Netflix is officially stepping deeper into the video podcast space with the launch of its first original shows featuring Pete Davidson and Michael Irvin. The move signals Netflix’s growing interest in podcasts as part of its broader streaming strategy. The company announced two exclusive video podcasts for subscribers. Michael Irvin’s sports-focused show, The White House, will premiere on January 19. Later in the month, The Pete Davidson Show will debut on January 30.
Both projects mark Netflix’s first fully original video podcasts and are available only on the platform.
Star Power Drives Netflix Video Podcast Strategy
Netflix is relying on the popularity of its hosts to attract viewers. Pete Davidson already has a strong fan base on the service, thanks to multiple comedy specials that have performed well. His new video podcast will feature relaxed conversations with friends, filmed from his own garage, and will release new episodes every Friday. Michael Irvin brings a different audience. As a former NFL star and Hall of Famer, he appeals to sports fans who already follow football content on Netflix. His podcast will air twice a week and focus on sports news, game analysis, and commentary. Guest co-hosts will include well-known former players such as Brandon Marshall.
Original Shows Join Netflix’s Growing Podcast Library
These new shows will join Netflix’s expanding lineup of video podcasts. The platform already licenses popular titles from companies like iHeartMedia, Spotify, and Barstool Sports. Well-known podcasts such as Dear Chelsea, My Favorite Murder, and shows from The Ringer are part of that collection. Due to licensing rules, many of these podcasts are not available in full on YouTube, helping Netflix keep viewers inside its own ecosystem.
Netflix Challenges YouTube in the Podcast Market
Netflix’s push into video podcasts comes as it looks to compete with YouTube, which remains the leading platform for podcast viewing. In 2025, viewers watched more than 700 million hours of podcast content each month on television screens. Netflix sees video podcasts as a way to increase engagement and keep subscribers watching content beyond traditional series and films.
Netflix Still Has Ground to Cover
Despite the expansion, Netflix is still at an early stage compared to rivals. Millions of podcasts already exist across YouTube, Spotify, and other platforms, creating stiff competition for audience attention.
To grow its share of the podcast market, Netflix will need to continue investing in exclusive content, well-known hosts, and unique formats that encourage repeat viewing. Company leaders have said that video podcasts are part of a long-term plan to explore new types of interactive and creator-driven content. The launches of Pete Davidson’s and Michael Irvin’s shows are early signs of that strategy in action.
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