Acast to host and monetise the show for the next three years

Marc Maron has signed a three-year deal to host his hit WTF podcast on the giant Acast platform.

The deal aims to monetise the back catalogue of the show, which started in 2009, as well as make more of the bonus content available to paying members.

But the platform insists there will be no major change to the podcast, saying: ‘WTF with Marc Maron will continue to be released twice a week and will be available to all listeners, wherever they choose to listen to their podcasts.’

The show achieves about 55 million listens per year, primarily in North America, and has featured guests such as President Barack Obama, Kate Winslet, Keith Richards, Nicole Kidman and Robin Williams.

Maron said: ‘We've amassed an amazing catalogue over the years and Acast offers us an opportunity to make it available in a way it hasn't been before, especially in international markets.

‘We’ve released two episodes every week for almost 13 years and we don’t plan on stopping any time soon. Acast won't stand in the way of us doing the show the way we want to do it, the way we like doing it, the way we've always done it.

‘They're excited and focused and I think the partnership will be very productive.’

Acast chief executive Ross Adams added: ‘Entering into a partnership with the podcast giant Marc Maron is a big win for Acast and for the open podcasting landscape, as this deal guarantees that the podcast can continue to be listened to by everyone, everywhere and on their preferred listening platform.

‘In addition to WTF with Marc Maron being one of the largest podcasts in the world, Maron is also one of the very best hosts in the business. This collaboration presents a real step forward for us.’

The deal, which will come into effect from July 1, was negotiated by Avalon who represent Maron and his podcast.

Published: 25 May 2022