Spotify Cancels Acclaimed Podcasts Amid Major Layoffs

The streaming giant is backing away from in-house productions, laying off 17% of its staff and cancelling 'Heavyweight' and 'Stolen', two critically acclaimed podcasts from its Gimlet Media studio.

• Spotify is cancelling two critically acclaimed podcasts, 'Heavyweight' and 'Stolen', as part of a retreat from in-house productions.
• The company recently announced it's laying off 1,500 workers, or roughly 17% of its staff, marking its third round of layoffs this year.
• The cancellations and layoffs come as Spotify is said to be focusing on licensed shows that run year-round and backing away from podcasting after spending more than $1 billion in the space.
• Both 'Heavyweight' and 'Stolen' were produced by Spotify’s Gimlet Media studio, which the company acquired in 2019.
• Despite the cancellations, the producers of the shows will be free to shop them elsewhere after their current seasons end.

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