Netflix and iHeartMedia team up for exclusive video podcasts
The Netflix logo is pictured on a television in this illustration photograph taken in Encinitas, California, US, January 18, 2017. PHOTO: REUTERS
Netflix and iHeartMedia have announced a major partnership that will bring a slate of popular video podcasts to the Netflix streaming service beginning early in 2026. The exclusive deal covers more than 15 of iHeart’s top original podcasts, giving Netflix viewers access to full video episodes from shows that previously appeared in video form on other platforms.
The list of podcasts joining Netflix includes cultural mainstays such as The Breakfast Club, the true crime favourite My Favorite Murder, and the comedy series Dear Chelsea with Chelsea Handler. Other notable additions set for the video platform include Bobby Bones Presents: The Bobbycast and Joe and Jada featuring Fat Joe and Jadakiss, alongside other genre shows ranging from history to mental health topics.
Bob Pittman, chief executive officer of iHeartMedia, highlighted the growth of podcasting and said the partnership gives audiences a new way to connect with their favourite voices. He emphasised that fans will be able to not only listen but also watch these top-ranked podcasts next to the award-winning films and series Netflix already offers.
Netflix’s vice president of content licensing and programming strategy, Lauren Smith, echoed that excitement, telling reporters that the deal brings compelling personalities and entertainment to the platform. She specifically referenced fan-favourite titles such as My Favorite Murder and The Breakfast Club as early highlights that showcase the range of content now available to subscribers.
Under the terms of the agreement, iHeartMedia retains all audio-only rights, meaning that while video episodes will be exclusive to Netflix, listeners can continue to access the audio versions on iHeartRadio and other podcast services. The first episodes from the participating shows are expected to roll out on Netflix in the United States at the beginning of 2026, with further international expansion planned at a later date.
Reaction across social forums has been notable, with fans discussing how the shift of popular podcasts to Netflix could change how audiences consume this content. This move marks a continuation of Netflix’s strategy to widen its offerings beyond traditional films and series, tapping into the rapidly growing video podcast format. With a roster that spans comedy, true crime, lifestyle and culture, the partnership sets up Netflix to compete directly with platforms like YouTube for viewers interested in long-form conversational content.