On June 8, 2026, Time Magazine released its latest issue, continuing its nearly century-long run of shaping public narratives. But while the legacy outlet remains a fixture of modern journalism, podcasters are looking back at its historical knack for helping controversial figures rewrite their own histories.
On Stuff You Missed in History Class, host Holly Frey highlighted a striking example of how the publication once helped clean up a con man's reputation. Discussing the life of hypnotist and fraudster E. Virgil Neal, Frey noted how easily his past was erased, pointing out that "in 1933, Time Magazine ran an article about him titled Medicine from Sedalia."
This retrospective look at Time Magazine's archives serves as a reminder of the power the publication has wielded for decades in defining who is viewed as a legitimate success versus a shady operator. As the magazine navigates the digital media landscape of 2026, its historical editorial choices continue to face modern scrutiny.