Spotify Follows Netflix’s Lead in Ending Partnership with Meghan Markle’s Podcast

Spotify has decided to walk away from a deal with Meghan Markle, mirroring Netflix's recent move to sever ties with the Duchess of Sussex.

Markle had been set to launch her podcast, “Archetypes,” on the music streaming platform this summer.

The podcast aimed to delve into the impact of stereotypes and labels on women in society, featuring conversations with women and experts from diverse backgrounds.

However, Angela Levin, Prince Harry's biographer, criticized the concept behind Markle's podcast as outdated, questioning its potential success.

Speaking on talk TV, Levin expressed skepticism about the project's relevance, suggesting that the focus on female stereotypes may no longer resonate with today's audience.

She noted that the current discourse has shifted towards gender issues rather than solely women's experiences.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex had signed a lucrative £25 million deal with Spotify in December 2020, shortly after stepping back from their royal duties.

Despite releasing a brief holiday message and snippets of content, Meghan and Harry have not delivered any full-length episodes on the platform yet.

Markle's podcast was anticipated to mark their first major project with Spotify.

The decision by Spotify to distance itself from Markle comes in the wake of Netflix canceling the Duchess's other project, “Pearl,” due to budget cuts.

The animated series, which was set to explore themes of female empowerment and historical learning, faced the axe as Netflix experienced a decline in subscribers and market value.

Nonetheless, Netflix affirmed its ongoing collaboration with the Sussexes' production company, Archewell Productions, on various upcoming ventures.

In a recent interview with GB News host Dan Wooten, Celia Walden, wife of Piers Morgan, criticized Meghan and Harry for prioritizing financial gain over ethical considerations.

Walden highlighted the couple's perceived lack of moral integrity, particularly when lucrative opportunities are involved.

She emphasized the notion that Markle's actions reflect a sense of entitlement and narcissism, pointing to the controversy surrounding her attempt to trademark certain terms.

Despite facing setbacks with their media projects, Meghan and Harry continue to navigate the complexities of public perception and commercial ventures.

The scrutiny surrounding their business endeavors underscores the challenges of balancing personal branding with societal expectations.

As the couple forges ahead with their creative pursuits, the evolving landscape of digital content creation poses both opportunities and obstacles for their future endeavors.

As the saga of Meghan Markle's media ventures unfolds, it remains to be seen how the Duchess and her husband will navigate the shifting terrain of entertainment and storytelling.

With their podcast plans on hold and previous projects facing cancellations, the Sussexes must adapt to the changing dynamics of the media industry.

Amidst criticisms and controversies, Meghan and Harry strive to carve out a distinct identity in the realm of content creation, grappling with the complexities of fame, fortune, and public perception.