Did you know, several Netflix Original shows have been removed from its library in recent years. Isn’t that a contradiction? Why would a Netflix Original show be removed from Netflix? The reasons are several. Read on –
There are various TV shows and movies that Netflix doesn’t produce itself but licences from studios globally. Sometimes such shows are not renewed for a further contract, which can lead to Netflix losing the rights to showcase those TV shows or movies.
Some shows that have been removed due to licensing expirations are:
Happy Valley – A BBC show that Netflix had the licensing rights to only for limited time globally which was removed in March 2020
Estocolmo – An Argentinian crime drama series that only ran for one season removed in November 2019
River – Another BBC show that only ran for one season that was removed in October 2019 due to only international licensing rights.
The Killing – After a four season run, Netflix removed the show in August 2018 likely due to temporary contract between FOX and them.
Chewing Gum – Netflix removed it in April 2020 after it lost the rights to distribute the show internationally.
Another reason for removal of a Netflix Original show is to do with Government mandates.
Netflix has had to take down several shows from individual countries, because of government mandates.
In Saudi Arabia, an episode of “Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj” was banned for criticizing the government.
In Singapore, “The Last Hangover”, “The Legend of 420”, “Disjointed”, “The Last Temptation of Christ”, and “Cooking on High” have been removed.
In Vietnam, “Full Metal Jacket” was banned after the Vietnamese Authority of Broadcasting and Electronic Information asked them to do so.
In New Zealand, “The Bridge” was removed from Netflix due to a demand by the New Zealand Film and Video Labelling Body.
In Germany, “Night of the Living Dead” has also been removed after a government order.
These were just some instances of movies or TV shows being purged from Netflix’s website either due to licensing issues or government mandates.
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