In 2020, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry inked a $20 million, multi-project deal with Spotify that was supposed to last for years. But on June 15 after the former royals' Archewell Audio had produced just one season of an interview show called Archetypes - the couple announced in a joint statement with the digital streaming service that they "mutually agreed to part ways."
No cause was given for the split. However, just a day later, Spotify exec and mega podcaster Bill Simmons, who hadn't been involved in the initial deal, suggested he personally had plenty of reasons for wanting to sever ties and called Meghan and Harry "grifters." "It's like, What's your talent? Why are we listening to you?" Simmons said on his namesake show. "Nobody cares what you have to say about anything unless you talk about the royal family."
Understandably, their axing has rattled Meghan, 41, and Harry, 38. "It's an embarrassing setback," says an insider. "If they can be fired by Spotify, who's next? They feel like their brand and future endeavors are in jeopardy."
NEXT STEPS
This story is from the July 10, 2023 edition of Life & Style US.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the July 10, 2023 edition of Life & Style US.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Gabriel & Jacinda's MARRIAGE MILESTONE
Cheers to 20 years! Come Dec. 29, Gabriel Macht and his wife, Jacinda Barrett, will have enjoyed two decades of wedded bliss.
Natalie's READY TO DATE AGAIN
Natalie Portman has told pals that she's ready to meet someone new, reveals a source, after ex-husband Benjamin Millepied was seen kissing a mystery woman on the streets of Paris in October.
Hugh & Sutton TAKING IT SLOW
Their secret is out! Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster no longer need to hide their relationship, but instead of going public, the Broadway co-stars are pumping the brakes out of respect for their families.
Mariah's Guide to the Holidays
There's a reason Mariah Carey is called the Queen of Christmas!
Dad on a Mission! BRAD'S BATTLE TO WIN BACK HIS KIDS
Brad Pitt has admitted he was already in love with Mr. & Mrs. Smith co-star Angelina Jolie as he grappled with ending his marriage to Jennifer Aniston, 55, in 2005 following a long period of feeling adrift.
William & Kate CLOSER THAN EVER
Surviving a \"brutal\" year together has deepened Prince William and Princess Kate's connection
Gwen HOW TRUE LOVE SAVED ME
Gwen Stefani sings Blake Shelton's praises in a new interview with The Guardian.
Alexandra & Keanu READY TO WED!
Keanu Reeves and girlfriend Alexandra Grant are walking down the aisle next year, reveals a source, who says the duo are skipping a long engagement and heading straight to the altar.
Leo & Kate INSIDE THEIR 27-YEAR FRIENDSHIP
They're never letting introducing the movie.
Brianna to Ex Zach: KEEP YOUR MONEY!
\"The last year of my life has been the hardest year of my life, dealing with the abuse from this guy,\" said Bri.
