Cracked.com, a name synonymous with sardonic wit, insightful articles, and mind-blowing infographics, has carved a unique niche in the vast landscape of internet humor. But behind the hilarious headlines and cleverly crafted content lies a fascinating story of evolution, reinvention, and a dedicated team of writers and editors. Understanding the genesis of Cracked requires a journey back to its unlikely beginnings as a print magazine, a far cry from the digital powerhouse it is today.
From Print to Pixels: Tracing Cracked’s Roots
Before becoming a digital phenomenon, Cracked existed in the physical realm as a humor magazine. Its origins can be traced back to 1958, when it was created by Robert C. Sproul as a direct competitor to the then-dominant Mad magazine.
The Robert C. Sproul Era: A Mad Magazine Imitator?
Robert C. Sproul’s vision for Cracked was undeniably influenced by Mad magazine’s success. The magazine adopted a similar format, featuring satirical articles, parodies of popular culture, and goofy illustrations. It aimed to capture the same young audience that devoured Mad’s irreverent humor. While Sproul’s intentions were clear, Cracked struggled to truly differentiate itself from its more established competitor.
Cracked’s early years were marked by an attempt to replicate Mad’s formula, focusing on similar subject matter and artistic styles. The magazine featured a mascot, Sylvester P. Smythe, a buck-toothed, gap-toothed dimwit, who served as Cracked’s answer to Mad’s Alfred E. Neuman. Sylvester, often referred to as “Sylvester the Jester,” appeared on most covers and became a recognizable symbol of the magazine’s brand.
Despite its efforts, Cracked never quite achieved the same level of cultural impact or commercial success as Mad. It remained a second-tier humor publication, known more for its similarities to Mad than for its own unique voice. The magazine changed hands several times in the decades that followed, experiencing periods of both growth and decline.
The Dimestore Distribution and Archie Comic Connection
One contributing factor to Cracked’s initial challenges was its distribution. Unlike Mad, which secured prime placement on newsstands, Cracked was often relegated to the “dimestore” sections of retail outlets. This limited its visibility and accessibility to potential readers. Adding to the complexity, during much of its run as a print magazine, it was published by Major Magazines, a company associated with Archie Comics, which led to content restrictions that affected Cracked’s ability to fully embrace edgy or controversial humor.
The Digital Revolution: Cracked’s Transformation
The internet age brought about a radical shift in the media landscape, and Cracked was no exception. In the mid-2000s, the magazine underwent a dramatic transformation, transitioning from a struggling print publication to a thriving online humor website. This reinvention was largely driven by the vision of Jack O’Brien, who took over as editor-in-chief in 2006.
Jack O’Brien and the Birth of Cracked.com
Jack O’Brien recognized the potential of the internet to revitalize Cracked and reach a much wider audience. He envisioned a website that would offer a fresh, modern take on humor, blending satire with insightful commentary and visually appealing content. O’Brien assembled a team of talented writers, editors, and artists who shared his vision, and together they began to reshape Cracked’s identity.
Under O’Brien’s leadership, Cracked.com adopted a distinctive style that set it apart from other humor websites. The site became known for its list-based articles, often featuring bizarre facts, unexpected connections, and thought-provoking insights. The articles were meticulously researched, cleverly written, and presented in a visually engaging format, often incorporating infographics and images.
This new approach resonated with online audiences, and Cracked.com quickly gained popularity. The site’s traffic soared, and it established itself as a leading source of internet humor and commentary. Cracked’s success was a testament to the power of reinvention and the ability of a struggling brand to adapt to the changing media landscape.
Key Figures in Cracked’s Digital Success
While Jack O’Brien spearheaded the transformation, several other individuals played crucial roles in Cracked.com’s success. Writers like David Wong (Jason Pargin), Daniel O’Brien, and Michael Swaim became prominent voices on the site, contributing a wealth of insightful and hilarious articles. Editors like Jason Roeder and Kati Leifeld helped to shape the site’s editorial direction and ensure the quality of its content. The team worked collaboratively, fostering a creative environment that allowed for experimentation and innovation.
David Wong’s contributions were particularly noteworthy. His thought-provoking and often philosophical articles, blended with dark humor and personal anecdotes, helped to elevate Cracked.com beyond simple humor and into the realm of insightful social commentary. Daniel O’Brien’s wit and comedic timing made him a popular figure on the site, while Michael Swaim’s unique perspective and quirky humor added another dimension to Cracked’s appeal.
Gannett’s Acquisition and Subsequent Challenges
In 2016, Cracked.com was acquired by Gannett, a major media conglomerate. The acquisition initially seemed like a positive step, providing Cracked with greater resources and stability. However, the relationship between Cracked and Gannett proved to be challenging, and the site ultimately faced significant setbacks.
Layoffs, Changes in Direction, and Uncertainty
Following the acquisition, Gannett implemented a series of changes at Cracked, including layoffs and shifts in editorial direction. These changes led to uncertainty and discontent among the site’s staff and audience. Many felt that Gannett’s corporate culture clashed with Cracked’s unique identity and creative spirit.
The layoffs resulted in the departure of several key figures, including Jack O’Brien, Daniel O’Brien, and Michael Swaim. The loss of these talented individuals had a significant impact on the site’s content and overall direction. Cracked’s audience noticed the changes, and the site’s traffic began to decline.
Gannett’s attempts to integrate Cracked into its broader media portfolio proved to be unsuccessful. The site struggled to maintain its distinctive voice and appeal, and its future became uncertain. The acquisition, which had initially promised stability and growth, ultimately led to a period of decline and instability.
The Sale to Something Awful and a New Beginning
In 2018, Gannett sold Cracked to Something Awful, another humor website known for its irreverent and often controversial content. The sale marked a new chapter in Cracked’s history, offering the site a chance to rebuild and reclaim its former glory.
The acquisition by Something Awful brought about a renewed sense of optimism and excitement. The two sites share a similar sensibility and approach to humor, and many believed that the merger would create a stronger and more vibrant online community.
Under the leadership of Something Awful’s founder, Rich “Lowtax” Kyanka, Cracked began to focus on its core strengths: insightful humor, well-researched articles, and a strong sense of community. The site’s writers and editors were given greater creative freedom, and efforts were made to reconnect with its loyal audience.
Unfortunately, Kyanka’s leadership was cut short by his untimely death in 2021, leading to further uncertainty for the Cracked team. However, the website has persevered, maintaining its dedication to producing humorous and insightful content.
Cracked Today: Continuing the Legacy of Internet Humor
Despite the challenges it has faced, Cracked remains a significant force in the world of internet humor. The site continues to publish a steady stream of articles, videos, and podcasts, attracting a dedicated audience of readers and viewers. Cracked’s legacy as a pioneer of online humor is secure, and its influence can be seen in countless other websites and content creators.
The Enduring Appeal of Cracked’s Content
Cracked’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to blend humor with intelligence and insight. The site’s articles are not simply jokes or memes; they are often carefully researched and thoughtfully written, offering a unique perspective on a wide range of topics. Cracked’s content appeals to readers who appreciate wit, intelligence, and a willingness to challenge conventional wisdom.
The site’s focus on list-based articles and infographics has also proven to be highly effective in attracting and engaging online audiences. These formats are visually appealing and easy to digest, making them ideal for sharing on social media and other platforms. Cracked’s ability to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of online content has been key to its longevity and success.
Cracked’s commitment to fostering a strong sense of community has also been a significant factor in its enduring appeal. The site’s comment sections and forums provide a space for readers to connect with each other, share their thoughts and opinions, and engage in lively discussions. This sense of community has helped to create a loyal and dedicated audience that continues to support Cracked’s work.
The Future of Cracked: Evolution and Innovation
The future of Cracked remains uncertain, but the site’s commitment to quality content and community engagement suggests that it will continue to be a relevant and influential voice in the world of internet humor. As the media landscape continues to evolve, Cracked will need to adapt and innovate to remain competitive.
One potential avenue for growth is to expand its video and podcast offerings. These formats are becoming increasingly popular, and Cracked has the talent and resources to create compelling content in these areas. Another possibility is to focus on developing new and innovative forms of interactive content, such as quizzes, games, and virtual reality experiences.
Ultimately, Cracked’s success will depend on its ability to stay true to its core values while embracing new technologies and platforms. By continuing to produce insightful, humorous, and engaging content, Cracked can ensure that its legacy as a pioneer of internet humor will endure for years to come. The story of Cracked is a testament to the power of reinvention, the importance of community, and the enduring appeal of well-crafted humor.
Who originally founded Cracked magazine?
Cracked magazine was initially the brainchild of John Reardon, a former editor at rival humor magazine Mad. He launched Cracked in 1958 as a direct competitor, aiming to capture a similar audience with its parodies and satire, but often with a more simplistic and lowbrow approach. Reardon served as the magazine’s publisher and editor-in-chief, setting the tone and direction for its early years.
Reardon’s vision for Cracked was to offer a cheaper and more readily accessible alternative to Mad, which at the time had a higher cover price and a more sophisticated style. This accessibility, combined with its focus on parodying popular culture, allowed Cracked to find its own niche in the crowded humor magazine market, ultimately contributing to its long-term success and eventual transition to the internet.
When did Cracked transition from print to an online format?
Cracked began its transition from print to online content in 2007. This marked a significant shift in the magazine’s strategy, as it recognized the growing importance of the internet as a platform for humor and satire. While the print magazine continued for a few more years, the focus increasingly shifted towards building a strong online presence.
The online version of Cracked allowed for a more immediate and interactive relationship with its audience. It expanded its content beyond the traditional parody format of the print magazine, incorporating list-based articles, personal essays, and video content. This transformation proved successful, leading to a substantial increase in readership and solidifying Cracked’s position as a major player in the online humor landscape.
Who spearheaded Cracked’s online transformation?
Ben “Yahtzee” Croshaw and Jack O’Brien played key roles in spearheading Cracked’s online transformation. Croshaw, known for his Zero Punctuation video game review series, brought a unique voice and perspective to the website, attracting a new audience. He started contributing in 2007, the same year Cracked began its transition online.
Jack O’Brien, as editor-in-chief, was instrumental in shaping the editorial direction of Cracked’s online content. He fostered a community of talented writers and encouraged the development of new and innovative formats, helping to transform Cracked from a struggling print magazine into a popular and influential website. Together, they led the charge toward a more modern and relevant online presence.
What type of content is Cracked known for producing online?
Cracked is known for producing a wide variety of online content, primarily focusing on humor and satire. This includes list-based articles (often referred to as “listicles”), which explore a range of topics from pop culture to history to science, always with a comedic twist. These articles often delve into lesser-known facts and offer unique perspectives on familiar subjects.
In addition to listicles, Cracked is also known for its insightful and often darkly humorous personal essays, its satirical news coverage, and its comedic videos. The website also features articles that debunk common myths and misconceptions, providing a blend of entertainment and education. This diverse range of content has helped Cracked attract a broad audience and maintain its relevance in the ever-changing online landscape.
Why did Cracked’s online format become so popular?
Cracked’s online format became popular for several reasons, including its ability to adapt to changing internet trends and its focus on creating engaging and shareable content. The website embraced listicles, which were highly popular on the internet, and infused them with humor and insightful commentary. This made the articles easily digestible and shareable across social media platforms.
Furthermore, Cracked fostered a strong sense of community among its writers and readers. The website encouraged contributors to share personal stories and perspectives, which resonated with a wide audience. This combination of humor, information, and personal connection helped Cracked establish a loyal following and solidify its position as a leading online humor platform.
Is Cracked still publishing new content?
No, Cracked is no longer publishing new content. The website ceased regular updates and content production in December 2017 after its parent company, Scripps, decided to shut down the editorial operations. This decision was part of a broader restructuring and shift in focus within the company’s digital media portfolio.
While the Cracked website remains online and accessible, it primarily serves as an archive of the vast amount of content produced during its active years. The site still attracts visitors who are interested in revisiting the articles, videos, and other materials that made Cracked a popular source of online humor and commentary.
What impact did Cracked have on internet humor and online writing?
Cracked had a significant impact on internet humor and online writing by popularizing listicles as a comedic format and fostering a unique voice that blended humor with insightful social commentary. The website’s success helped to legitimize online humor as a viable form of entertainment and journalism, paving the way for other humor websites and content creators.
Moreover, Cracked provided a platform for many talented writers and comedians to develop their skills and gain exposure. Many of these individuals went on to successful careers in other areas of online media and entertainment, demonstrating the lasting influence of Cracked on the landscape of internet humor and online writing. Its impact can still be felt today through the many websites and content creators that have been inspired by its unique approach.