The Ankler: The Evolution of a Hollywood Industry Newsletter
In the fast-paced world of entertainment journalism, The Ankler has emerged as a significant voice covering the inner workings of Hollywood. Founded as a specialized newsletter, it has grown into a comprehensive media entity that bridges the gap between traditional studio power and the modern digital landscape.
The Founding and Early Growth
The Ankler was established in February 2017 by Richard Rushfield. Initially launched as a newsletter focused on the entertainment industry, it eventually transitioned to the Substack platform—a subscription-based publishing tool—two years after its inception.
A pivotal shift occurred in January 2022 when Janice Min, the former co-president of Billboard and The Hollywood Reporter, joined the organization. This partnership led to the formation of Ankler Media, with Min serving as CEO and Editor in Chief, while Rushfield transitioned into the role of editorial director.
The company's growth was further accelerated in June 2022, when it secured $1.5 million in funding through Y Combinator, achieving a valuation of $20 million.
Expanding Influence and Editorial Focus
The Ankler is known for its specific editorial lens. According to The New York Times, the publication focuses heavily on the tension between veteran Hollywood figures and the tech executives who are increasingly steering the industry's decision-making processes.
Beyond digital writing, the company has expanded into other media and live formats:
- Radio: In 2024, the publication signed a radio partnership with NPR's LAist.
- Live Events: Under Janice Min's leadership, the company expanded its event presence, including the "Documentary Spotlight with Raoul Peck" at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and a collaborative event with Pure Nonfiction in Los Angeles featuring speakers such as Andrew Jarecki, James Carville, and Matt Tyrnauer.
Industry Recognition and High-Profile Reach
The publication's influence is reflected in its readership and critical acclaim. The Ankler has attracted high-profile subscribers, including industry leaders such as David Zaslav, Patrick Whitesell, Kathleen Kennedy, and Donna Langley, as well as journalist Maureen Dowd.
This industry relevance was recognized by the Webby Awards, where The Ankler was nominated for "Best Independent Publisher" in the "Websites and Mobile Sites" category in both 2023 and 2024.
Diversification and Platform Independence
In 2025, Ankler Media diversified its portfolio by launching Like & Subscribe, a trade publication dedicated to the business of the creator economy—the economic system where independent content creators monetize their audiences.
The company has also faced challenges stemming from its editorial stances. In 2026, Richard Rushfield protested a merger between Paramount and Warner Bros. at CinemaCon by distributing "Block the Merger" buttons. This led Paramount to withdraw its advertising from The Ankler, citing that advocating for organizations attempting to block the merger crossed a professional line.
Marking a move toward full independence, The Ankler left Substack in April 2026. The company migrated to its own owned-and-operated website powered by WordPress, partnering with Passport (developed by Ben Thompson) to manage its newsletter distribution and subscriptions.
Key Facts
- Founded: February 2017 by Richard Rushfield.
- Leadership: Janice Min (CEO/Editor in Chief) and Richard Rushfield (Editorial Director).
- Funding: Raised $1.5 million via Y Combinator in 2022 at a $20 million valuation.
- New Ventures: Launched Like & Subscribe in 2025 to cover the creator economy.
- Platform Shift: Moved from Substack to a self-owned WordPress site in April 2026.
| Year | Event/Milestone | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Foundation | Founded by Richard Rushfield |
| 2022 | Corporate Expansion | Janice Min joins; Y Combinator funding secured |
| 2023-2024 | Industry Awards | Webby Award nominations for Best Independent Publisher |
| 2024 | Media Expansion | Radio deal with NPR's LAist |
| 2025 | New Publication | Launch of Like & Subscribe |
| 2026 | Infrastructure Change | Migration to owned WordPress site and Passport |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded The Ankler?
The Ankler was founded by Richard Rushfield in February 2017.
What is the focus of Ankler Media's coverage?
The publication focuses on the entertainment industry, specifically the clashes between traditional Hollywood figures and the tech executives now making major industry decisions.
What is Like & Subscribe?
Launched in 2025, Like & Subscribe is a trade publication created by The Ankler to cover the business aspects of the creator economy.
Why did Paramount pull its advertising from The Ankler?
Paramount withdrew its advertising in 2026 after Richard Rushfield protested a merger between Paramount and Warner Bros. at CinemaCon, which the company viewed as crossing a line by advocating for organizations trying to block the merger.
Which platform does The Ankler currently use for its website?
As of April 2026, The Ankler uses a self-owned WordPress website and partners with Passport for subscription management and newsletter distribution.