At this point in time, many streaming services are starting to declutter their platforms. We saw the first major example of this with HBO Max when they removed numerous shows and movies from their catalogue. Netflix began following suit soon after, having removed their fan-favorite series Hemlock Grove. Now Netflix is going a step further with the removal of their very first original series.
Many viewers might think of such projects as House of Cards or Orange is the New Black as Netflix’s first original shows. But that actually isn’t the case. The first original series to debut on Netflix is none other than Lilyhammer. The Norwegian mob comedy, starring Sopranos actor Stevie Van Zandt, was a major step for Netflix at the time. It obviously paved the way for the type of content that Netflix would later acquire and produce as we’ve seen over the years.
As noted via IndieWire, “Netflix’s 10-year license to stream the show in the U.S. expires in November and the deal is not being extended,” according to “a person with knowledge of the plans.” As such, fans have until November to binge Lilyhammer. The series, which includes 24 episodes across two seasons, is currently available in its entirety on Netflix until their license expires.
In Lilyhammer, the first original series for Netflix, Stevie Van Zandt plays hitman Frank Tagliano. He enters the FBI’s Witness Protection program in an effort to live a simpler life in Norway. Of course, things don’t go the way he planned.
It’s unclear what the next step for the many competing streaming services will be. With ad-supported plans being implemented and so many shows or films being removed, it’s clear that the landscape will be drastically changing in the coming years. And, with that in mind, it’ll be interesting to see what other shows or films might be removed next. So, with that in mind, stay tuned to ScreenGeek for any additional updates as we have them.