Which Iconic Sci-Fi Series Will Depart Netflix in 2026?

Netflix's long-standing relationship with the Star Trek franchise is officially ending, as the platform begins to issue removal notices for all Star Trek series. By 2026, every Star Trek title currently available on Netflix will be exclusively transferred to Paramount+, marking a significant shift for fans of the iconic sci-fi series.

Last updated: 06 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The news of Star Trek's departure from Netflix signals a major transition in how the franchise is distributed. This change comes as Paramount continues to consolidate its intellectual property, ensuring that the entire Star Trek catalogue is available on its own streaming service, Paramount+. As part of this shift, all Star Trek series, including classics and newer offerings, will be removed from Netflix by 2026.

Key takeaways

All Star Trek series on Netflix will leave the platform by 2026.
Paramount+ will become the exclusive streaming home for Star Trek content.
Netflix's role in popularising Star Trek over the past decade is significant.
International accessibility to Star Trek may decrease with the move to Paramount+.
Fans have time to adjust before the final removals take place.

Timeline: how we got here

Understanding the timeline of events leading up to this moment helps clarify the shift in the ownership of Star Trek's streaming rights:

2013: Netflix acquires streaming rights for Star Trek series, introducing the franchise to a new audience.
2023: Star Trek: Prodigy, an animated series, is launched on Netflix after being cancelled by Paramount.
2023: Paramount begins issuing removal notices for various Star Trek titles on Netflix.
2026: All Star Trek series are expected to be removed from Netflix completely.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent developments include the confirmation of removal dates for several Star Trek titles on Netflix. Star Trek: Prodigy, despite its recent release and renewal for a second season, is among the titles slated for removal, highlighting the comprehensive nature of the rights shift.

What was already established

Netflix has played a crucial role in maintaining the accessibility of Star Trek over the past decade. Classic series and newer iterations have been available, fostering a new generation of fans. However, Paramount's decision to centralise its content under the Paramount+ banner was anticipated, given the trend of streaming services consolidating their properties.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The impending departure of Star Trek series from Netflix may affect UK viewers significantly. With the removal of popular titles, fans may need to subscribe to Paramount+ to continue enjoying these shows. This could lead to increased subscription costs for households already paying for multiple streaming services.

Businesses and jobs

For businesses, the shift may have implications for streaming-related jobs, particularly for those involved in content acquisition and marketing at Netflix. Additionally, as Paramount+ continues to develop new Star Trek series, it may create new employment opportunities within the sector.

Policy and regulation

The move to consolidate Star Trek on Paramount+ may also prompt discussions within regulatory frameworks regarding competition in the streaming market. As more companies seek to create exclusive content for their platforms, there may be increased scrutiny over monopolistic practices and content ownership.

Numbers that matter

4 decades: The span of Star Trek's television history, from The Original Series to the latest productions.
Over 800 episodes: The total number of episodes from all Star Trek series, showcasing the franchise's extensive legacy.
£5-10: The expected increase in monthly subscriptions for fans who may need to switch to Paramount+.
1: The number of exclusive streaming platforms for Star Trek content after the transition, consolidating the franchise's offerings.
2026: The year by which all Star Trek series will be removed from Netflix.

Definitions and jargon buster

Star Trek: A science fiction franchise created by Gene Roddenberry, including various television series, films, and novels.
Paramount+: A subscription-based streaming service owned by Paramount Global, featuring a range of content including Star Trek.
Streaming rights: Legal permissions that allow a platform to show specific content to its subscribers.
Trekkies: A colloquial term for passionate fans of the Star Trek franchise.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Fans should begin considering their viewing options for Star Trek content. It may be beneficial to explore Paramount+ and its offerings to assess whether the service aligns with their viewing preferences.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the 2026 deadline approaches, viewers may want to engage with Star Trek content on Netflix while it is still available. This could include binge-watching series or delving into the franchise's extensive history.

Signals to watch

Official announcements regarding the exact removal dates for each Star Trek series.
Updates from Paramount+ about new Star Trek series and content being added to the platform.
Changes in subscription pricing for both Netflix and Paramount+.

Practical guidance

Do

Explore Paramount+ before the Star Trek removal to understand its offerings.
Consider binge-watching your favourite Star Trek series while still available.
Keep track of announcements regarding new Star Trek content on Paramount+.

Don’t

Don’t wait until the last minute to catch up on Star Trek series on Netflix.
Don’t overlook the potential for increased costs with new subscriptions.
Don’t assume that Paramount+ will be as accessible globally as Netflix was.

Checklist

Review your current streaming subscriptions and assess costs.
Compile a watchlist of Star Trek episodes you want to see before they leave Netflix.
Research Paramount+ to determine if it meets your viewing needs.
Stay informed about the latest Star Trek developments and announcements.
Consider engaging with online fan communities for recommendations.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

As the transition unfolds, there are several uncertainties that may affect how fans experience Star Trek. Paramount's strategy to consolidate its content could lead to challenges in international accessibility, particularly in regions where Paramount+ is less established. Additionally, the financial implications of subscribing to multiple streaming services could deter some fans from following the franchise. Thus, it is essential to stay updated on the latest developments and prepare for potential changes in how Star Trek content is delivered.

Bottom line

The end of Netflix’s relationship with Star Trek signals a significant shift in how the franchise will be consumed in the coming years. As Paramount+ becomes the exclusive home for Star Trek content, fans must adapt to this change, potentially incurring new subscription costs and dealing with varying accessibility. This transition marks a pivotal moment for the franchise, as it continues to evolve within the streaming landscape.

FAQs

When will Star Trek leave Netflix?

Star Trek series are expected to be removed from Netflix by 2026, with specific dates varying by region.

Why is Star Trek moving to Paramount+?

The move is part of Paramount's strategy to consolidate its intellectual property and offer all Star Trek content exclusively on its own streaming service.

What should fans do to prepare for the transition?

Fans should consider binge-watching Star Trek series on Netflix while they are still available and explore Paramount+ to assess its offerings before the transition occurs.