Netflix Scores Barstool Sports Podcasts in Multiyear Deal
Netflix is expanding its foray into audio-visual content with a new partnership with Barstool Sports, bringing exclusive video versions of popular podcasts to its platform. The deal signals a continued investment by Netflix in the podcasting space,aiming to attract and retain subscribers with a diverse range of programming.
netflix has secured exclusive rights to video versions of three of Barstool’s most popular podcasts: “Pardon My Take,” “The ryen Russillo Podcast,” and “Spittin’ Chiclets.” The streaming giant plans to launch the video podcasts in the U.S. in early 2026, with plans for international expansion to follow. As a result of the agreement, full video episodes of these podcasts will no longer be available on YouTube beginning next year.
The multiyear pact encompasses both new episodes and a selection of archived content from each show.Importantly, the audio versions of the podcasts will remain accessible on major platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts, ensuring continued reach for Barstool’s existing audience.
“We’re excited to partner with Netflix and hopefully bring new audiences to each platform,” said the founder and owner of Barstool Sports in a released statement. This sentiment underscores the potential for increased exposure and growth for both companies through the collaboration.
This move is part of a broader strategy by Netflix to bolster its podcast offerings. The company has previously established licensing agreements with Spotify, featuring shows like “The Bill Simmons Podcast” and “The Rewatchables,” and with iHeartMedia, securing rights to at least 15 podcasts, including “The Breakfast Club.”
According to a company release, Lauren Smith, Netflix VP of content licensing and programming strategy, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership.”This partnership broadens how our members connect with Barstool’s leading sports voices and delivers exactly what our members crave: unfiltered commentary, sharp takes and undeniable humor,” she stated. “We look forward to giving fans another exciting way to engage with the conversations they love on Netflix.”
“Pardon My Take,” hosted by Big Cat and PFT Commenter,is known for its “sharp sports commentary and fan-favorite segments.” “The Ryen Russillo Show” offers in-depth sports analysis and guest interviews, while “Spittin’ Chiclets,” featuring Ryan Whitney, Paul Bissonnette, and Rear Admiral, provides coverage of the NHL alongside “their trademark pop-culture insights.”
The deal was brokered by UTA, which represents Barstool sports.
The partnership arrives after a complex ownership history for Barstool Sports. Founded in 2002 by Dave Portnoy, the company saw a majority stake sold to Peter Chernin’s Chernin Group in 2016. Penn Entertainment later acquired
Penn Entertainment later acquired barstool Sports outright in February 2023 for $388 million. However, in August 2023, Penn Entertainment sold Barstool Sports back to Dave Portnoy for $1. The deal with Netflix represents a new direction for Barstool, focusing on content distribution through a leading streaming platform. The financial terms of the Netflix deal were not disclosed.
