• by Ray Schultz , Yesterday

Rolling Stone will have two editors in chief, including its first female in that role, with the appointment of Shirley Halperin and promotion of Sean Woods.

Halperin, who was co-editor in chief of The Hollywood Reporter, has been named co-editor in chief and head of music for Rolling Stone, effective September 1. Woods is being elevated, having served as executive editor during his tenure there. His new title takes effect immediately. 

“Sean and Shirley are unmatched in their expertise and passion for storytelling, and their partnership will play a pivotal role in shaping Rolling Stone’s future,” says Julian Holguin, CEO of Rolling Stone, which announced the news on Friday. “Both bring exceptional vision and a deep understanding of the brand’s legacy.”

Maer Roshan will now be the single editor in chief of The Hollywood Reporter.  

Halperin has also held executive positions at Variety, Billboard and Los Angeles Magazine. Woods, who has been at Rolling Stone for over 20 years, and lead the multi-media probe, The DJ and The War Crimes, which garnered an Emmy nomination in 2023. 

“We are going to be trying different formats and approaches — while sticking to our core principles of in-depth reporting, breaking news, gripping feature writing, and sharp cultural criticism,” Woods says.