The new streaming service from Warners and HBO is the next big thing. Here’s all that you need to know.
Despite the fact that you’ve probably seen every single episode 72 times before, the popularity of Friends is showing no signs of waning because for many people, it’s the ultimate comfort watch.
Granted, there are so many titles on Netflix to chose from but we’re all guilty of going back to the old reliables. That’s why the online streaming giant spent so much to get the beloved sitcom into their library but for viewers in the US, Friends will be leaving shortly.
Unlike the sudden and dramatic departure of Dr. Drake Ramoray from Days of Our Lives, this decision has been heavily forecast because there’s a new online streaming service in town that’s set to pose a big challenge to Netflix.
WarnerMedia’s streaming service, now officially called HBO Max, is set to launch in spring 2020 and it will be hosting 10,000 hours of premium content.
In terms of the properties that they’ve got, expect to see a plethora of HBO shows – Game of Thrones, The Sopranos, Big Little Lies –  while CW originals starting like Batwoman and Riverdale will also be available.
Of course, Friends is the jewel in the syndication crown of Warner Bros. and the sitcom will be leaving the US version of Netflix, however, there’s “no change for now” for Irish viewers.
Yep, no change for now. It's US only.
— Netflix UK & Ireland (@NetflixUK) July 9, 2019
However, as stated previously, due to the differences in right issues and broadcast contracts, Friends will be leaving the US version of Netflix.
Again, given the labyrinth and ever-changing nature of nature of the TV industry, it’s possible that Friends could leave the Irish version of Netflix, but for now, it’s going nowhere, unlike the US.
The One Where We Have To Say Goodbye.
We’re sorry to see Friends go to Warner's streaming service at the beginning of 2020 (in The US). Thanks for the memories, gang ☕
— Netflix (@netflix) July 9, 2019
HBO Max will also feature content from WarnerMedia outlets, including features from Warner Bros, New Line, DC Entertainment, CNN, TNT, TBS, TruTV, Turner Classic Movies, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim and more.
HBO shows that are set to stream on the new service include the upcoming entries Watchmen, The Outsider (from Stephen King), J.J. Abrams and Jordan Peele’s Lovecraft Country, Joss Whedon’s The Nevers, and David Simon’s The Plot Against America.
HBO Max will feature scripted originals like Dune: The Sisterhood; Tokyo Vice, Kaley Cuoco’s new show, The Flight Attendant, and a Gremlins animated prequel series.
“HBO Max will bring together the diverse riches of WarnerMedia to create programming and user experiences not seen before in a streaming platform.
“HBO’s world-class programming leads the way, the quality of which will be the guiding principle for our new array of Max Originals, our exciting acquisitions, and the very best of the Warner Bros. libraries, starting with the phenomenon that is Friends,” Robert Greenblatt, chairman, WarnerMedia Entertainment and Direct-to-Consumer, said in a statement.
Here’s a brief look at what’s in store.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LCS4CaZ9dwg
Clip via HBO Max
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