Former Loaded editor shares untold stories from the iconic 90s lads' mag
A new BBC documentary titled "Loaded: Lads, Mags and Mayhem" explores the history of the original Loaded magazine, which launched in 1994. The magazine was known for its irreverent humor and cultural commentary, selling over half a million copies monthly at its peak. Former editor Bill Borrows shares behind-the-scenes stories, including encounters with celebrities like Robbie Williams and Hunter S. Thompson. He highlights the chaotic work environment and the magazine's role in shaping 1990s youth culture, contrasting it with later, less impactful lads' mags. The documentary, however, omits significant figures like Beth Summers, the magazine's fashion editor, who played a crucial role in its success. Critics note that the film fails to capture the magazine's true spirit and the positive contributions of women in its history.