According to reports in the US press on Thursday, the multi-million dollar deal between Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s media group and streaming giant Spotify is nearing completion. Since signing the deal in 2020, the couple has only produced one series under their podcast label, Archewell Audio, despite the deal being estimated to be worth $20 million.
The show titled “Archetypes” performed well on the platform’s charts in several markets, attracting a large number of listeners with its conversations with influential women. However, according to trade publication Variety, citing an anonymous source, Spotify was hoping to receive more content from the couple.
Henry and Meghan are reportedly looking for a new space for their content, according to Variety, citing another source. So far, there has been no immediate response from Spotify or Archewell to AFP’s requests for comment.
Henry, the youngest son of Charles III, married former TV star Meghan in 2018, and at the time they received positive media coverage that seemed set to bring the traditional monarchy into the 21st century. However, relations between the couple and the royal family deteriorated in the years that followed, with accusations of racism directed at Meghan. Henry and Meghan left behind their lives in the British royal family and moved to California, where they continue to question the institution. They have turned to a variety of media to make their voices heard, including an explosive autobiography by Henry, a documentary series on Netflix, and an interview with Oprah Winfrey.
Since their resignation from their royal duties, the couple has been looking for opportunities to generate income through media initiatives.