealing with public scrutiny related to Nuzzi.
Concerns have been escalating about Nuzzi’s performance, with staff sharing that she has missed important meetings and failed to complete assigned work. One of her editorial responsibilities for this latest issue hasn’t been wrapped up, leaving colleagues in a tight spot as they approach the deadline for one of their most high-profile publications.
This turmoil is placing significant pressure on the new editorial director, Mark Guiducci, who took charge in June. He has communicated with the staff multiple times since the situation escalated, trying to alleviate concerns within the office.
During a recent team meeting, Guiducci shared details about his first encounter with Nuzzi and addressed the allegations, stating they were complicated to investigate due to their occurrence during her previous employment.
He provided his personal contact number to employees, inviting them to reach out with any worries they might have. Despite these efforts, there remains skepticism among some staff about Nuzzi’s capacity to continue her role, given her limited output and the chaos surrounding her.
Since Nuzzi is under contract rather than being a full-time employee at Condé Nast, she’s not obligated to attend the office or follow the usual HR protocols. This has apparently fueled tensions among colleagues, who are increasingly grappling with the reputational challenges her presence brings.
A representative for Nuzzi declined to comment on the situation.
In the midst of this turmoil, a Vanity Fair spokesperson noted that they are reassessing the decision to hire Nuzzi, particularly following claims made by her ex-fiancé, Ryan Lizza. He alleged that Nuzzi had an affair with former South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford during the 2020 presidential campaign, a situation that has intensified scrutiny of Nuzzi’s past.
Lizza, who previously worked alongside Nuzzi, has indicated his intention to release more information regarding their relationship.
This series of allegations and controversies has dominated discussions for nearly two weeks, placing Vanity Fair in a challenging position. Guiducci has reportedly sought the advice of Anna Wintour, the chief content officer at Condé Nast, as he navigates these turbulent waters.
It remains uncertain how Wintour or Condé Nast’s CEO, Roger Lynch, view this matter, but industry insiders suggest that the company may not tolerate ongoing damage to its reputation.
Condé has also been contacted for further comment on the situation.
