Shane Smith

Shane Smith is a Canadian journalist, director, writer, media executive and producer, founder of Vice Media. After earning a degree in English literature and political science from Carleton University, he joined Montreal’s underground press in the 1990s, co-creating Vice in 1994. Originally a punk magazine, it grew under his direction into a global youth media company spanning digital platforms, television, music, publishing, and film. As CEO and later executive chairman, Smith oversaw partnerships with broadcasters and tech companies while building Vice into an international network. Alongside his executive role, he has worked as a reporter and host, producing on-the-ground coverage from regions such as North Korea, Iran, and Afghanistan.