Netflix describes its recently released “The Pete Davidson Show” as a “video podcast,” and now SAG-AFTRA has signed a deal with the streamer to cover its production.
The talk show, hosted by a “Saturday Night Live” alum, debuted on Netflix on January 30, and it feels like a TV show. First, it is not widely distributed on major audio platforms like Apple Podcasts or Spotify, which is common for podcasts, and is only available on Netflix.
After Davidson’s show was announced, SAG-AFTRA reached out to Netflix to discuss whether the project should be treated as a TV show or a podcast. On Thursday, the Actors Guild announced it had struck a podcast agreement.
“SAG-AFTRA and Netflix have entered into a podcast agreement covering ‘The Pete Davidson Show,'” a union representative said in a statement to Variety.
The news comes as SAG-AFTRA began negotiations on Monday (February 9) on a new overall agreement with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), of which Netflix is a member.
SAG-AFTRA did not disclose the terms of its podcast agreement with Netflix for Davidson’s show. However, union podcast agreements typically have less stringent requirements than television agreements. TV contracts require a balance payment, but podcast contracts usually don’t require a balance payment. Additionally, TV contracts have relatively strict rules regarding production safety protocols, working hours, breaks, and travel, which are often simplified in podcast contracts.
According to the podcast contract FAQ, the union says, “SAG-AFTRA negotiates term podcast agreements with podcast companies that establish minimum fees and certain terms that may differ from the agreements we have promulgated. We also have agreements and relationships with broadcast stations and audiobook companies that produce podcasts.”
On “The Pete Davidson Show,” the comedian “sits down with his famous friends and reveals their conversations from the comfort of his garage,” Netflix said. Guests on the first two episodes of the show are Machine Gun Kelly (MGK) and Charlamagne the God.
The podcast is produced by Above Average President Mark Lieberman and Ayala Cohen (former SNL Talent Director). Directed by Sarah Brennan Kolb. Separately, Davidson has produced two comedy specials for Netflix, 2020’s Alive From New York and 2024’s Turbo Fonzarelli.
Netflix also has an original video podcast, “The White House,” hosted by former NFL star Michael Irvin and featuring sports analysis from a rotating co-host, including former pro football wide receiver Brandon Marshall. Currently, SAG-AFTRA and Netflix do not have a podcast agreement covering this show.
