Months after inking a rumoured £100 million ($135 million) deal with Netflix to tell stories "that can help build resilience and increase understanding for audiences everywhere", Prince Harry, 36, and Meghan Markle have joined forces with audio streaming giant, Spotify.
With an eye to producing and hosting podcasts for the digital recording platform, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex already have their first broadcast planned, saying: "What we love about podcasting is that it reminds all of us to take a moment and to really listen, to connect to one another without distraction.
“With the challenges of 2020, there has never been a more important time to do so, because when we hear each other, and hear each other's stories, we are reminded of how interconnected we all are.”
In the first audio trailer for their joint venture, Harry says: "Ladies first", before Meghan, 39, insists: "No, say it first because I think it sounds really nice with your accent." The pair then go on to reveal who and what their podcasts will feature.
Here’s everything you need to know about Harry and Meghan’s podcast venture…
How much is the deal worth?
As with Harry and Meghan's Netflix deal, the financial arrangements are expected to be in the tens of millions. Popular US comedian, Joe Rogan, recently inked a $100 million deal with Spotify to exclusively broadcast his podcast. And the streaming giant also exclusively snapped up The Michelle Obama Podcast by the former US first lady who is a close friend of Harry and Meghan.
What is their podcast called?
In keeping with their Archewell Foundation, the name of which the couple said also inspired the name of their son, Archie, the Duke and Duchess have called this arm of their new business and charity, Archewell Audio.
When will Harry and Meghan’s first podcast air?
Any day now. The couple has said to expect their first broadcast over the Christmas season, with a “holiday special” that promises to “uplift audiences around the world.”
“[It will] feature stories of hope and compassion from inspirational guests in celebration of the New Year,” said Meghan.
What content will they be producing?
In the newly released trailer promoting the podcast, Harry and Meghan promise to show “different perspectives” in their interviews with “amazing people.”
“That’s what this project is all about, to bring forward different perspectives and voices that perhaps you haven't heard before and find our common ground,” said Harry. “So many people have been through so much pain this year, experiencing loss, a huge amount of uncertainty, but it feels worth acknowledging that 2020 has connected us in ways we could have never imagined, through endless acts of compassion and kindness.”
While Meghan added: “We’re talking to some amazing people. They’re going to share their memories that have really helped shape this past year which has been, as we know, a difficult one for everyone.”
Will Harry and Meghan be using their titles?
In the trailer, the pair introduce themselves: “Hi guys, I’m Harry and I’m Meghan”, so it appears both are choosing not to use their titles of Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
What does Archewell Audio stand for?
"One of the things my husband and I have always talked about is our passion for meeting people and hearing their stories," said the former Suits actress. "And no matter what the story, they usually offer an understanding of where someone else is coming from. And in some way, remind you of a story about yourself." Meghan also said the series of podcasts will be about "finding kindness and compassion, something we saw in so many places this year". Adding: "It will underlie everything you hear on Archewell Audio."
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