It was not so long ago that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were making headlines for their foray into the world of podcasting. Their production company, Archewell Audio, had signed a deal with Spotify to produce a series of podcasts. The first podcast in the series, “Archetypes”, debuted to much fanfare and excitement. However, it now seems that the excitement was short-lived.
Spotify has announced that it has ended its commercial partnership with Archewell Audio, and the couple will not be producing any further podcasts with the streaming platform. Now, let’s dive deep and take a closer look at the reasons behind the collapse of this partnership.
The Start of the Partnership
In December 2020, Archewell Audio announced its groundbreaking deal with Spotify. The partnership was marketed as a way for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to share their story and connect with people all over the world through the power of podcasting.
The deal was reported to be worth tens of millions of dollars. By then, it was apparent that Spotify had big plans for the couple.
“Archetype:” The Debut Podcast
The first podcast in the series, “Archetypes”, aimed to explore the concept of heroism through interviews with various guests. The podcast was met with mixed reviews from listeners and critics alike. Some praised the couple’s efforts while others criticized it as being nothing more than a vanity project for the couple.
Despite the mixed response, it seemed that the partnership between Archewell Audio and Spotify was off to a good start.
The End of the Partnership
However, it now seems that the partnership was not meant to be. Spotify has confirmed that it has ended its commercial partnership with Archewell Audio, and the couple will not be producing any further podcasts. The reasons behind the collapse of the partnership are not entirely clear.
However, it is rumored that the couple’s move to California may have had something to do with it. Additionally, there were reportedly creative differences between Archewell Audio and Spotify. Something that may have played a role in the decision to end the partnership.
What This Means for Podcasting?
The end of the partnership between Archewell Audio and Spotify could have big implications for the world of podcasting. Many had hoped that the couple’s influence and popularity would help to bring a new audience to the world of podcasting.
However, it now seems that the partnership was not successful. And it remains unclear whether other celebrities and influencers will be able to replicate the success of podcasting giants like Joe Rogan and Malcolm Gladwell.
Quick Sum Up
The end of the partnership between Archewell Audio and Spotify is a disappointment for fans of the couple and for the world of podcasting. However, it is important to remember that the medium of podcasting is still in its infancy. And there is still a lot of room for growth and innovation.
As the industry continues to evolve, we may see new and exciting collaborations between celebrities and podcasting platforms that could help to bring a new audience to the medium. For now, however, it seems that we will have to say goodbye to “Archetypes.”
