FHM is a men's lifestyle magazine that has been around for decades. Its popularity soared to new heights during the late 1980s when it began featuring pictures of scantily clad women. The magazine was known for its provocative and often risqué content, which included interviews with celebrities and articles about fashion, gaming, and technology. In 2007, FHM became part of Bauer Media Group after its parent company, Emap, was sold. This acquisition marked a new era for the publication, with digital transformation on the horizon.
The sale of Emap to Bauer Media Group brought with it a host of changes for FHM. Under Bauer Media, the magazine began to focus more on digital media, launching a website and social media accounts to reach a wider audience. They also expanded their coverage beyond just entertainment, including politics, sports, and current events.
One thing remained constant - FHM continued to feature attractive women in revealing outfits.
One of the most significant changes came in 2015 when FHM ceased printing physical copies of the magazine. Instead, they focused on producing digital content, including videos, podcasts, and interactive features. This move allowed them to reach an even larger audience and expand their reach globally.
Despite these changes, FHM continued to be controversial, particularly because of the way it objectified women. Critics argued that the magazine perpetuated harmful gender stereotypes and contributed to the sexualization of young people. Some even called for boycotts or bans of the publication. Despite this criticism, FHM remained popular among men who enjoyed the magazine's mix of sex appeal and pop culture commentary.
Today, FHM remains a prominent men's lifestyle brand, although it has undergone several iterations over the years. The publication continues to evolve as technology changes and the world becomes increasingly digitized. While some may mourn the loss of the physical magazine, others celebrate its ability to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing media landscape.