Amazon just bought podcast network Wondery

After rumoured approaches by both Apple and Sony, Wondery’s Podcast network (they host the likes of Dirty John, Business Wars, and The Shrink Next Door) has been picked up by Amazon. 

Wondery was one of the last remoaining independent podcast networks; now it will be incorporated into Amazon Music. 

The tech giant has not mentioned how much it spent on the deal. However, previous reports put Wondery and its network at around US$300 million. Once the deal goes through, Wondery’s CEO Hernan Lopez will step down. 

“Amazon Music launched podcasts in September 2020, and together with Wondery, we hope to accelerate the growth and evolution of podcasts by bringing creators, hosts, and immersive experiences to even more listeners across the globe, just as we do with music,” Wondery said via statement. 

“This is a pivotal moment to expand the Amazon Music offering beyond music as listener habits evolve.”