Glenn O'Brien Bashes 'GQ' and Discusses Leaving "The Style Guy" Behind

First things first, Glenn O'Brien is a menswear OG. Not only was he the originator and writer of GQ's famous "Style Guy" column for the past 15 years, he also has been an icon of fashion and culture since the days of David Bowie with his show "TV Party." Earlier in the year, O'Brien was suddenly removed the column he founded, recently replaced by GQ editor Mark Anthony Green.

From there, the story goes relatively quiet—until now. Our friends over at Four-Pins were able to sit down with O'Brien, getting the inside story on O'Brien's departure from GQ, and—more importantly—what he thinks of his "Style Guy" replacement. (Note: Shots fired)

While most menswear nerds (or casual GQ readers) think the "Style Guy" is something that GQ invented, O'Brien insists that the idea that someone could carry on the column (no matter who replaced him) wouldn't make sense. As O'Brien sees it, it's his column and moniker—if he's not writing it, then it's not written by "The Style Guy." O'Brien remarks,

In regards to how he was let go, O'Brien claims the process was sudden. It began when he noticed there wouldn't be a "Style Guy" column in the February issue. When his contract was up in June, instead of opting to renew, the magazine cut O'Brien loose. O'Brien also notes that an internal disagreement—centered on a feature the O'Brien refused to write for GQ editor-in-chief Jim Nelson—wasn't helping relations between him and magazine staff either.

But perhaps the final nail in the coffin, was a failed TV show concept for Condé Nast Entertainment. The plan was bring the "Style Guy" to life, with an animated Glenn O'Brien. Due to mishaps behind the scenes, the show and its concept never took off.

The current "Style Guy" has made sure to let readers know that the column will be integrating new technology—like Snapchat, Twitter, and Instagram—into how it delivers style advice and answers readers' questions. For O'Brien, this isn't a 21st century improvement on the formula he started, but rather, GQ's way of finally "allowing a writer to have his own voice."

In regards to his replacement, O'Brien was rather blunt:

But perhaps the most incendiary remarks were saved for GQ itself, who hardly acknowledge O'Brien's departure publicly, instead tying it into the announcement of Mark Anthony Green as their new "Style Guy".

It's refreshing to see someone be so unflinchingly honest in fashion today.

Head over to Four-Pins to read the whole interview (and GQ​ editor-in-chief Jim Nelson's response).