Media Landscape Shifts: Netflix Eyes Podcast Expansion, Comcast–WBD deal Advances, and ESPN Secures Windhorst
Los Angeles – The media industry is experiencing a period of notable realignment, with Netflix aggressively pursuing video podcast licensing, a potential Comcast-Warner Bros. Discovery joint venture gaining momentum,and ESPN solidifying its on-air talent. These developments, alongside updates from Nexstar and Sling TV, signal a dynamic shift in content distribution and consumption.
Netflix is reportedly in talks with SiriusXM about licensing video podcasts, following earlier discussions with iHeartMedia. The streaming giant is also reaching out to talent agencies like CAA, UTA, and WME to secure exclusive podcasting deals, according to The Hollywood Reporter. This push follows a deal inked with spotify in October to bring video podcasts from The Ringer to Netflix beginning early next year. “This adds fresh voices and new perspectives to Netflix, making our entertainment lineup more exciting than ever,” said Lauren Smith, Netflix VP of content licensing and programming strategy, in a statement. Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos first hinted at the possibility of adding video podcasts during the company’s first-quarter earnings call in April. The company already produces its own podcast content, including the biweekly ”Netflix Sports Club” hosted by Kay Adams, and is expanding its live sports offerings with a second NFL Christmas Day doubleheader and planned MLB Opening Night coverage. A recent study from Edison Research found that 51% of the U.S.population age 12 and over has watched a video podcast, with 26% consuming them weekly.
Elsewhere, discussions continue regarding a potential joint venture between Comcast and Warner Bros. Discovery to combine their sports media assets.
In other news, ESPN announced a multiyear contract extension with senior NBA writer Brian Windhorst, who will continue contributing across all platforms, including his role hosting ”The Hoop Collective” podcast.
The NFL will also be broadcasting internationally, with Kenny Albert and Jonathan Vilma calling the NFL Madrid Game between the Washington Commanders and Miami Dolphins next sunday. Jamie Erdahl will report from the sidelines, and Mike Pereira will provide remote rules analysis.
Nexstar Media Group president/COO Mike Biard expressed confidence in broadcast television’s profitability during an earnings call thursday, suggesting the NFL opening media rights deals early could benefit networks. He downplayed the likelihood of significant game movement to streaming platforms.
Echostar reported gains for its Sling TV vMVPD, with 51,000 subscribers currently paying for Sling Orange or Sling Blue plans, wich include the Sling Day Pass feature currently facing lawsuits from The Walt Disney Company and Warner Bros. Discovery.