Zeteo is a digital media company founded by British-American journalist and broadcaster Mehdi Hasan in early 2024. The platform operates as a subscription-based news organization, aiming to provide in-depth analysis, hard-hitting interviews, and unsparing commentary on global issues. The name "Zeteo" is derived from an ancient Greek word meaning "to seek out," reflecting the organization's commitment to uncovering the truth.[1][2][3]

Background

edit

In February of 2024, Mehdi Hasan announced the creation of Zeteo News during an interview with Forbes, stating that the platform would focus on investigative journalism and insightful discourse not commonly found in mainstream media.[1] The launch came after Hasan's departure from MSNBC's coverage on Gaza, which led to speculation about his motivations for establishing an independent media outlet.[4][5][6]

Content and Programming

edit

Zeteo offers a variety of content, including video series, podcasts, and written articles. Hasan hosts a video series on the platform,

Contributors

edit

The platform features contributions from a diverse group of journalists, authors, and activists such as Naomi Klein, Greta Thunberg, Viet Thanh Nguyen, John Harwood, Fatima Bhutto and Owen Jones.[2][7]

In April 2024, Egyptian comedian and satirist Bassem Youssef joined Zeteo to co-host a new podcast titled We're Not Kidding, which blends humor with discussions on social and political issues.[8][9]

Reception

edit

The launch of Zeteo garnered attention from various media outlets and commentators. The Hollywood Reporter noted that the platform could "reshape the digital media landscape by offering unfiltered perspectives on pressing global matters."[7] Rolling Stone highlighted the significance of high-profile contributors joining the venture, suggesting it reflects a growing demand for alternative news sources.[10]

However, some critics questioned the sustainability of a subscription-based model in an era where free content is abundant. The Washington Post discussed the challenges faced by new media companies in attracting and retaining subscribers amidst stiff competition.[11]

References

edit
  1. ^ a b Joyella, Mark. "Mehdi Hasan Says His New Digital Media Company Will Allow Him 'To Speak Bluntly' About The News". Forbes. Retrieved 2024-09-18.
  2. ^ a b Hasan, Mehdi. "About - Zeteo". zeteo.com. Retrieved 2024-09-18.
  3. ^ Zeteo (2024-04-21). Mehdi Hasan Unveils Zeteo At Launch Event in DC with AOC and Kara Swisher. Retrieved 2024-09-18 – via YouTube.
  4. ^ Jung, E. Alex (2024-04-23). "Mehdi Hasan Wants to Debate You". Intelligencer. Retrieved 2024-09-18.
  5. ^ "Mehdi Hasan launches Zeteo site after 'MSNBC Gaza removal'".
  6. ^ Weprin, Alex (2024-02-28). "After MSNBC Exit, Mehdi Hasan Launching Media Company Zeteo". The Hollywood Reporter. Retrieved 2024-09-18.
  7. ^ a b Weprin, Alex (2024-02-28). "After MSNBC Exit, Mehdi Hasan Launching Media Company Zeteo". The Hollywood Reporter. Retrieved 2024-09-18.
  8. ^ Zeteo, Team (2024-09-12). "Announcing 'We're Not Kidding with Mehdi & Friends'". zeteo.com. Retrieved 2024-09-18.
  9. ^ Zeteo (2024-04-19). Bassem Youssef Joins Mehdi Hasan to Host ‘We’re Not Kidding,’ Premieres April 25. Retrieved 2024-09-18 – via YouTube.
  10. ^ Perez, Andrew (2024-05-03). "Mehdi Hasan on Leaving MSNBC: 'A Lot of People Seem to Have Come With Me'". Rolling Stone. Retrieved 2024-09-18.
  11. ^ Barr, Jeremy (2024-09-05). "Mehdi Hasan saw a market for a new kind of media company. So far, so good". Washington Post. ISSN 0190-8286. Retrieved 2024-09-18.