





Shout! was a beloved UK fortnightly magazine for teenage girls, published by the renowned Dundee-based D.C. Thomson & Co. Ltd. Below is a detailed look at its legacy:
Origins and Early Success (1993–mid-1990s)
First issue: Launched on 5 March 1993, priced at 75p. It included a poster of Scott Michaelson (from Neighbours) and a lipstick gift
It aimed at girls aged 11–14, especially after the cessation of Jackie magazine, reflecting the demand of the time .
Early content was a vibrant mix: celebrity gossip, fashion, horoscopes, reader problems, quizzes, embarrassing stories, posters, and true-life features about school, boys, and friendships
The first issue sold nearly 273,000 copies, signaling a strong appetite for a teenage girl–focused publication
Soon Shout! averaged 200,000 copies per issue during its peak in the mid-1990s
Amplifying Teen Culture and Celebrity Influence
Shout! offered its young readers early access to interviews with future stars like Leonardo DiCaprio, Keanu Reeves, and features on acts such as Take That, East 17, and Boyzone
Aspiring and future celebrities like Keeley Hawes, Holly Willoughby, and Emma Willis also graced its pages, giving readers a sense of connection to upcoming talent
The magazine embraced real and sensitive topics — from bullying and body image to relationships and mental health — through its famous "Problems" page, where readers received personal advice .
Innovative Growth & Evolution
In October 2008, Shout! launched a spin-off called Shout Secrets, offering more celebrity gossip and true-life stories to satisfy its audience’s interests
It moved to A4 format in 2010, expanding page count and revamping the design with features like GlamCam and confidence-boosting messaging — embracing the tagline “It’s all about you!”
In February 2019, a further extension emerged with The Feel Good Guide, targeting emotional wellbeing and self-care, reflecting the brand's commitment to positive youth engagement
Digital evolution included partnerships and campaigns like “You’re Beautiful Week” in 2013, and a pivot toward YouTube stars and online influencers starting around 2015
Decline and Final Issue
After enjoying over two decades of popularity—and selling a cumulative 70 million copies—Shout! faced steadily declining circulation
On 9 February 2023, D.C. Thomson announced that the magazine would cease publication after its 637th issue
The final edition honoured its legacy with nostalgic content, celebratory quizzes, and encouraged readers to reflect on their journey with the magazine as a companion through adolescence .
Legacy & Impact
Shout! became a cultural touchstone for teenage girls in the UK — blending celebrity culture, relatable advice, fashion, and social commentary.
It earned a reputation for being reader-led, conversational, and deeply trusted by its demographic—proof that teenage voices mattered
Over its 30-year run, it shaped teenage media, influencing confidence, beauty standards, and conversational trends across a generation.
In Summary
From its launch in 1993 to its final pages in 2023, Shout! stands as a testament to D.C. Thomson’s ability to evolve with its audience. Rooted in empathy, engagement, and an ear to its readers, it wasn't just a magazine—it was a friendly companion guiding young girls through the ups and downs of adolescence.
Please take a look at our current Shout magazine back issues available for sale - https://www.magazinecollectors.co.uk/womens-magazines/shout-magazine-back-issues