Sun Mar 23 13:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Vanity Fair’s Legendary Oscars Party: A Memoir Reveals All

**New York, NY** – Graydon Carter’s new memoir, “When the Going Was Good,” offers a behind-the-scenes look at his tumultuous yet glamorous 25-year reign as editor of Vanity Fair, culminating in the iconic – and often chaotic – Oscars parties he spearheaded. The book, released Tuesday, details the magazine’s transformation from a hostile internal environment to a Hollywood hotspot.

Carter, who took over Vanity Fair in 1992, describes his initial years as “dreadful,” marked by resistance from staff loyal to his predecessor. Despite this, he boldly launched Vanity Fair’s Oscars party in 1994, filling a void left by the death of legendary agent Swifty Lazar. What began as a relatively small gathering quickly escalated into a highly coveted event, attracting A-list celebrities and sparking intense competition for coveted invitations.

Guest list manager Sara Marks became the target of bribes, threats, and even abuse, with one Saudi prince reportedly offering a substantial sum for access. The party’s strict policy prioritized Oscar winners, creating a “speed lane” for statue-carrying attendees, while others faced long waits or rejection. Infamous incidents included a man attempting to gain entry with a pig he claimed was the star of “Babe,” and the lifetime ban of Harvey Weinstein for his rude behavior towards staff. Even Courtney Love earned a temporary ban after a public outburst directed at Marks.

While acknowledging the excesses of the era, justified by Condé Nast’s non-publicly traded status, Carter reveals the significant perks of his position – from Concorde flights to chauffeured cars – and his complex relationship with Vogue editor Anna Wintour.

The memoir also touches on notable Vanity Fair covers, including Meghan Markle’s pre-royal wedding debut, and the introduction of baby Suri Cruise, which led to several Christmas gifts from Tom Cruise. Carter reflects on his friendship with Princess Diana, sharing anecdotes about their conversations and expressing his belief that Diana would be saddened by Prince Harry’s estrangement from the royal family.

Concluding with advice gleaned from his career, including the importance of planning one’s exit strategy, Carter’s memoir paints a vivid portrait of Hollywood glamour, internal magazine politics, and the enduring legacy of Vanity Fair’s legendary Oscars party. He ultimately admits he’s moved on from the Oscars, preferring the Emmys, and even suggests his next big project might be different.

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