Alex Cooper's Unwell podcast network is landing its first outside investment at a $500 million valuation

Hollywood powerhouse Patrick Whitesell has injected a $500 million valuation into media company Unwell, according to sources close to the transaction. Whitesell, known for representing A-list talent like Ben Affleck and Matt Damon, is confident that Cooper and her husband Matt Kaplan can propel Unwell into a multi-billion dollar enterprise.

Silicon Valley firm WTSL, backed by venture capital firm Silver Lake, financed the investment to fuel Unwell's expansion into video and consumer product markets. Unwell, co-founded by Cooper and Kaplan in 2023, capitalized on the success of their hit podcast Call Her Daddy. The show's candid discussions on romance and sexuality, particularly resonating with younger audiences, have earned it a spot among the most-listened-to podcasts in the United States.

Sirius XM Holdings Inc. compensates Unwell in excess of $30 million annually for distribution and advertising sales. Cooper has harnessed the podcast's popularity to diversify Unwell's portfolio, releasing a Hulu documentary, hosting programming from the Paris Olympics, and developing series for YouTube. Additionally, Unwell has launched a beverage line with Nestle and established an advertising agency in collaboration with Google.

Despite their promising trajectory, Unwell has faced criticism for alleged toxic work conditions, with Cooper and Kaplan facing accusations of creating an unwelcoming environment for employees. However, Cooper insists that her husband and her foster a "very positive and safe" workplace. This report first appeared on Fortune.com.