Big Brother 81

Big Brother Issue #81 (February 2002) is one of the magazine's most memorable editions, mixing high-calibre skateboarding with the offbeat humour and deliberately absurd features that had become its trademark. From a cover featuring a skateboarding chimpanzee to a feature interview with Louie the chimp, the issue perfectly captures Big Brother's willingness to blur the line between serious skate journalism and outright satire.

The skateboarding coverage remains the heart of the magazine. Chris Nieratko embarks on a chaotic road trip through New Jersey, while Anthony Correa receives an in-depth profile highlighting the East Coast powerhouse's technical street skating. The issue also follows the final days of several well-known skate spots, including Louie the Chimp's unlikely "exit," the closure of the Element Skate Camp, the end of Volcom's amateur contest, and other changing landmarks within skate culture. A standout Rick McCrank feature showcases his effortless style through a collection of striking photography, while the regular Goddamn Am section focuses on up-and-coming amateur talent.

Away from skateboarding, the magazine delivers its usual mix of irreverent pop culture with interviews featuring Joe Strummer, musician John Walsh and comedian Horsy. Regular departments include Potpourri, Skatepark Review, Skate Dolls, Product Review, CD Reviews, letters and news, rounding out an issue that balances genuine skate journalism with the unpredictable editorial voice that made Big Brother unlike any other skate magazine of its era.