Prince Harry & Meghan’s exclusive Spotify deal revealed, blindsiding the palace!

Britain's Prince Harry (L) and his fiancee US actress Meghan Markle (R) visit Nechells Wellbeing Centre to join Coach Core apprentices taking part in a training masterclass in Birmingham, central England on March 8, 2018.  Prince Harry and Meghan Markle visited Birmingham to learn more about the work of two projects which support young people from the local community. The Coach Core apprenticeship scheme was designed by The Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry to train young people aged 16 - 24 with limited opportunities to become sports coaches and mentors within their communities.

I joked earlier about how the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will need to send a really big Christmas gift to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex this year, and it’s true. The Cambridges were on the ropes, facing bad press for their Covid tour and their obvious PR machinations with the kids, but now all of that is forgotten because the Sussexes want us to know what they’ve been up to this year. This week, Meghan made an appearance on the CNN Heroes event, she released information about her investment in Clevr Blends, and now this: Meghan and Harry have inked a deal with Spotify. My God.

Here they are, BLINDSIDING THE PALACE yet again. Royal eyebrows will be raised! Yet another round of breastbeating about their royal style and ducal titles! Why oh why??? Anyway, Harry and Meghan have really nice voices and they’re both very good at keeping things natural and conversational… Harry more than Meghan, if we’re being honest. Meghan is good at speeches. Harry is good at having a conversation. And I can’t wait to find out what their Spotify deal is worth.

Some additional information via Axios: the Sussexes are following in the Obamas’ footsteps – the Obamas also inked an exclusive deal with Spotify. I wonder if there will be some cross-podcast appearances now. What else? “Archewell Audio and Spotify’s Gimlet studio will release a holiday special later this month hosted by the pair that will feature ‘stories of hope and compassion from inspirational guests’ to welcome the new year.” They will also launch their first complete series from Archewell Audio next year. LMAO. So this is one of the things they were working on this year.

The Sussexes’ statement: “What we love about podcasting is that it reminds all of us to take a moment and to really listen, to connect to one another without distraction. With the challenges of 2020, there has never been a more important time to do so, because when we hear each other, and hear each other’s stories, we are reminded of how interconnected we all are.” Sounds like NPR programming, tbh.

(And we finally heard how THEY pronounce Archewell too. I had been pronouncing it Arkywell. They say “Arch-well.”)

Royal visit to Reprezent FM

Photos courtesy of Avalon Red, Backgrid.

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240 Responses to “Prince Harry & Meghan’s exclusive Spotify deal revealed, blindsiding the palace!”

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  1. Case says:

    Wow, I’d LOVE to listen to a podcast hosted by them.

  2. Becks1 says:

    YAAAAS!!!!! I love their stealth moves like this! the palace was definitely blindsided by this, LOLOL. And I am HERE FOR IT!!!

    Sorry for the all caps. This is very exciting!!!

    • Elizabeth Regina says:

      I was howling and yowling!! All the palaces and tabloids are going to be incandescent. I love how stealthily Harry and Meghan move. Upset about lattes? Well we will really give you something to be upset about. Ink those deals my loves, ink those deals.

      • BayTampaBay says:

        Do you think PwBT, aka Walmart Trainbridge, will undergo Spontaneous Human Combustion or will he retreat to Rose Gardening to recover his bearings?

      • Becks1 says:

        Well, at the very least, he’s going to be lighting a lot of lightbulbs, can you imagine the incandescence???

        (btw – question for CB/Kaiser – can we start doing an annual “word of the year” post or something? Incandescent has to be one of our words this year.)

      • BayTampaBay says:

        @Becks1 – and it needs to be done in a poll format so we can all vote!

      • Amy Too says:

        “How stealthily they move.” Right. There was no announcement that they are keen to learn more about podcasts, followed by stories about how they are very interested in possibly doing a podcast in the future, followed by an Instagram post of Kate wearing headphones that says “Duchess Kate recorded a podcast! Watch this space for an upcoming post with more details!” Followed by a post a week later that says “Duchess Kate will appear on the ‘It’s not Botox, It’s Royal Magic: perfect princess beauty tips’ podcast that will be released two months from now!” Followed by 2 months of behind the scenes articles about how regal and and special Kate was when she went to record her podcast and how it was such an honor to work with her, followed by a day-before post reminding everyone to listen, followed by a day-of post linking to the podcast, followed by exclusive pictures of Kate recording the podcast. Then, when you go listen to the podcast, Kate is on for about 90 seconds.

        This is just an announcement that’s like: Here’s how to subscribe to our own podcast that we produce and host, where we will be dropping a whole season’s worth of content very soon.

      • VS says:

        @Amy Too …….comment of the week!!!! I just love it……….you are also comparing people with actually skills to Kate. I have finally decided that she is just dumb that’s why she is so mediocre; it is more than lack of curiosity.

        I am not British but I wish people will just let her raise her kids in peace.

      • Q says:

        If she wants to “raise her kids in peace” she can always get a real job and leave taxpayers alone. Like it or not, being a member of the BRF entails work in the public eye (as silly as that may sound).
        Can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen.

    • Myra says:

      I love this so much. They’ve both got lovely voices and they’re so chill and cute.

      The palace was given a choice to be notified of their every move and they blew it. With this much eyebrow raising, they will soon need more botox.

      • windyriver says:

        Not only that, but the Cambridges have had months during which they could have created interesting content on Zoom. So many good ideas, just on here – as simple as Kate doing a weekly series reading children’s books. Heck, Meghan gave her the template for that when she released the video reading to Archie on his birthday, Kate could have copied that instead of Meghan’s clothes and decor.

        Just calling the bingo game was kind of cute. A one shot deal, as per usual. Do something that looks good in the moment, provides content for the media, and work as little as possible, rather than creating something to entertain your population suffering under a historic health crisis. (You could say the same about TQ, actually…)

        And now, that ship has sailed, they missed the boat, the chickens are coming home to roost, etc. I’ll bet someone is incandescent, but as usual, only themselves to blame.

      • RoyalBlue says:

        The voices!!! And sounding so comfortable and natural.

      • Myra says:

        Indeed, Meghan did leave a ‘how to duchess in modern times’ template. I think Kate will feel pressured to perform next year when Archewell is launched. For now she feels relaxed because Meghan is no longer around for comparison and no matter what she does or doesn’t do, she receives good press from the BM.

      • BayTampaBay says:

        Well Kmart Trainbridge better not rest on her laurels because the good press from the BM, especially if the Sussexes are highly successful with their Spotify and Netflix ventures, will not last The BM only win if the Sussexes fail. It may take some time but if the Sussexes succeed beyond all expectations, I predict the BM will start looking at the Trainbridges as lazy Doolittle failures.

      • Ladyjax says:

        @baytampabay, they won’t be seen as failures, because the BM will fall over themselves saying kmart and walmart can’t possibly do the same things as h&m because of protocol and duty and needing to stay as silent and still as possible in order to not be seen as partisan, controversial (impactful, useful,) etc. It would undo the monarchy if they gave too many cares or were proactive, dontcha know?

      • Yvette says:

        @Myra … “I love this so much. They’ve both got lovely voices and they’re so chill and cute.”

        Agreed, this is absolutely brilliant! And I disagree with Kaiser in that I think Meghan sounds just as natural and ‘conversational’ as Harry. 🙂

      • BayTampaBay says:

        @Ladyjax – I see your point but from all my reading this week of all the trash British Tabloids, the commentariat is getting sick and tired. They are sick and tired of financing these “Royal People” and sick & tired of one set of COVID Rules for the BRF and one set of COVID Rules for the peasants.

      • Ladyjax says:

        @baytampabay, I hope you’re right. I hope the disgust sticks this time around and isn’t washed away in a sea of distracting headlines and other foolishness. W&K deserve all the flack for their reckless, tactless, tone-deaf behavior.

  3. Bookie says:

    Good for them! I wish them every success.

    And I’m petty enough to also wish they outshine the Cambridges in every way. Living well is the best revenge, and the Sussexes are living their best lives right now.

    • MaryContrary says:

      Co-sign!

    • Elizabeth Regina says:

      They outshine the trainbridges by a ratio of 10 to one. And they’ve done it against the backdrop of negative press, familial non support and toxicity.

      • Ann says:

        The American press was none too kind to them either there, for a while. Not what I read, but what I see when I am checking out at the grocery store. Such vultures, some of them.

    • Indiesr says:

      Couldn’t agree with you more.

    • Amy says:

      The teaser also showcases the absolute charisma vacuum that is the Trainbridges (lol @Elizabeth Regina). Harry and Meg have great voices, great charm, and a PARTNERSHIP that comes through in just two minutes. It’s easy to see how they’re in this together and it’s equal. Love this. Can’t wait.

      • Becks1 says:

        Yes, that 2 minute teaser was so much more fun and enjoyable than anything the Cambridges do – compare it to the IG video, about kids and toys and a pantomime that should have been fun and light-hearted, and it just wasn’t. The Archewell podcast teaser was so much more interesting lol.

      • Elizabeth Regina says:

        Absolutely agree with you. That teaser had me howling. I knew it was game over for the trainbridges then. Would love H and M to video parts of their podcasts and plaster them all over Pinterest too. Their reach is going to be beyond!!

      • Ginger says:

        Those two have such insane chemistry. I can’t wait for this! I knew after Netflix this was going to happen. They will be amazing at this.

      • Pix says:

        @Ginger Yes! The CHEMISTRY is palpable. If I ever doubted the match – and i didn’t – hearing the first 30 seconds of that audio puts it to rest. These two are a on a soul level.

  4. mytwocents says:

    Love it! I’m so happy for them, such positive, amazing news to end out this mostly horrible year! and we haven’t even seen their Christmas card yet! So nice of them to let Will and Kate have their bland, brown moment, because they’ll be taking over the news the next days! and I too, can’t wait to see how much they’ll make on this deal, it’s just icing on the cake, really!

  5. MaryContrary says:

    They both have great voices-so yay. I have to say, there have been some people who while I like their writing content a lot, they have terrible, grating voices and I cannot sit through their podcasts or videos.

  6. Bibliomommy96 says:

    I loved listening to them speak

  7. megs283 says:

    They are just so, so smart. Once again they are showing the BRF how much of a loss this was. Look at all they’ve done this year while dealing with toxic media, toxic family, and a pandemic. Can you imagine the good they could have done with the power of the monarchy actually supporting them?

    • Elizabeth Regina says:

      Ditto!!!

    • Indiesr says:

      Exactly!!!

    • WintryMix says:

      Seriously! The skills and gifts that the royal family just chased away! The very things that could have revitalized and maybe even saved the monarchy. It’s mind-blowing.

    • Dee Kay says:

      Same thing happened with Diana. Instead of treasuring their most valuable representatives, the royal family just tries to tear them down over and over again for daring to outshine the heirs.

    • Yvette says:

      @Megs283 … “They are just so, so smart. Once again they are showing the BRF how much of a loss this was.”

      Agreed! I also think it’s smart of them to publicly announce their joint portfolio prior to their ‘1-year review’ in March. What I love most about this is that a majority of DM posters, along with the Royal family, thought the Sussexes would fall flat on their faces and have to crawl back to England with their tails between their legs and beg to regain their Senior roles (just like Edward and Sophie failed at several times). I

      Instead, the Sussexes have accomplished their goal of becoming financially independent, have established an International brand, and have a permanent home base of their own, obtained by their own means. LOL! This is the BEST ‘How you like me now?’ moment of 2020 for me. 🙂

    • Eating popcorn says:

      What I love is that they address themselves as Harry & Meghan, not once did they say, we are their Royal Highnesses Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan Duchess of Sussex – so, what can the BRF really complain about? hahahahaha….

  8. S808 says:

    YES!!! the first thing on wishlist from them was a podcast! I have Apple Music but just signed up for Spotify!

    • Lorelei says:

      @S80&: Do you need a paid subscription to Spotify in order to be able to get this? I listen to tons of podcasts, but have only ever used Apple Podcasts and occasionally Wondery, if something was only available there, but I’m a Spotify virgin!

      • S808 says:

        Nope, it’s completely free!

      • Lorelei says:

        Thank you! Off to sign up.

        ETA: the little pop-up told me that it’s free for a three-month trial period, so for those of us who really only want to hear Archewell’s series, we should probably wait until next month (or whenever the entire season drops) to sign up.

        But no matter what, I’m definitely going to listen to it. Thanks again 🙂

      • BayTampaBay says:

        @S808 – How do you access or subscribe to the Sussex podcast?

      • Becks1 says:

        I just signed up for Spotify, lol.

        @Lorelei -no, the podcast is completely free. There are other benefits to paying for Spotify (I think that’s how you create your own playlists, or skip ads or skip through songs) but you don’t have to subscribe to get the podcast.

        @Bay – search “Archewell audio” and it will pop up and just click “follow.”

      • (TheOG) Jan90067 says:

        I just signed up for a free account and added Archewell. Can’t wait to hear their first full podcast!

      • Nic919 says:

        Spotify premium means you don’t get commercials but you can sign on to Spotify for free and listen to the podcast.

      • Lorelei says:

        Thank you everyone! I can’t wait to listen 🎧

      • BayTampaBay says:

        @Becks1 – I do not do twitter and was trying to follow via the my computer like I do Celebitchy. I may have to wait for the first broadcast to subscribe to the podcast.

        Thanks for you help.

      • Becks1 says:

        @bay – I just downloaded the app on my phone, but there may be a desktop version?

  9. Snuffles says:

    Ahhhhh! So excited!

    They BOTH have mellifluous voices.

    • Noodle says:

      @snuffles. Great diction! I had never heard of ‘mellifluous’ and now I have. Thanks for expanding my vocabulary today!

  10. lemonylips says:

    I loved these news, although I don’t listen to podcasts but I freaking love Harry and Meghan just doing their thing and doing it so well! What are the royals gonna dig out to smear Spotify?

  11. Watson says:

    This makes me cackle. I cannot wait to see what crappy pr moves the Cambridge’s will do to step on this news. Lolol.

    • Elizabeth Regina says:

      We know the trainbridges have already tried the covid express train wreck tour.

    • Belli says:

      George, Charlotte and Louis are going to have a busy Christmas.

    • Liz version 700 says:

      Maybe the Trainbridges (love this name) will piss off Ireland and cause Northern Ireland to jump ship next? It is hard to top Scottish Independence lol

  12. Sofia says:

    I think we all predicted this but it’s still nice to see it actually happen. And I listened to a bit of the teaser (literally 10 seconds okay but still) and they sounded very cute. I had a massive grin on my face while listening

  13. Josie Bean says:

    They sound darling together. Good luck to them.

  14. GG says:

    This is exactly the type of thing that I expected from them once they chose to leave The Firm. It’s really lovely to see their ideas become reality. I would hope the palace was blind sided! They are not working royals, they do not have an office at Buckingham, and no one from The Firm on royal payroll works for H&M. I don’t think they’re obligated to discuss their business (or that matter personal) ventures with the staff of their relatives.

  15. JanetDR says:

    I’m downloading Spotify as I write!

  16. Mee says:

    I’m so proud of them for leaving the RF and finding their way. Netflix, Spotify and whatever else they have coming up. They sound great together, a true partnership both on the same page with the life they want to lead. I’m projecting what I’m looking for :-). Meghan needs to stop going down vocally on the last word of her sentence. Simple voice exercise fix.

    • lanne says:

      It may be an over-correct for going up on the last word of her sentence–the dreaded “uptalk” that’s the bane of so many women (I’ve tried to train myself out of uptalking and I might do this as well)

    • Chicka says:

      No she doesn’t @Lanne. She sounds just fine, and we all understood what she said. Trying too hard is what spoils authenticity. If you haven’t notice, they are authentic and their voices project that. It’s perfect the way it is.

  17. Elizabeth Regina says:

    Some people make money moves and also make money move. Harry and Megan I salute you.

  18. Bibi says:

    YAY!!! This is the best news! Can’t wait for the raised eyebrows tomorrow from the palace. These 2 are on the highway and not stopping. I am so happy for them. What will Willie and katie do now that they already pulled out their secret weapon this week: their kids… and this is stepping on their new thank you video
    ouuuuhh so much suspense

    • Babz says:

      Cue another photo in 3, 2, 1…

    • Nyro says:

      I love that they’re just doing whatever the flyin’ F they want to do and there’s nothing anyone in those ridiculous palaces can do about it. And the “tsk, tsk, tsk…how dare they…just wait until THE QUEEN hears about this…” bs threats and scare tactics just look more and more pathetic with every power move HM make.

  19. GrnieWnie says:

    There’s so many garbage podcasts. I’m thrilled about this. I spent 2017-2019 being asked to listen to absolute GARBAGE…Jordan Peterson, Joe Rogan, even that guy Sam Harris was not that great. Everyone’s a quasi-academic, everyone’s entertaining shit ideas that have no merit without any pushback. So good: let H&M wade into the cesspool and realign the balance in favour of positive, uplifting content.

  20. Ohpioneer says:

    DM about to explode with incandescent indignation in five….four…three….two…..one
    Readers call for repeal of Harry & Meghan’s birth certificates.
    Wikileaks strokes out. Keen counts buttons in desperate self soothing move.
    QEII is not delighted.

  21. minime says:

    They both have great voices and a really pleasant way of communicating… And I’m sure it will be something with real content. I’m super curious! Well done ☺️

  22. Jay says:

    How much you want to bet that the Daily Mail is going to quickly get up to speed on criticizing “vocal fry”? Or that Harry sounds too “California” now?

    I echo above posters on wishing for podcasts with the Obama’s, but the absolute best would be if Charles did it. Come on, he’s looking to improve his image, he’s concerned about his legacy, he can avoid tricky questions but give just enough to humanize…and maybe it’s kind of a power move? I know it’s not likely…

    • CC2 says:

      Yes, i agree. I hate giving the rest any attention butttt it maaaay be a win win if he gets Charles or even William on the podcast. But the family seems incapable of presenting a united front when it doesn’t involve a pedophile. Hm.

    • BayTampaBay says:

      Charles is good interview. He would make an excellent guest on any podcast even CeleBitchy or Tom & Lorenzo. I am sure Charles could do a podcast as I believe William did a podcast.

      Did not William do a podcast with some sports reporter where he made a racist comment about the pizza delivery guy? What a train wreck for Walmart Trainbridge.

    • booboocita says:

      I’m hoping they’ll interview all the folks that PwBT and Ofwilliam want desperately to impress and can’t. Greta Thunburg, Desmond Tutu, the Obamas, etc., etc. And all the while, PwBT can “interview” Shakira and other celebs while Ofwilliam obsessively makes chutney.

    • Becks1 says:

      I would not be surprised if Charles came onto the podcast, especially if it was an episode specifically aimed at promoting the Prince’s Trust or something (showcasing success stories or something.) Charles is dumb in some ways but he’s not stupid, he’s figured out the global reach of H&M and is going to want to harness that for himself at this point, if he can.

      • WintryMix says:

        You know, that’s a great idea. Charles would make an excellent podcast guest TBH. If he publicly aligns with Harry and Meghan by doing something like that though I imagine the civil war between Charles and William, being played out through media leaks, is only going to deepen.

      • Snuffles says:

        I totally agree. Charles would make an excellent guest. He may be a disappointment as a Dad when it comes to public support for Harry, but the man has a LOT of interesting projects that neatly align with Harry and Meghan’s brand. Sustainable farming, fashion, the Prince’s Trust.

        If he and his people have ANY PR savvy, he would team up with Harry and Meghan on a few things. It would improve his image IMMENSELY. And I feel like he would love to, but he’s too worried about pissy pant Wills throwing another “incandescent with rage!” fit.

      • JT says:

        Charles would be a good guest but I hope they don’t have him on, at least for now. He’s been silent all of this time and most likely contributed to the smear campaign along with others. H&M could’ve benefited him when they were apart of the firm, (he got major kudos for walking Meghan down the aisle) and yet he did nothing. He allowed rumors to float that he was still financially supporting them even though it was untrue. Hell, he did more to support prince Andrew by going to church with him last year than he ever has for H&M. He should not get to bask in their success now when he had nothing to do with it and most likely hindered their success. Let him watch from afar while their star rises for awhile.

      • Chicka says:

        I really don’t understand any of you saying Harry should have his dad on his podcast. Not a t all. His father has done NOTHING to protect Harry, Meghan, or Archie, nor to clear the negative air in Britain about them at all. Not even the bare minimum. In fact, palace employees continue to use the press against Harry and Meghan, including denigrating their royal status, even tho they don’t use theM. Have you all forgotten how Netflix was just used against them bc of Charlie’s complaints? Please tell me why in the fuck Should Harry or Meghan continue to allow themselves to be used by the hideous Windsors in any capacity? At times I feel like some of the commentariat here are from people who really don’t give a damn about Meghan and Harry’s well-being at all, what they really cared about is the royal family As a production for their entertainment, and their ability to keep afloat and modernize so they can continue following them and their pageantry. It’s sick. Fuck Charles. He’d be bad for Meghan and Harry’s brand. Period.

        He can go start his own thing bc heavens knows he’s furious he continues to be overshadowed by his children. I’m so confused by you all suggesting he should be sought after and engaged. Like where have you all been the last few years? LAST MONTH EVEN?! 😒

      • Becks1 says:

        @JT – IF they were to have him on, I do not think he would be one of the first guests. I think he would go on once the podcast was very well established.

        @Chicka – because its possible that Harry feels differently about his father than royal watchers feel about him?

        I’m not touching the rest of your incredibly rude rant, because you’re making some really big leaps in your mind that quite frankly are insulting and unhinged.

        Well, I’ll touch this one thing – suggesting that Charles might be on the podcast does not mean he would be “sought after.” Again, you’re making some insane leaps.

      • BayTampaBay says:

        @Chicka – Please let me make a few comments.

        I 100% understand your post. However, there are a couple of things that I do not know:

        1. The rumor was that Charles & Harry got along but Charles & William did not. I do not know if this is true or if the British Tabloid Media just tried to change the narrative to hurt Harry and embiggen the Walmart Trainbridge.

        2. Sussex vs. Netflix vs The Crown vs Charles; I do not know how Charles really feels about the Sussex Netflix deal. What I do know is that trying to blame and/or associate Charles’ displeasure with The Crown on the Sussex Netflix deal is just the British Tabloid Media inventing a narrative that sells click$ for revenue$.

        3. I know nothing about Charles’ true relationship with Meghan. I only know what the tabloids try to infer with a false narrative.

        What I do know or truly believe:

        1. If Charles was a guest on the Sussexes podcast, it would send Piers Morgan into epileptic fits & seizures and would knock all the female Royal Reporters (Sarah Vine, Penny Junor, Katie Nicholl and Lady Colin Campbell) off their chairs while simultaneously pulling their knickers off too. I, for one, would gladly subscribe to Spotify to witness this event.

        2. I believe Charles is afraid of attacking the British media for fear they will turn on Camilla.

        3. I believe Charles is afraid of William for fear he will, with help of the tabloids, attack Camilla.

        4. I believe Charles has no fears the Sussexes will attack Camilla.

      • Lorelei says:

        @Becks and Bay: agree with you both.

        Bay: the only thing I would add is that I do think that Charles is terrified of William, but not only because of the Camilla factor — moreso because he’s afraid of William withholding access to the kids, spending more time with the Middletons (we already know Charles has never been thrilled with how close William is to them, especially Carole), and just generally leaking random negative stories about Charles. Charles also knows that any time William talks about Diana or participates in any sort of event associated with her, it drags everything up again, and that William can (please let me preface this by saying that I absolutely hate this expression and try to never use it, but it’s apt in this case) play the Diana card at any time, so Charles doesn’t want to rock the boat.

        (The Queen seems scared of William too — it seems like no one will ever tell him “no” to anything, and I don’t understand why. What does the Queen have to lose at this point by putting him in his place? Anyway sorry for this little tangent!)

      • BnLurkN4eva says:

        @Chica, I agree completely with you. H/M should not have Charles or anyone from that family on their podcast, or participating in anything they do. Let H/M do what they do and reap all the successes from all that they do going forward. They have been maligned and harassed for the past going on 4 years and much of it, I believe was at the instigating of that family. They should in no way benefit from anything H/M does in the future and in fact the less H/M have to do with the royals the less the trolls can attach the notion that they are benefiting from royal connections. These two have been off the reservation for more than a year now and are doing great on their own. They are creating their own brands, rising above the continuous noise, so having anyone from that family attached to anything they do would be backsliding imo.

        Like you, @Chica I can’t for the life of me understand why any supporter of H/M would want them in anyway associated with anyone from that family. Don’t they know that would just end up causing any success H/M gain to be immediately transferred to the royals of England? Is that what H/M fans wants? Have you all not been paying attention to know how this game works by now?

      • Sofia says:

        @Becks and @Bay: Agreed with you both.

        However, Charles appearing will send a very public message that William will receive which will lead to things mentioned in @Lorelei’s comment. Which is exactly why Charles won’t do it because he doesn’t want to rock the boat and will do anything to protect his and Camilla’s image as best he can

      • JT says:

        @Becks1 it’s why I added the caveat of not right now. I think the Sussexes need to let the RF sweat awhile before they even try to do anything like guesting on their podcast or even going to trooping. H&M need to let the royals feel the absence for much longer and miss what they brought to the table. Knowing this family they might not ever learn a lesson, but Harry and Meghan need to show them who has the power now. Charles and co. don’t deserve to benefit just yet in my opinion.

      • BayTampaBay says:

        “(The Queen seems scared of William too — it seems like no one will ever tell him “no” to anything, and I don’t understand why. What does the Queen have to lose at this point by putting him in his place?)”

        @Lorelei – I think that QEII is fully aware of what Walmart Trainbridge is capable of. If Walmart Trainbridge cannot have his way 100%, he will burn everything down to the grown and he can do it as he knows where all the bodies are buried.

        Do not forget that for the15 years Kate got horrendous press (if she deserved it is another discussion entirely) , Walmart seemed to do absolutely nothing to stand up for her.

        @BnLurkN4eva – The only reason I suggested Charles as guest (for Sussex podcast or any podcast) is because he is an interesting interview with something real to talk about. If I were Harry and the opportunity came up, I cannot say what I would do.

      • Lorelei says:

        @Bay: what do you mean by “burning everything to the ground?” (I’m not being argumentative, just trying to think it through!)

        We know William is vindictive, but all he has is his status & title, so while he can be a complete asshole to people, he needs to be somewhat careful. His entire life depends on the monarchy continuing (and I’m sure in his mind, with the same amount of taxpayer £). I don’t doubt he would leak stuff about his father or Andrew, but they’ve probably got a lot on him as well. Charles most likely knows all about Rose, wouldn’t you think?

        I don’t know…it will be interesting to see how it all plays out. I just love that they’re all stuck back there in their little pissing matches with each other while Harry and Meghan are doing so fabulously on their own, and they are clearly so much happier and more relaxed.

      • Nyro says:

        I don’t mind Charles too much but I really don’t want to see any of them on an Archewell production for at least three or four years. They don’t deserve it. But if Baldy ever decided he wanted to get rid of Doormat, I’d love for him to come on the show and have a “come to Jesus” moment with Harry and Meghan, where they can all blame Kate and Pimp Mama Carole for the breakdown of the brothers’ relationship and the four year smear campaign against Meghan.

    • Pamuk says:

      Imagine if harry got petty betty on, omg I’d die laughing. But let’s hope not, H and M should stay clear of the Windsor clan imo, association with them would be damaging.

  23. Eleonor says:

    I am really happy for them!
    As I have said in another post: they will be rich as hell.
    On the other side: I don’t like spotify service, because their politics to the artists to me is unfair.

  24. L4frimaire says:

    Everyone was joking about them having a Spotify deal and now they do. Where do they have the time and energy. They really are done with that royal life and not looking back. Between this and Netflix, they have a solid media stake and are no longer just the story, but will help shape the stories. They are now part of the media, not just subject to it. Those couriers should have been nicer because these are people who have a voice out there now, we’ll hear from them directly and they are not going anywhere.

    • booboocita says:

      I imagine they have a lot more time on their hands now that they don’t have to present plaques, cut ribbons, and walk around town shaking hands at events. The Keenbridges wanted that activity all to themselves, and now they’ve got it. Personally, I’d rather do some good in the world.

  25. OriginalLala says:

    I love a good podcast! I’ve been really enjoying “the bald and the beautiful” hosted by drag queens Trixie Mattel and Katya. It’s raw, hilarious, and just fun.

  26. Silent Star says:

    Wonderful! I love the intro. They have great voices and I really love the fact that they genuinely reach out to real people and make meaningful connections with their work.

    I’ve been looking for a new podcast about humanity and this sounds right up my alley.

    …and I can’t wait to deconstruct all the anti-Sussex media about this with you guys over the next few days. It’s going to be very entertaining! Lol

  27. Moxylady says:

    Omg I love hearing them talk

  28. Moxylady says:

    This sounds like something I would listen to with my kids. Stories to broaden their understanding of the world and to deepen their sense of compassion.

  29. Nina Simone says:

    So impressive. So inspiring! Let this be a lesson to people- be willing to leave a environments that don’t serve or value you. There’s so much waiting for you out there if you know your worth and what you have to offer. Wow! I’m so amazed with H&M. being financial independent will be an understatement in the next 5 years- they will be powerful MEDIA moguls with supportive friends in the industry, influential thought leaders and philanthropists. And the Cambridges will continue to seethe and wonder why fetch doesn’t happen to them. Oh well. H&M are making both power and money moves. I’m so happy for them

    I’m doubly inspired. I left a very toxic, racist and disempowering job this year, after months of abuse. I left right after the pandemic started and yes I was nervous and worried I’d find something- but I was also convicted in myself and what I had to offer. Luckily I found something within a month and it’s the most nurturing work space I’ve ever been in. The complete opposite of my former. Where as a black woman, my voice is respected (I recognize how many people haven’t been this fortunate this year, so I humbly recognize myself and my courage cos it took a lot to leave – and yes Meghan inspired me to)

    • lanne says:

      Yay Nina Simone!! I’m glad you’re in a better place. You don’t need to apologize for the success you have EARNED–many people take solace and gain strength from tales of success when they are down–it’s a great way to realize that fortunes can rise again.

    • Marie55 says:

      That’s amazing and I’m so happy for you @ninasimone🎉 H&Ms story, despite seemingly being so removed from my reality, also deeply resonates with me. I left a toxic job in May and separated from a toxic family situation about five years ago exactly. Seeing H&M make these money moves…I just find myself cheering them on and feeling even more hopeful regarding my own situation. Can’t wait for their podcast and to witness their continued thriving!

    • Elizabeth Regina says:

      Very very happy for you. You deserve every blessingxx

    • Lola_Lola says:

      @Nina Simone good for you! That took so much courage! Wishing you the best at your new job.

    • Liz version 700 says:

      Nina Simone that is awesome! Congrats on knowing your worth!

    • Brave move Ms. Simone. Very happy for you 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 Glad to hear you landed on your feet in a better place. Is your “name” based on your love of Nina Simone? I love her music. What a wonder she was. On another note, check out Meghan and Harry TIME 100 podcast, where they each interviewed 2 people. I didn’t think I could sit through the whole thing, but conversations were relaxed, informative, and highly educational. If this is an example of how they will be on Spotify (minus the visual), then the Sussexes are going to knock it out of the park.

      • Nina Simone says:

        @lowcountrylady- thanks! And yep it is my small way of paying homage to the great Nina Simone. Love her music and what she embodied. She’s another example of a woman who knew her worth and strove to live in it. I just wish she lived in a different time. But that’s another discussion….

    • sunny says:

      Congrats Nina! Also well-said- there is such power in leaving environments that don’t serve you.

      This is fantastic news for them! Also lol to the palace.

    • Mindy_Dopple says:

      Congrats Nina!! Life begins at the end of your comfort zone – or at least that’s what I try to tell myself to inspire courageous moves like yours! All the best wishes to you!

      • ravynrobyn says:

        @ MINDY_DOPPLE-“Life begins at the end of your comfort zone”-crying & inspired. Writing this in the front of my new planner!

        Thanks 🤗💕

    • L4frimaire says:

      @NinaSimone so glad you were able to get out of a bad situation and move on into a better one. Really glad to hear you are so much better off. I think the Sussexes are starting to see so many possibilities now. To me it seems breakneck but they are also trying to link and tie everything together. It will eventually make sense. I was reading some of feedback relating to FKA Twigs and one commentator said this “If you are in an abusive situation, just know, you likely will never be able to heal or change the person that is hurting you. But you can always save yourself.”.
      This applies to so many difficult and abusive situations and thought about the Sussexes, particularly Meghan, when I read it. There is nothing they could have done within the royal family structure to satisfy their detractors and attackers. Not a damn thing, so they left. Maybe it’s selfish but bad work experiences and day to day hostilities are traumatic and debilitating. They saved themselves and decided to thrive, nor hide. They’ve had setbacks, personal tragedy with the miscarriage and continued hostility and threats. They aren’t going back and will never consent to be f*cked with again.

  30. What’s eating you says:

    This is amazing! I’m sure that a certain bald prince is running through KP incandescent with rage!

    • Kalana says:

      Nah, he’s at Houghton Hall. But still running through the corridors howling with incandescent rage.

  31. Sunday says:

    Yay!! I know the actual news here is the podcast deal, but I’m so glad we finally got confirmation on the pronunciation of Archewell! So much better than arkie-well (although I’m sure this will give the british press something else to complain about – they even skirt traditional pronunciation, how AWFUL lol).

    The best part about this is that they have now effectively cut out the media entirely from their communications – they can now speak directly to millions and millions of people, in their own words, thus making it even harder for the british press to twist and spin everything they say. Check and mate!

  32. MA says:

    Anyone have an idea how much Spotify deals range? Not as much as Netflix of course but I’m sure they’re making a pretty penny

    • Elizabeth Regina says:

      Could potentially be a lot more as many haters will rage listen and rage tweet. And then listen some more to try and ‘catch’ them out.

    • See post up thread. It’s free if you go about it as she recommends.

    • L4frimaire says:

      No idea but I’m sure it’s very lucrative. One of my favorite podcasts moved over to Spotify exclusively and were making jokes about capitalism and getting that money. Do they disclose their numbers? The Joe Rogan ( toxic man) deal was purported to be $100 million, while the “ My favorite murder” 2year deal was $10 million. Couldn’t find numbers for Michelle Obama or Jemele Hill, some others. Mostly listen to Stitcher for podcasts. At the time of signing Rogan, Spotify’s market cap was valued at $35billion. Got these numbers from WSJ.

      • Becks1 says:

        Bill Simmons sold his podcast to Spotify for 200 million. I think there is talk that Dan Le Batard may go there since he’s leaving ESPN (my husband listens to him constantly, ugh). And I think Spotify just signed someone else big but I cant remember. So yeah, they have the money and while I doubt this deal for H&M will be as big as their Netflix deal, I imagine its still 8 figures and I also imagine it may end up being more lucrative, because I’m assuming podcasts are cheaper to produce than television shows?

      • Lanie says:

        Omg, is it Rod and Karen of The Black Guy Who Tips?

      • L4frimaire says:

        @Lanie, yes! I love Rod and Karen and have listened to them for years. Their LoveCraft Country recaps were the best. Getting that money with that capitalism, lol!

      • MA says:

        @ L4frimaire Wow if Joe Rogan got 100 million, it’s very plausible the Sussexes got around that or more. Good for them!

  33. Osty says:

    AGAIN 😀😀😀😀😀

  34. Valiantly Varnished says:

    As Meghan said Harry has a podcast voice! I love it! So excited for this podcast and so proud of them.

  35. tee says:

    i can’t really get into podcasts, but they have great voices and i wish it all the success! it is remarkable what they’ve accomplished over the last several months. wow. i can only imagine how pissed the palaces are lmao

    • Kcat says:

      I didn’t get into podcasts until I started listening to them instead of music while dog walking. My hour flies by now!

    • L4frimaire says:

      I am hooked in them. I’m a podcast junkie. I mostly listen to politics like the Daily and Pod save America, history podcasts and food/cooking podcasts like Sporkful or Splendid Table. Celebitchy, the Read, and Keep It are my only gossip/showbiz ones. Also listen to recaps of shows like Handmaids Tale, Lovecraft Country or Insecure when those are in play. Don’t listen to Royal podcasts at all but dip into a few Sussex squad podcasts sometimes. I also like a few science ones like Science Vs. and Ologies. Used to also listen to a lot of cruise and travel podcasts before COVID but gave up on those for now..

      • BayTampaBay says:

        Do you like MilkStreet?

      • L4frimaire says:

        @BayTampa, I’ve listened to it a few times. It’s not in my regular rotation but I like Christopher Kimball. They have good topics and I always tune into their Thanksgiving podcasts.

      • BeanieBean says:

        I’m late to this, but if you like history podcasts try the History Chicks and the Bowery Boys; the former is all about women & the latter is all about NYC. Both are terrific.

  36. Elle says:

    so exciting!

    the only way willileaks can top this is if he personally flies the space x rocket to mars, fuelled by his incandescent rage

  37. CC2 says:

    Oh gosh they sound adorable. Stark contrast to the Cambridges poem thing they just did.

    • L4frimaire says:

      The Cambridge’s did a thing?

      • CC2 says:

        They recited quite a cringey Christmas poem over clips of the pantomime and the work of others. It’s one of those things where it’s just kinda stupid regardless of who recites it

  38. mtec says:

    It was so cute how they started the podcast basically flirting, man you can tell how good their chemistry is even just from audio haha

  39. Meghan and Harry have that sexy banter at the beginning of the audio. Love it!

  40. Liz version 700 says:

    I am so proud and impressed with their moxie. They did exactly what they said they were going to do. Despite the efforts of so many powerful forces trying to keep them down and groveling. Live well H&M live well and keep smiling and ignoring the incandescent rage across the pond. All these years they called Harry stupid, I would say he and Meghan have outsmarted everyone and are doing fine!

  41. L4frimaire says:

    I think the word podcasts, plural was use, which means they will not only be hosting but also producing others podcasts. They knew the impact of this news. All this was done under Covid restrictions and lockdowns, mostly from their home. These two have some big brass balls for real.

    • Nic919 says:

      It might be like Crooked Media, which started with Pod Save America and then other related podcasts eventually popped up.

  42. Reece says:

    She’s right. It does sound better with his accent. lol

    That’s all I got. Of course, I’m going to listen to this.

  43. Nina says:

    The Palace and the British media will flip out now but it will be a lot more difficult once the podcast is live. Right now, it’s just about H & M inking a DEAL but when there are actual episodes, it will be trickier to criticize them without seeming like they are also speaking poorly about the people H & M highlight. Can’t you just see it now?

    H & M: In 2020, Jane Doe lost her entire family to Covid but still devoted herself to helping her community by paying the electric and grocery bills for her struggling neighbors.

    Palace & British media: HOW DARE THEY!!!

    I mean, they’ll still do it. It will just be a lot harder. Haha!

  44. MsIam says:

    Duke and Duchess of Success! Which one of those sad sack British writers wrote that Harry and Meghan are “floundering “ and “Harry misses hunting in the countryside and is soooo unhappy!” Anna Somebody-or-other or Ingrid Whatsherface? Booya!

  45. lanne says:

    The RF needs to fire all their courtiers and hire new ones. Young, “woke” diverse courtiers who can create a narrative about the “royal family in the 21st century.”

    Everything Harry and Meghan are doing is a fricking no-brainer. Why hasn’t Kate had a podcast? If her “project” was supposed to be early years, she could have had a podcast, or a web series, where she highlights a different early childhood initiative once a month, publicizing pilot projects, having conversations with stakeholders (parents, teachers, doctors, psychologists, nutritionists). She could have visited innovative pre school programs, highlighted specific research. I came up with this idea in all of 5 minutes. She has had 10 YEARS and has done nothing but 1 generic survey that any of us could have made in all of 3 minutes. And what has she done with the survey? What are her projects goals? No one knows.

    Years ago, the Cambridges said they wanted to be project based and do less of the meet and greet style of royaling. Fine, but where are the projects? 10 years and counting…

    The “lesser” royals have outshined the “greater royals”, and all of the Sussexes work from this point forward will make that abundantly clear to all but the most virulent of the racists. If this is Charles’ show now, and if he actually cares about the monarchy surviving him, he needs to realize that they need to update their brand. Create a story that will play well in 2020, not 1920. No one outside their own households gives a shit about their petty jealousies, and if they are counting on inertia to keep them going, well, good luck. They would be great, easy scapegoats for a Brexit ravaged UK, especially after the queen dies. The clock very well may be ticking on the royals in the Uk, or in England and Wales.

    • Keen Kate says:

      Darling, thanks for all the ideas *scribbles them down*
      William and I will save the kiddies!

    • Becks1 says:

      “where are the projects” she asks.

      Um, the garden? hello??

    • MA says:

      Lanne that’s not fair…. don’t you remember when Kate invented the log bench

    • Sofia says:

      “ She has had 10 YEARS and has done nothing but 1 generic survey that any of us could have made in all of 3 minutes. And what has she done with the survey?”

      Now that I think about it: what exactly is her endgame with early years? What is she trying to do with it? Does she want more funding to go to them? Does she want more policies to help EY providers? She’s “raising awareness” but what is that awareness leading to? Early Years are important, people know that and Kate has highlighted that but also, what’s the next step if there is one? Does she plan to just “raise awareness” about it forever?

      • Lady D says:

        Someone here pointed out that she has been ‘learning about the early years’ for 8-9 years now. She has literally had the time to get a doctorate in the subject, and so far we’ve been given a five question survey.

      • ArtHistorian says:

        She wants to look like she’s working on something – she’s not actually aiming to do good. It is all about her PR. That is the Cambridge MO, always has been and always will be.

    • ABritGuest says:

      @Lanne these are really excellent ideas. And also a way for Kate to ‘shine a light’ on early years without getting political.

      Philip, Charles did documentaries, books etc. I think I read that Philip hosted/narrated a nature series & now Charles is curating content for an environment digital platform. In some ways Harry is just following in their more creative footsteps and until Earth Shot, William was more of the outlier.

      Whilst I’m sure the rota and royalists will claim duty and being ‘restricted’ means the Cambridges can’t do more with their roles, I can sort of see the rota pressing the Cambridges to emulate the Sussexes so they have more content and they can keep the Sussex & Cambridge rivalry going in the press. I think Kate knows this and that’s why that Tatler article talked about her feeling stressed. Interesting times.

  46. Gina says:

    They sound so sexy together! And I like how they introduce themselves – Meghan and Harry. That’s their brand!

  47. nuks says:

    I love how they made the latte announcement first and drew all the fire from the incandescents, then released the real bomb today. That is such fun PsyOps.

  48. Che says:

    Make sure you follow!

  49. Cel2495 says:

    Hahaha ! The BM and RF will be big mad and blindsided! I am here for that. Keep winning H & M ….F * *k them racist a**holes ( NYC style and accent)

  50. Bettyrose says:

    I bet their audio content will pair nicely with an oat milk latte.

  51. Flying Fish says:

    Awesome….someone is going to be incandescent with rage.
    I love it.
    Meghan and Harry are keeping it moving and thriving.

  52. Izzy says:

    Coming soon: KP announces new Cambridge podcast… on gardening.

  53. Babz says:

    The Ninja Sussexes strike again! You know this has been in development for awhile as the deal was hammered out. It took time to record the teaser. And then bam! out of nowhere comes the announcement – from them! And this entire time, not one word of it got out, just like the Netflix deal. These two are masters at the stealth moves, whether they be business deals or actually, physically moving houses and countries. KP needs to just throw in the towel. They have been bested by the best, and there’s no catching up with them.

    • windyriver says:

      They are so good at keeping things quiet. But it’s also about a difference in approach.

      For the Sussexes, the work is the focus; they do as much PR as and when needed to support the work. For the Cambridges, the opposite is true. The PR itself is the focus, and they do as much (or as little) work as is needed to support the PR. Remember Kate’s garden project last year? How many PR pieces did they get out of that log seat, or whatever?

      • That’s a very interesting comment WindyRiver. The difference in Sussexes and Cambridges being between the work creating the PR versus the PR taking the place of the work. Very astute.

  54. Mindy_Dopple says:

    Their little humming and play singing towards the end, Megan starts and then Harry joins. It’s so cute! They are so easy with each other and you can tell they had a smile on their faces and a little laughter behind it. I know it’s a tiny thing to focus on but it warmed my heart. Already signed up and all this hub bub about the latte pouches made me think about ordering some but I’m not much of a latte person anyways so I’ll wait.

    • Sigmund says:

      YES. The little humming and singing was so freaking cute, as well as Meg’s comment about how Harry has a “podcast voice”. You can tell they love each other, and they are so fun to listen to. Every time I see or hear them, I’m so glad they left the toxic environment of the RF behind them so they can live their lives. Can’t wait to listen to the podcast.

  55. Harper says:

    2020 going out with a bang for the Sussexes. And we are getting a holiday podcast, so that should be out by next week, don’t you think? Harry has a swoon-worthy voice and Meghan is so playful with him. By the time that lame one-year review rolls around, do you think there will be anyone left in the Firm that will bother to make an agenda for the review? What is there to say?

  56. Amelie says:

    I would love to be a fly on the wall in the Cambridge household right now. When they started their exile Meghan campaign from the BRF, they never imagined Harry would go along with her. And I doubt they ever thought that Meghan and Harry would start a media empire with the Netflix deal. Now they’ve got podcast programming with Spotify, what’s next? Their own TV network? A book deal?? They underestimated just how excited people in the US would be to work with them and that they’d be welcome with open arms in California.

    I listened to the clip and I am probably going to get a free Spotify account so I can listen to their programming. I listen to podcasts a lot when I walk around the neighborhood (it’s not very busy here and there aren’t many people out and about when I’m walking) so adding this to the list. They are so cute together as they talk about their upcoming projects, they’ve got some quality ASMR voices there (another venture they could branch out into on Youtube lol). And Meghan is so funny when she asks him to pronounce Archewell Audio (I was always pronouncing Archewell the right way, not this Arkywell nonsense), that was some cute light flirting as Harry seems bemused by her request. Thank you to Meghan for encouraging her husband to share his voice with the world, I would listen to Harry read from the phone book.

  57. Keen Kate says:

    But what about me? I went to the panto, recited a poem, had a train tour, did a questionnaire, did a questionnaire tour, made some calls, judged a photo competition put together by others, packed some boxes in my finest clothes, shopped and I zoomed!! 🙁

    I’m phoning up the BBC right now and demanding a multi-platform deal.

    • Sofia says:

      According to the Daily Mail, apparently the Cambridges are trademarking Earthshot for TV shows, podcasts and the like.

      Buuuuuut it could also be a business thing where they trademark but not necessarily use like how they trademarked their names. But it coming out the same day a Spotify deal for the Sussexes is announced is funny lol

    • And don’t forget — Keen Kate —- you copied that sentence out in long hand, too! Points for that. It should definitely count as its’ own work event.

    • Lizzie says:

      You have achieved the only goal of your life, you have Bauldy! Enjoy.

  58. rawiya says:

    I’m going to be petty: but the BRF really thought. They thought. Just like they didn’t expect Harry leave with Meghan, they never expected anyyyyy of this. They’ve been so wrapped up in Meghan being a Z-list Hollywood actress (an oxymoron, but okay), that they thought she’d be banging at studio doors trying to get cast in a movie or something.

    They didn’t think about Netflix production deals. They didn’t think about Spotify audio deals. They thought a bunch of ish…. but didn’t think about anything that would actually matter.

    Whoooo. Could you imagine had Betty and Chuck and wee Willy Wonka allowed Harry and Meghan to do the 50/50 they originally wanted? Maybe we would have had the podcast? Maybe we would have just had the Archwell Foundation because they would have been too busy with Commonwealth stuff.

    Instead, those three said no, so my peeps have time to make that dough!! I love it.

  59. BnLurkN4eva says:

    This is so great and I can’t wait for all the content they will produce. Love their voices, but that’s not new, Harry’s is sexy and Meghan’s is soothing – perfect. I really believe they are going to do great things and transcend their start and I am so here to go with them on their journey. Go H/M, do what you do and inspire others to be their best.

  60. L4frimaire says:

    I hope you guys recap and disseminates all the frothing over there because I’m sure they are probably losing their collective minds in the press. You know the RRs will be bleating on about upholding Her Majesty’s value and how dare they make money and not be quiet and burrow away into a hole. Lol, this is the response to a few years of bullsh*t, harassment and petty nastiness like the recent wreath incident. They will release a wave of news and initiatives,and they’ll just have to deal with it over there. When they said they’d be independent, that they were going to work, they really, really meant it and then some.

    • BayTampaBay says:

      I have already been over the Daily Mail and spent an hour in the comment section. I would have to describe it as much like a Trump War Zone were all the commentators, like the GOP, are doing nothing but posting old stale-shit lies from a year ago, talking about money owed by the Sussexes to the British Taxpayer and rubbing their hands together waiting on the one-year review in March 2021.

      However, there are more than the usual number of sane people like myself who just keep posting that the Sussexes are not coming back so you haters have nothing to worry about.

      • L4frimaire says:

        You must have nerves of steel to be wading into that cesspool of hate. Thanks for the recon.😄 Their readers are forever stuck in their own mud.

  61. ElleE says:

    From the Guardian:

    “As part of their agreement with Buckingham Palace when they announced they were stepping down as working royals, the couple have agreed not to involve themselves in any business ventures that could reflect badly on or compromise the monarchy.”

    So the Queen knew that there would be “business ventures” yet there was no requirement that it would be BP that would be the judge of whether or not a “business venture” met this criteria? The agreement really was, “use your best judgment, no need to run anything by us first!”?

    This…isn’t adding up?

    • Feeshalori says:

      Deleted

    • Kalana says:

      The Palace was desperate to look like they were in control of everything hence the one year review that the Sussexes did not want and I think that’s the message they put out to the press.
      The British press rarely ever pushes back and mostly prints what they are told. But if the Palace wasn’t funding them, how could they tell them no? At most they can take away their HRHs but that’s it.

      • ElleE says:

        @Kalana What you say makes sense: as long as they don’t use the word “Royal” or their titles for titles to promote some commercial venture, BP has no control over them. The press just goes with the info that is officially released by BP.

        But if someone told me that BP did have to confirm that every business venture didn’t reflect poorly on the unassailable Crown and that every decision had to be green lighted by BP and still the palace insisted that it was BLINDSIDED by every announcement, that would not surprise me at all. I guess that lack of leaks is what convinces me that you’re right.

  62. BC says:

    Im impressed, happy and inspired. And in love with the juxtaposes accents. And Harrys deep voice, innit? I wish we had Spotify in my country, i would listen. Meanwhile i hope they soon write a book, on something meaningful, id buy it asap, and theyd make even more money.

  63. Ravine says:

    Meh. Hopefully they interview real, on-the-ground, non-famous activists. We don’t need another “rich people pat each other on the back” podcast. George Clooney and Oprah have their own massive platforms already.

    • L4frimaire says:

      We’ll just have to see. We’ve seen some of the type of people they’ve spoken to through their patronages, the19th and the Time100 forum, so think it will be beyond celebrities. In the grand scheme of things, maybe it isn’t that big a deal but the royal watchers are certainly amplifying it beyond just meh.

    • Thirtynine says:

      Actually, I do too. That’s why I wouldn’t be interested in listening to them interview Charles. I’ve learnt a lot from following them in the last couple of years, about all sorts of things and people I hadn’t heard of doing good and inspiring work in the world. I hope we get plenty of that, and I’m sure they won’t disappoint.

  64. bettyrose says:

    At this point, if I were the RF, I’d be making really nice with the Sussexes and trying to be kept in the loop on their latest projects. Or short of that, I’d be sending out press releases with syrupy messages of pride and congratulations to make it look like they knew. Sitting back and hoping for the Sussexes to do something scandalous clearly isn’t working.

    • Kalana says:

      It was always stupid and shortsighted to fight with the Sussexes. At the end of the day they are all still family and all Harry and Meghan did was say they didn’t want to work with the rota anymore and were willing to step back from being working royals if that’s what it took. You don’t fight with family members over that.

      • bettyrose says:

        I’ve long since stopped trying to understand the family dynamics of this group. It’s not based in any type of affection or loyalty the rest of us can comprehend, but the BRF clearly craves positive publicity, so their ability to massively and repeatedly screw up opportunities to embrace the Sussexes is mind boggling.

  65. Delphine says:

    Wow! They are on fire! Well done. Good for them.

  66. Lizzie says:

    DM headline says the couple signed a lucrative deal with Spotify. While this is no doubt true, no one knows the value of the deal.

  67. The Recluse says:

    All the bitching and complaining we’re going to get from Buckingham Palace over this…What do they expect? They ran them off and expect them to live in sackcloth and ashes for their ‘misconduct’, but H and M showed them, didn’t they? Fabulous.

  68. JRenee says:

    Good for them. Wish them much success!

  69. starryfish29 says:

    Every single move that they make showing just how little they need royal life brings me such joy. I can hear Piers Morgan’s wails all the way across the world and it feeds my soul.

  70. Nyro says:

    I swear, I feel like I spoke this into existence for them LOL! I knew they were gonna get a Spotify deal and my mind was heavy on that when Meghan’s latte investment news dropped. I’m so freakin’ happy for them. And I have to say, the tears and the overall sense of defeat I’m seeing from so many of their haters us just beautiful.

  71. Nyro says:

    Also, I’m calling it now: they’re going to land a deal with a major network to air the Invictus games annually. Also, Meghan will partner with Nike or Adidas to do a workout gear line to raise proceeds for Invictus and other veterans charities they’re involved with.

  72. blunt talker says:

    I am so happy for Meghan and Harry I could burst-They certainly make moves in a stealth manner to get things done-I really like how they surprise the public with their ongoing activities-They have been some truly busy beavers since leaving the UK-LOVE THEIR SPUNK1 Good luck and God bless all of Meghan’s and Harry’s ambitions.

    • Nyro says:

      Meghan is a Beyonce Stan. I know she lives by a surprise project drop and also the philosophy “always stay gracious, best revenge is your paper”.

  73. Jen says:

    I also visit the DM comment section to try to be a voice of reason but I swear it was causing my blood pressure to rise so now I just drop some positive Sussex truth bombs and hightail it out of there. Those people are cray cray.

    Anyway, so happy that H & M are moving forward, purposely, relentlessly, and successfully.

    Bless them.

  74. lili says:

    “Meghan is good at speeches. Harry is good at having a conversation”.
    Never thought about it since Meghan is obviously great at speeches but I missed a mark. Harry has very high social emotional IQ (Meghan as well) and he actually connects better. Wow

  75. L4frimaire says:

    When it comes down to basics this is what they’re doing. They’re launching their Archewell foundation, have Invictus, Sentebale, have an Archewell Spotify podcast deal that ties into their foundation, are producers for Netflix, are angel investors in a few startups , have a speakers contract with Harry Walker, and continue to support the royal patronages they are allowed to have for now, like QCT , and Smartworks. What’s annoying the people who are always annoyed is that they are getting paid what the marketplace thinks they’re worth. Also, though the detractors never say it, they are way less visible out of the Firm, so whenever they do anything, it dominates the royal news cycle, which pisses off the detractors more, who then scream privacy like it’s some kind of force field to stop them from doing anything. They have a full portfolio and can really build on it. They appeal to a particular strain of American meritocracy where if you’re privileged and wealthy with advantages, you better work really hard to justify all that wealth.