FHM's readers spanned a wide age range, but what did they have in common?
As a magazine catering to young men in their 20s and 30s, it is natural to assume that the majority of its readers would be within this demographic. However, research has shown that the magazine had a surprisingly diverse readership, including those who were much older than its target audience. This raises the question - what did these older readers have in common with their younger counterparts? What attracted them to a publication designed for a specific age group?
One possible explanation lies in the content of the magazine itself. While FHM was known for its focus on lifestyle and culture, it also featured articles on topics such as dating, relationships, and sex. These types of stories may appeal to people of all ages, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation. Additionally, the magazine frequently included interviews with celebrities and public figures who could resonate with readers of any age, providing insights into their lives and careers.
Another factor could be the overall tone and style of the writing. FHM prided itself on being irreverent, humorous, and lighthearted, which could have made it accessible to readers from different generations. The magazine often used pop culture references and humor to engage with its audience, creating a sense of community among readers who shared similar interests.
It is also possible that the magazine's advertising strategy played a role in broadening its reach. By featuring products and services that appealed to a wide range of consumers, FHM may have been able to attract older readers who were interested in maintaining an active lifestyle or exploring new trends in fashion, technology, or travel.
Overall, while FHM's primary demographic was young men in their 20s and 30s, its readership spanned much further than this, encompassing individuals of various backgrounds and life stages. It remains unclear what exactly drew these readers to the magazine, but there are likely several contributing factors that made it appealing to a diverse audience..