Meghan and Harry release first podcast
Prince Harry and Meghan are now podcast hosts. They teased listeners Tuesday with a sample of their upcoming Archewell podcast, and they’re already getting a lot of f lack for it.
Their 2020 Archewell Audio holiday special, part
of their multiyear partnership with Spotify to produce podcasts and shows, ref lected on the tumultuous year, which began for them with the January announcement that they would be stepping back as senior royals in the British monarchy.
But the Sussexes’ departure from the crown, torrential backlash and bevy of new media endeavors weren’t at all mentioned in the
uplifting special, which they said is meant to bring “a little warmth, a smile and something to think about.”
Like many other Sussex entertainment endeavors, the debut special immediately drew adverse reactions in the United Kingdom, with critics demanding that the couple renounce their titles for tackling a number of politically charged subjects.
Among the topics: racial injustice, gender equality,
environmental stewardship, youth employment and mental health, with the couple’s position on them being very clear in the subtext and affiliations of their diverse celebrity and activist guests.
The former “Suits” actress, whose mother is Black, has contended with racist discourse since she began dating the prince.
The special featured audio diaries from “people that inspire them and people they admire,” including democracy advocate Stacey Abrams, who was an instrumental figure in the election of President-elect Joe Biden; renowned chef and philanthropist José Andrés; researcher and podcaster Brené Brown; antiracism activist Rachel Cargle; alternative-medicine pioneer Deepak Chopra; friend and “Late Late Show” host James Corden; author Matt
Haig; musician Elton John; tennis star Naomi Osaka; filmmaker Tyler Perr y; and spoken-word artist George the Poet.
Harry and Meghan’s 1-year-old son, Archie, also made a cameo at the end of the special to wish everyone a happy new year.
The first complete series from Archewell Audio and Spotify is expected next year and will stream for free.