Netflix to Stream Spotify Podcasts Starting in 2026
▼ Summary
– Netflix has partnered with Spotify to bring original video podcasts to its subscribers worldwide, starting with shows from Spotify Studios and The Ringer.
– The initial podcast lineup includes “The Bill Simmons Podcast,” “The Rewatchables,” and “Serial Killers,” with plans to expand across genres in the future.
– Video podcasts will launch on Netflix in the U.S. in early 2026, followed by other markets, as the format grows in popularity among audiences.
– Netflix’s co-CEO noted the increasing blur between podcasts and talk shows, emphasizing the company’s focus on working with great creators across media.
– The partnership aims to expand podcast discovery and distribution, offering creators new audiences and providing viewers with more diverse content choices.
Netflix is expanding its content horizons by integrating a curated selection of Spotify’s most popular video podcasts directly into its streaming platform, starting in the United States in early 2026. This strategic partnership will bring a diverse range of original audio shows from Spotify Studios and The Ringer into Netflix’s global ecosystem, offering subscribers new forms of entertainment that align with their viewing habits.
While the specific financial terms and duration of the licensing agreement remain confidential, the collaboration is designed to introduce sports, culture, lifestyle, and true-crime podcasts that enhance Netflix’s current programming. Both companies emphasized that this initiative will unlock wider distribution for the shows and help them connect with new audiences around the world.
Among the initial offerings are several standout programs from The Ringer. Subscribers can look forward to “The Bill Simmons Podcast,” which features in-depth interviews on sports and pop culture, and “The Rewatchables,” where Simmons and fellow hosts like Chris Ryan and Sean Fennessey analyze and debate hundreds of classic films. The true-crime series “Serial Killers” is also part of the launch lineup. According to official statements, this initial group of titles represents only the beginning, with plans to continuously add more podcasts across various genres in the future.
This move reflects a broader industry trend where traditionally audio-only podcasts are increasingly incorporating video to boost listener engagement. Spotify has actively encouraged creators to produce video versions of their episodes, and platforms like YouTube have become significant hubs for podcast distribution. A recent Cumulus Media study supports this shift, revealing that 72% of podcast listeners prefer shows that include video.
Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos addressed the company’s growing interest in podcasts during an earnings call earlier this year. He noted that the distinction between podcasts and traditional talk shows is becoming increasingly blurred. Sarandos expressed Netflix’s commitment to collaborating with top creators across all media formats that resonate with viewers, adding that as video podcasts gain popularity, it’s natural for some to find a home on Netflix.
A substantial portion of the podcasts included in this deal are produced by The Ringer. Founded by Bill Simmons in 2016, The Ringer was acquired by Spotify in 2020 for approximately $250 million and now boasts a network of more than 50 different shows.
Roman Wasenmüller, Spotify’s Vice President and Head of Podcasts, described the partnership as a new chapter for the medium. He highlighted how the collaboration with Netflix will enhance content discovery, help creators reach broader audiences, and give fans worldwide fresh opportunities to engage with beloved stories and discover unexpected favorites. This initiative opens up a significant new distribution channel and offers greater choice for creators.
Lauren Smith, Netflix’s Vice President of Content Licensing and Programming Strategy, echoed this sentiment. She pointed to the rising popularity of video podcasts and explained that the partnership ensures Netflix can deliver the complete video versions of these acclaimed shows. By incorporating content spanning pop culture, lifestyle, true crime, and sports, Netflix aims to introduce new voices and perspectives, making its entertainment catalog more dynamic and appealing than ever before.
A preliminary list of podcasts covered under the agreement has been released by both companies.
(Source: Variety)
