- Netflix is negotiating with Spotify to co-produce high-profile live events—such as award ceremonies and concert specials—for its streaming service.
- This move is part of Netflix’s aggressive live-TV expansion, building on successes like NFL Christmas games and the Jake Paul–Tyson boxing bout.
What happened: Netflix is exploring a strategic collaboration with Spotify
Netflix and Spotify have reportedly held discussions to co-create live music award shows and concert series, according to the Wall Street Journal, as part of a broader push to build live TV offerings. The talks also include formats such as celebrity interviews and quick-turnaround documentaries.
While neither party has formally commented to Reuters, the move reflects Netflix’s intent to lean into live unscripted content, following hits like “Building the Band” (due next week) and ongoing music-competition projects.The streamer’s live portfolio already boasts notable events—two NFL games over Christmas Day and the Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul boxing match—which brought 19 million new subscribers in Q4, marking a record for Netflix.
Moreover, it further cements Netflix’s investment in unscripted and live formats—a movement strongly backed by industry veteran Jeff Gaspin, Netflix’s unscripted content lead who previously launched The Voice. Recent projects under this umbrella include a reboot of Star Search, a trivia game show hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, and buzzy news-format pilots.
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Why it’s important
This initiative marks a deliberate strategic pivot. Live television remains a unique domain for generating ad revenue and viewer engagement—areas where on-demand services often falter. By partnering with Spotify, a global music heavyweight with deep industry ties, Netflix can leverage prime access to artists and events, potentially reducing costs and boosting production value.
As streaming saturation intensifies across markets—from the UK to India—Netflix needs fresh hooks to retain and grow its subscriber base. Live events create appointment viewing, enabling real-time social buzz and lucrative ad placements. If the Spotify tieup materialises, it could herald Netflix’s boldest move into live entertainment yet—and position it as a hybrid between streamer and event broadcaster.
