Spotify scraps Meghan Markle’s ‘Archetypes’ podcast season 2.

Spotify Cancels Meghan Markle’s Podcast “Archetypes” for Second Season

According to sources familiar with the matter, Spotify has decided not to renew Meghan Markle’s podcast “Archetypes” for a second season.

The podcast, which delves into historical and cultural stereotypes of women, will not be returning due to Spotify’s company-wide overhaul of its podcasting business.

The first season of the podcast, produced by Markle’s company Archewell Audio, co-founded with her husband Prince Harry, aired from August to November 2022.

The show’s Spotify description describes it as “a podcast where we investigate, dissect, and subvert the labels that try to hold women back.”

Notable guests on the show included Serena Williams discussing the “double standard” women face when labeled “ambitious,” Mariah Carey on the “complexities surrounding the ‘diva,'” and first lady of Canada Sophie Grégoire Trudeau.

Markle and Harry signed a $20 million deal with Spotify in December 2020, and they also have a multi-year deal with Netflix. However, sources say they have not met the benchmarks to receive the full payout from Spotify.

While Spotify never confirmed a second season, Markle hinted at the possibility in the final episode, saying, “We’re working on other ways to keep the conversation going.”

Reasons Behind the Cancellation

Sources attribute the cancellation to Spotify’s recent cutback in support for podcasts after announcing a 6% reduction in headcount.

Spotify has struggled to generate revenue from its podcast sector and is moving away from exclusive streaming deals. The company is expected to continue partnerships with its biggest podcasting names, such as Joe Rogan and Emma Chamberlain.

A representative for WME, the talent agency that recently hired Markle, stated that the podcast’s team members are “proud” of their work and that Meghan is developing more content for the Archetypes audience on another platform.

Challenges with Netflix

In addition to the Spotify cancellation, Markle and Prince Harry’s deal with Netflix has faced challenges. Their documentary series “Harry & Meghan” received mostly negative reviews, and Netflix canceled production of “Pearl,” an animated series created by Markle. Their next series, “The Heart of Invictus,” is set to release this summer.