Kelce Brothers Score $100M Podcast Deal with Amazon's Wondery

Travis and Jason Kelce, the NFL's most famous brothers, have secured a significant victory off the field. Their podcast, "New Heights," has inked a new deal with Wondery, Amazon's podcast studio. The agreement, reportedly valued at $100 million over three years, grants Wondery complete distribution rights for both audio and video versions of the show.

The podcast, which debuted in 2022, has quickly become a fan favorite, boasting over 2.4 million YouTube subscribers. Initially focused on NFL insights, the show's popularity soared when Travis Kelce began dating pop superstar Taylor Swift in September 2023. This relationship brought an influx of Swift's devoted fans, known as Swifties, eager for updates on the couple.

The Kelce brothers' journey to podcast stardom is as impressive as their football careers. Travis Kelce, a tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, has been part of three Super Bowl victories. His older brother, Jason Kelce, recently retired from the Philadelphia Eagles after a career that included one Super Bowl win. Notably, the brothers faced each other in Super Bowl LVII in 2023, adding a unique chapter to NFL history.

"We love this show and the fan base that has grown with us over the last two seasons."

The podcast's third season is set to launch on August 28, 2024, just a week before the NFL season kickoff. Despite the exclusive deal with Wondery, "New Heights" will remain accessible across various podcasting platforms. Wondery's subscription service will offer early, ad-free access to new episodes.

This deal reflects the growing value of popular podcasts in the media landscape. Other recent high-profile agreements include Alex Cooper's "Call Her Daddy" moving to SiriusXM for a reported $125 million, and the "SmartLess" podcast, hosted by Will Arnett, Jason Bateman, and Sean Hayes, securing a $100 million deal with SiriusXM in January 2024.

The podcast industry, which emerged in the early 2000s, has seen exponential growth. Major players like Spotify, founded in 2006 and now the world's largest music streaming service, have invested heavily in exclusive content. In February 2024, Joe Rogan, whose podcast began in 2009, signed a $250 million deal to remain with Spotify.

As the Kelce brothers prepare for their new season, fans can expect a mix of NFL insights, personal anecdotes, and possibly more glimpses into Travis's high-profile relationship with Taylor Swift, who has amassed 12 Grammy Awards as of 2024. The podcast's success story is a testament to the evolving media landscape and the enduring appeal of sports personalities beyond the field.