The Onion's Satirical Legacy Secured: Twilio's Jeff Lawson Acquires Ownership

Jeff Lawson, the former CEO of Twilio, has recently acquired The Onion, a renowned satirical news outlet, from G/O Media. The sale marks a significant transition for The Onion, known for its unique brand of satire that has resonated in digital media for over three decades. The acquisition by Lawson's group, Global Tetrahedron, includes key figures like Ben Collins, Leila Brillson, and Danielle Strle, who bring diverse expertise from their previous roles at major companies like NBC News, Bumble, and Tumblr.

Under the new ownership, The Onion is set to undergo strategic changes, shifting from a click-based revenue model to a subscription-based approach. Plans include enhancing its social media presence, expanding merchandise offerings, and potentially reviving dormant projects like The Onion News Network and print newspapers. This acquisition aims to maintain The Onion's editorial independence and satirical voice, crucial for its commentary on social and political issues.

The commitment of the new owners to preserve The Onion's staff and engage with the union to potentially enhance compensation for writers ensures the satirical outlet's continued success in the evolving digital media landscape.