In 2017 the “S****y Media Men” list began making the rounds on the internet. Coming right on the heels of the downfall of movie producer Harvey Weinstein, the list seemed poised to take down even more men in media. The editable, crowdsourced spreadsheet contained accusations — all made anonymously, that ranged from “creepy” direct messages to “rape” — against prominent figures in journalism and publishing.
“Wikipedia wrapped in razor blades” is how journalism professor and news veteran Jill Geisler described the list at the time, pointing out that the list represented a welcome reversal of power and gender dynamics, as well as potential to cause harm. “By all means examine it — but do so carefully or there may be a lot of blood on your hands,” Geisler wrote.
One man on the list who believes his life was damaged is Stephen Elliott, author of The Adderall Diaries, as well as other books. He has filed a defamation lawsuit against list creator Moira Donegan, and the “Jane Doe”s who contributed to it anonymously.