Netflix is branching out into the podcast world! The popular streaming service has teamed up with Spotify to offer a range of original podcasts to its viewers. This includes shows from Bill Simmons’ The Ringer, covering topics from sports to true crime.
While the exact details of the deal remain under wraps, both companies highlight that this partnership will enhance Netflix’s current offerings and reach new audiences. The plan is to add a mix of genres, starting with sports and culture podcasts, as well as true-crime stories.
Some highlights from the initial selection include “The Bill Simmons Podcast,” where Simmons interviews various personalities, and “The Rewatchables,” where hosts dissect classic movies. There’s also the chilling true-crime series “Serial Killers.” And this is just the start; more content will be added over time.
The podcasts will premiere on Netflix in the U.S. in early 2026, with other regions set to follow. This comes as many podcasters are shifting to video formats, creating more immersive experiences for their audiences. A recent study from Cumulus Media found that 72% of podcast listeners prefer shows that include video.
Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos expressed excitement about the move, mentioning in a recent earnings call that the lines between podcasts and talk shows are increasingly blurred. “We want to collaborate with creators across all media,” he said, noting the rising popularity of video podcasts.
The Ringer, founded in 2016 and acquired by Spotify in 2020 for around $250 million, produces many of the podcasts included in this deal. This partnership is seen as a significant step in the podcast landscape. Roman Wasenmüller, Spotify’s VP of podcasts, emphasized that the collaboration will enhance content discovery and offer creators new ways to reach audiences.
Lauren Smith from Netflix echoed this sentiment, stating that the partnership brings fresh voices to the platform and promises a more exciting entertainment lineup.
Here’s a look at some podcasts coming soon:
Sports:
- “The Bill Simmons Podcast”
- “The Zach Lowe Show”
- “The Ringer NFL Show”
Culture and Lifestyle:
- “The Rewatchables”
- “The Big Picture”
- “The Recipe Club”
True Crime:
- “Conspiracy Theories”
- “Serial Killers”
As this partnership unfolds, it’s clear that Netflix and Spotify are set to reshape the way we experience podcasts, blending audio and video content for a richer viewing experience.
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