One of the world’s most beloved TV comedies, Friends, is set to leave Netflix (UK & Ireland) on 30 December 2025, meaning fans who have been enjoying the sitcom on the platform will need to switch to other streaming services if they want to continue watching and re-watching the series.
The departure comes as streaming rights for the iconic show continue to shift between platforms. For viewers in Ireland and the UK, Friends remains available on Max, the streaming service that has become the home for much of Warner Bros. Discovery’s television catalogue. In addition, seasons of Friends are also available to stream on Amazon Prime Video for those who prefer to watch via subscription or digital purchase.
Friends — which originally aired from 1994 to 2004 — follows six friends living in New York City as they navigate life, love and career dramas. Starring Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry and David Schwimmer, the show has remained a global phenomenon long after its finale.
The series’ enduring appeal is reflected not only in its continued presence on major streaming services but also in its cultural impact. For decades, Friends has regularly topped lists of most-watched syndication reruns and streaming charts around the world. Its characters, catchphrases and theme song have become part of popular culture, and its popularity continues with new generations discovering it online.
While official worldwide streaming figures vary by platform and aren’t always publicly released, the show has consistently been one of the most streamed sitcoms globally since the advent of digital platforms, often cited by industry analysts as a perennial favourite in viewer rankings.
For Irish audiences who have enjoyed Friends on Netflix, the upcoming departure is a reminder to check out Max or Amazon Prime Video if they want uninterrupted access to all ten seasons. Both platforms currently offer the full series, making it easy for long-time fans to continue revisiting the antics of Ross, Rachel, Monica, Chandler, Joey and Phoebe — or for new viewers to dive in.
With 30 December marking the end of Friends on Netflix UK & Ireland, fans are being encouraged to plan ahead and ensure they’re set up on the right streaming service so they don’t miss out on one of television’s most popular and enduring sitcoms.
