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Global pop superstar Taylor Swift has reportedly turned down an invitation to appear on “Archetypes,” the podcast produced by Meghan Markle and Prince Harry.
According to the Wall Street Journal, Swift politely declined the personal invitation via a representative, dealing a blow to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s podcast, which Spotify had initially sponsored with a $20 million deal.
Struggling to Reach Star-studded Heights
“Archetypes” has hosted a number of celebrity guests, including Serena Williams, Mariah Carey, and Paris Hilton.
However, securing a guest with Swift’s global appeal and massive fan base would have been a considerable feather in the podcast’s cap.
Unfortunately, this news comes amidst reports of the Sussex’s difficulties in securing a second season for their podcast with Spotify.
A Series of Production Setbacks
The recent setbacks for the Duke and Duchess aren’t limited to the podcasting arena.
Netflix has reportedly cancelled “Pearl,” an animated children’s show they were involved with, and rejected at least two other show ideas from the couple.
There are reports that the streaming giant doesn’t plan to renew the Sussex’s deal, which is set to expire in 2025.
Sources told WSJ that both Netflix and Spotify were taken aback by the lack of productivity from the couple, particularly considering the substantial financial commitments both companies had made.
Not All Bad News for the Sussexes
Despite these production hiccups, not everything has been negative for the royal couple since their move to Hollywood.
They made a splash by appearing in an episode of “South Park” and generated buzz with a high-speed chase story.
Additionally, their documentary “Harry & Meghan,” which was critical of the royal family, did perform well for Netflix.
In response to recent events, an Archewell spokesperson commented, “New companies often make changes in their start-up phase, both with people and strategy, and we are no exception.
We’re more equipped, focused, and energized than ever before.”
Whether this focus and energy can transform their fortunes and deliver a guest of Taylor Swift’s stature on their next project remains to be seen.
This unfolding saga highlights the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry and the challenges that even high-profile individuals like the Sussexes face in this competitive landscape.
