Meghan Markle Scores New Deal for 'Record-Breaking' Project after Cutting Ties with Former Partner
Embarking on a fresh journey, Meghan Markle partners with a leading podcast network to amplify women's voices worldwide. This collaboration promises innovative content and a deeper dive into challenging societal norms.
Meghan Markle at the Variety Power of Women event in Los Angeles, California on November 16, 2023 | Source: Getty Images
Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has embarked on a new venture, securing a significant partnership with Lemonada Media, a leader in the podcasting arena. This collaboration will bring her podcast "Archetypes" under Lemonada Media's wing for advertising sales and distribution across all audio platforms, along with a new, yet-to-be-named series.
"Archetypes" has garnered acclaim for engaging barrier-breaking women in conversations about societal labels. The show has featured stars such as Mariah Carey and Mindy Kaling, and has achieved over 10 million downloads worldwide.
Meghan Markle speaking during the World Mental Health Day Festival in New York City on October 10, 2023 | Source: Getty Images
Described as "a record-breaking podcast," "Archetypes" explores "the labels that try to hold women back [...] and debuted as Spotify's No. 1 podcast in 47 countries around the world." This deal follows Prince Harry and Meghan's separation from Spotify Technology last year, marking a pivotal shift in their media collaborations.
Despite the success of their Archewell Audio productions with the streaming giant, the mutual nature of the departure marked the beginning of a new chapter in the couple's digital content endeavors.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry during the World Mental Health Day Festival in New York City on October 10, 2023 | Source: Getty Images
Additionally, Meghan's representation by talent agency WME since last April highlights her ongoing pursuit of impactful projects. Lemonada Media's leadership, Jessica Cordova Kramer and Stephanie Wittels Wachs, have expressed their excitement and admiration for Meghan's work ethic and vision.
Jessica stated, "We are beyond honored that Meghan has trusted us to help democratize access to 'Archetypes,' and that so many more people around the world will have access to the series soon." Stephanie mentioned her team "felt immediate kinship with Meghan and the Archwell Productions team."
Meghan's move to support a female-led company resonates with her commitment to fostering community and compassion through her podcasting endeavors.
Regarding her new deal, she enthused, "Being able to support a female founded company with a roster of thought provoking and highly entertaining podcasts is a fantastic way to kick off 2024."
Meghan Markle at the Global Citizen Live event in New York City on September 25, 202 | Source: Getty Images
This partnership not only signifies a fresh start for Meghan but also promises to amplify her voice and message to a broader audience. Which, in turn, reinforces her influence in the media landscape as she continues to champion women's empowerment and societal change.
Meghan Markle spotted in New York City on September 24, 2021 | Source: Getty Images
Meghan Markle's new deal with Lemonada Media highlights a significant milestone in her career, showcasing her dedication to meaningful storytelling and her ability to influence and redefine the podcasting space.
As previously reported on February 13:
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle recently launched a new website, transitioning from the Sussex Royal URL handle to simply Sussex. Despite stepping back from official royal duties, they continue to use their titles, Duke and Duchess of Sussex. The website includes a section designed to offer the public more insight into their lives and work.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle spotted in New York City on September 24, 2021 | Source: Getty Images
Notably, Meghan's page introduces her using only her first name, omitting her family name. This decision reflects a common practice among British Royals, who are frequently referred to by their first names and titles.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at The Sunken Gardens at Kensington Palace on November 27, 2017 | Source: Getty Images
Meghan's narrative on the site includes her upbringing, painting a picture of her journey from a young South California girl to the influential figure she is today. The page also featured her advocacies for women, mental health, gender equality, and family care.
Meghan Markle at the Variety Power of Women event in Los Angeles, California on November 16, 2023 | Source: Getty Images
Meghan's impact and recognition are also highlighted through her inclusion in various world rankings, marking her as a notable figure on the global stage.
Now residing in California as a mother of two, Meghan and Harry have embarked on a new chapter away from their roles as senior members of the British Royal Family. Their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, whose names are emblematic of their continued connection to Harry's heritage, are a significant part of their lives in America.
Meghan Markle at The Fashion Awards in London, England on December 10, 2018 | Source: Getty Images
Following their move, the couple launched the Archewell Foundation and introduced the podcast "Archetypes," initiatives that underline their ongoing commitment to public service and discourse.
Meghan Markle at the College Women of The Year event in New York City on April 27, 2016 | Source: Getty Images
Meghan's details are available on the Royal Family's official website, though it offers limited information about her advocacies and activities. It mentions that she and her husband have stepped back as senior members, stating, "The Duchess will continue to support various charitable causes and organizations that align with her longstanding interests, including the arts, education access, women's support, and animal welfare."
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at the Ms. Foundation Women of Vision Awards | Source: Getty images
Recently, in light of King Charles' recent cancer diagnosis, Prince Harry returned to London to be by his father's side. However, Meghan Markle decided to stay in America during this period.
The reasons behind Meghan's choice to remain in America, while not confirmed were revealed by the King's former butler, Grant Harrold.
"Meghan made the decision that it was best to stay home with the children, and maybe she feels that this is something Harry has got to do alone," he said. "It’s his father. She’s aware of the close relationship and probably encouraged him to come over."
As previously reported on February 13:
Since stepping back from royal duties and moving to America, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's royal-related actions have been scrutinized. Their recent website launch, has drawn attention for maintaining their royal titles on the landing page.
Meghan Markle spotted arriving for the Ripple Awards Gala in New York City on December 6, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
This move has sparked debates on Twitter, with some users questioning the necessity of these titles for the couple's work and others calling for the titles to be removed, highlighting their disconnection from the monarchy.
Upon entering their new website, internet users are greeted with the line "THE OFFICE OF PRINCE HARRY & MEGHAN THE DUKE & DUCHESS OF SUSSEX." Some frustrated social media users took their sentiments to Twitter and aired their thoughts.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in New York in 2022 | Source: Getty Images
"Question for the #SussexSquad weren’t y’all insisting that Harry & Meghan DO NOT NEED royal titles yet launched a website with exactly that?? #PATHETIC The Office of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex" one tweet read.
"They hold no official offices, they are not connected to the monarchy or the royal family with their work in any way," another Twitter user pointed out.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at a local farming family, the Woodleys, on October 17, 2018 in Dubbo, Australia. | Source: Getty Images
"They need their titles removed from them," a third protested, highlighting how Prince Harry and Meghan are profiting through the royal titles without honoring the royal family.
A fourth person wondered if it was legal for those who have left their royal duties to still hold the same title. "They have gotten away with too much already," the person tweeted.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on March 9, 2020, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images
The new website features information about the couple, recent news, and links to their Archwell Foundation and Archwell Productions websites, differing from their former website's focus on the three topics: supporting the community, serving the Monarchy, and strengthening the Commonwealth.
Most recently, Prince Harry flew to London after his father's cancer diagnosis was revealed publicly. Meanwhile, his wife stayed home in California to take care of their two children.