In a candid interview with BBC News, Spotify CEO Daniel Ek sheds light on the termination of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s podcast venture. According to Ek, the decision not to renew the contract stemmed from the podcast’s failure to resonate with consumers, offering a rare glimpse into the inner workings of the streaming giant’s creative endeavors.
This revelation comes in the wake of another Spotify executive, Bill Simmons, expressing his candid thoughts on the matter. Simmons, Head of Podcast Innovation and Monetization, didn’t mince words, labeling the couple as “F—— grifters.”
Harry and Meghan’s podcast, featuring distinguished guests like Serena Williams and Mariah Carey, garnered attention for its high-profile lineup. Despite its star-studded roster, the podcast faced its share of challenges, culminating in its eventual discontinuation.
While Meghan sought to trademark the podcast’s name, “Archetypes,” her application was met with rejection, adding another layer to this chapter. The rejection cited “likelihood of confusion” with existing trademarks sharing the same name.
Despite this setback, Harry and Meghan remain active in the entertainment industry, holding a significant contract with Netflix. Their latest endeavor involves the film production rights to the best-selling romance novel, “Meet Me At The Lake,” a project that intriguingly parallels aspects of their own lives. This venture is the latest in their collaboration with Netflix, following their transition away from senior royal duties.
Their recent public outing at the Invictus Games showcased the couple’s enduring affection, reaffirming their presence in the public eye. This appearance marked a significant moment for the duo since Meghan’s Women of Vision Award in New York earlier this year.
Harry and Meghan’s journey in the entertainment world continues, leaving us to anticipate what they’ll bring next to the global stage.