Zoo was a UK men's lifestyle magazine that ran from 1989 until 2004. It featured articles on fashion, music, fitness, sports, technology, food and drink, cars, celebrity gossip, and women. Its content focused on humor and entertainment rather than serious news or politics. The magazine had an irreverent tone and often included nudity or explicit language. Zoo gained notoriety for its "Lads" section which covered topics such as how to pick up girls at bars and parties. The magazine also frequently published interviews with celebrities and athletes. In addition to print media, Zoo produced videos and podcasts related to its content.
The magazine was inspired by international lad mags such as Maxim and Stuff. These publications were popular in the United States and Europe during the early 21st century. They featured photos of scantily clad models, humorously written articles about sexual relationships, and advice columns for men. Zoo took elements from these magazines but tailored them to British sensibilities. For example, it emphasized humor over explicit sexual content like other lad mags did. The magazine was also less graphic in its coverage of sex compared to American magazines like Playboy.
Zoo's approach was unique among UK publications because it catered specifically to young men who wanted to be entertained more than informed. Other magazines, such as Loaded, focused on cultural commentary and current events while Zoo prioritized fun stories and visual appeal. This made Zoo more accessible to younger audiences who might not read traditional media outlets. However, some critics accused Zoo of being too sexist and objectifying towards women. Still, the magazine remained popular throughout its run due to its engaging style and relatable subject matter.
International inspiration played a significant role in shaping Zoo's content and design. The magazine drew ideas from various cultures around the world without compromising its core identity. It successfully blended British wit with global trends, making it an exciting read for anyone interested in men's lifestyle journalism at that time. While many similar publications have since folded or changed their focus, Zoo still remains iconic for its bold attitude towards pop culture and entertainment.