Netflix is pushing further into the sports media spotlight with a new long-term partnership involving Barstool Sports. Starting in early 2026, the streaming giant will become the exclusive home for video editions of three of Barstool’s most influential podcasts: Pardon My Take, The Ryen Russillo Podcast, and Spittin’ Chiclets. The move signals Netflix’s intent to expand beyond traditional entertainment and deepen its presence in sports-driven conversation and culture.
As part of the agreement, Netflix will stream all newly produced video episodes from the three podcasts, along with a curated selection of past episodes. While Netflix takes over video distribution, audio versions will remain available across existing podcast platforms, ensuring longtime listeners don’t lose access. The rollout will begin in the United States, with plans to extend availability to additional regions at a later stage.
Each podcast brings a distinct voice and audience to the platform. Pardon My Take, hosted by Big Cat and PFT Commenter, is known for its irreverent humor, recurring bits, and sharp takes that resonate with a broad sports audience. The Ryen Russillo Podcast leans into in-depth analysis and extended conversations with athletes, analysts, and cultural figures, offering thoughtful perspectives that fuel weekly sports debates. Meanwhile, Spittin’ Chiclets delivers an unapologetic dive into hockey culture, blending NHL coverage with candid storytelling and locker-room energy.
For Netflix, the deal reflects a broader strategy focused on sports-adjacent programming rather than live games alone. By embracing podcasts driven by strong personalities and loyal fanbases, the platform is positioning itself as a hub for sports discussion, commentary, and humor. This approach aligns with growing demand for content that complements live sports, offering fans something engaging whether they are deeply invested or casually tuning in.
The partnership underscores a wider shift in how sports media is consumed, with premium, personality-led content becoming just as valuable as live broadcasts. With more details expected to emerge in 2026, the Netflix and Barstool collaboration highlights how streaming platforms are redefining where and how sports conversations take place, blending entertainment, opinion, and community into a single viewing experience.
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