With the Truth Seekers Summit presented by Paramount+ less than a month away—August 15th in The Big Apple—Rolling Stone and Variety have added more esteemed names to an already star-studded lineup.
In an era where truth and integrity in journalism are more crucial than ever, journalist and author E. Jean Carroll will be honored with the Truth Seeker Award. This accolade celebrates the extraordinary achievements of journalists and documentary filmmakers dedicated to unearthing the truth, and Carroll’s steadfast commitment to truth and justice is documented (most notably, her recent legal battles against former President Donald J. Trump). Carroll’s illustrious career is also marked by her popular “Ask E. Jean” column, which ran from 1993 to 2019 in Elle Magazine and became one of the longest-running columns in history. Her engaging and insightful advice earned her a dedicated readership and cemented her reputation as a trusted voice in journalism. Beyond her column, Carroll’s contributions to television include her work on Saturday Night Live and America’s Talking, the precursor to MSNBC, which earned her a Primetime Emmy Award nomination.
The recognition of Carroll’s bravery and dedication comes as no surprise to those familiar with her relentless pursuit of truth. Over the past year, she has become a symbol of resilience and courage, standing up against powerful figures to seek justice and accountability. Like past honorees, such as MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow, the decision to honor Carroll underscores the vital role of journalists who dare to challenge the status quo and expose the truth, regardless of the personal cost—which is what the Truth Seekers Summit is all about.
The Summit will also feature an impressive list of documentary filmmakers and true-crime experts, ensuring attendees a rich and enlightening experience. Gotham Chopra, renowned director and executive producer of Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story and In The Arena: Serena Williams, will join the Documentary Panel, which already features Alex Stapleton (director, God Save Texas); Rahman Ali Bugg (director, Exposing Parchman and Welcome to Rap City); Nanette Burstein (director/executive producer, Elizabeth Taylor: The Lost Tapes); and Andrew McCarthy (director/producer, Brats).
Also announced, director Geeta Gandbhir (Born In Synanon, Emmy Award-winning Through Our Eyes: Apart) will participate in the “True Crime Masters Tell All” panel. Gandbhir’s distinguished career in true-crime storytelling will be complemented by the insights of Muta’Ali Muhammad (director, MoviePass, MovieCrash and Yusuf Hawkins: Storm Over Brooklyn); Christian Hansen (executive producer, American Conspiracy: The Octopus Murders); Amara Cofer (host/ co-creator, Black Girl Gone); Brian Knappenberger (director, Trials of Gabriel Fernandez and Turning Point); and Andrew Jarecki (executive producer/creator, The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst Parts 1 & 2).
Other notable names already announced to appear at the Truth Seekers Summit include Oscar and Emmy-winning filmmaker Alex Gibney, Crime Stories host Nancy Grace, America’s Most Wanted’s father-and-son hosts John and Callahan Walsh, radio personality Charlamagne tha God, comedian and The Daily Show correspondent Lewis Black, and Tony, Emmy and WGA Award-nominated writer and comedienne Amber Ruffin.
As the Truth Seekers Summit presented by Paramount+ approaches, anticipation builds for a gathering that promises to be both inspiring and thought-provoking and serves as a poignant reminder of the power of journalism in shaping a more just and truthful world.
Look out for more Rolling Stone and Variety announcements as the Summit draws near.
A special print issue will be produced for subscribers of the two iconic brands. It will feature original and archival stories highlighting Rolling Stone and Variety’s shared commitment to the truth.For those who won’t be able to attend the Truth Seekers Summit in New York City, you can register for virtual access here.