The New York Post is launching the California Post in 2026, bringing its bold, tabloid-style journalism to Los Angeles. Here’s what readers can expect.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The New York Post is making its boldest move in years: heading west to tap into one of America’s largest and most influential media markets. In early 2026, the iconic tabloid will debut its newest sibling publication, The California Post, headquartered in Los Angeles. Backed by Rupert Murdoch’s News Corp and operating under the New York Post Media Group, the California Post aims to deliver the same punchy, provocative style that has long defined the Post — but now with a uniquely Californian twist.
What Is the California Post?
The California Post will be a daily print and digital publication, covering everything from local news to national entertainment, sports, politics, and lifestyle. While it will operate independently, it will share reporting resources with its East Coast counterpart.
- Publisher: New York Post Media Group (a subsidiary of News Corp)
- Editor-in-Chief: Nick Papps
- Print + Digital: Yes, including a daily print edition
- Launch Date: Early 2026
The publication promises to bring a “common-sense, issue-based approach to metropolitan journalism,” said NY Post Editor-in-Chief Keith Poole, highlighting California’s role as the center of entertainment, AI innovation, advanced manufacturing, and sports.
Why Los Angeles?
The move into California — especially Los Angeles — is strategic:
- Population: California is the most populous state in the U.S.
- Entertainment Capital: Hollywood remains the epicenter of the global entertainment industry.
- AI & Manufacturing Hub: Emerging as a leader in AI development and advanced industrial technologies.
- Reader Base: Los Angeles already boasts 3.5 million unique monthly Post readers; 7.3 million statewide.
- Digital Reach: About 90% of New York Post digital readers live outside the NYC media market.
“This is the next manifestation of our national brand,” Poole emphasized.
A Tabloid for the TikTok Generation — California Style
Expect the same gossipy headlines, pun-laden covers, and bold takes that built the New York Post’s brand. But now, readers will get an LA spin:
- Celebrity gossip from Hollywood’s front yard
- In-depth coverage of California politics
- Hard-hitting sports journalism from teams like the Lakers, Dodgers, and 49ers
- Opinion columns with West Coast flavor
- Investigative reporting aimed at holding power accountable
Filling a Void in California’s Shrinking News Industry
California’s news media has been shrinking rapidly. According to the Northwestern Medill School of Journalism’s 2023 State of Local News Report:
- The state has lost one-third of its newspapers since 2005
- Local outlets face rising production costs and plummeting ad revenues
- Major publications have downsized or shuttered altogether
The California Post sees this vacuum as an opportunity to expand tabloid-style journalism across the state. Robert Thomson, CEO of News Corp, remarked:
“There is no doubt that The Post will play a crucial role in engaging and enlightening readers, who are starved of serious reporting and puckish wit.”
Competing with Hollywood’s Trade Giants
With a home base in LA, the California Post also sets its sights on challenging the dominance of Hollywood trade papers like:
- Variety
- The Hollywood Reporter
- Deadline
While these publications cater to industry insiders, the California Post plans to offer broader appeal, combining insider scoops with mass-market style.
Who’s Leading the California Post?
Nick Papps, a News Corp veteran, will serve as the new editor-in-chief. He’ll report to Keith Poole, who will continue to oversee the New York Post and Page Six.
Papps brings decades of editorial experience and is expected to infuse the new venture with both local insight and the brash energy typical of the Post.
Strategic Advantages of the Expansion
- Brand Nationalization: Extending the New York Post’s national footprint
- Cross-Promotional Power: Ability to share stories and content across platforms
- Ad Revenue Boost: Tapping into California’s diverse advertiser base
- Print Revival: Betting big on daily print in a digital-first world
Critics and Challenges Ahead
Of course, not everyone is enthusiastic. Media observers question whether the Post’s aggressive editorial style will resonate in politically and culturally diverse California.
There are also challenges:
- Navigating California’s stricter libel and privacy laws
- Building trust in a region already skeptical of East Coast media
- Standing out in an already noisy entertainment news space
Still, the Post Media Group seems confident that boldness, humor, and unapologetic takes will set it apart.
Final Thoughts
The California Post launch is more than a new paper — it’s a calculated strike at the heart of American media. With traditional outlets in decline and audiences hungry for both authenticity and edge, the New York Post’s West Coast play may shake up journalism norms from Hollywood to Silicon Valley.
Whether it disrupts or divides, one thing is certain: The California Post won’t be boring.
FAQ: The California Post
Q: When will the California Post launch?
A: Early 2026.
Q: Will there be a print edition?
A: Yes, it will feature a daily print newspaper along with digital content.
Q: Who owns the California Post?
A: It is owned by the New York Post Media Group, part of News Corp.
Q: Who is the editor of the California Post?
A: Nick Papps, a longtime News Corp editor.
Q: What’s different from the New York Post?
A: Same bold tabloid style, but focused on California’s politics, entertainment, and local news.