Sarah had just finished binge-watching all five seasons of The Last Kingdom for the third time when she noticed something alarming in her Netflix queue. A small notification appeared next to her beloved historical drama: “Last day to watch: March 9.” Her heart sank as she realized her favorite show about Uhtred of Bebbanburg was about to disappear from the platform forever.
Like millions of other fans, Sarah assumed that Netflix originals stayed on Netflix permanently. After all, that’s what made the streaming service special – you could always return to your favorite shows. But now she’s learning a harsh reality that’s catching viewers off guard across North America.
The Last Kingdom, one of Netflix’s most popular historical dramas, is preparing to leave the platform in both the United States and Canada during 2026. This departure marks a rare instance of a major Netflix original leaving the service, and it’s happening sooner than most fans expected.
The Shocking Truth About Netflix Original Ownership
The confusion around this Netflix original leaving stems from a complex web of licensing agreements that most viewers never see. While The Last Kingdom carries the “Netflix Original” branding in many regions, the reality behind the scenes tells a different story.
“Most people don’t realize that Netflix doesn’t actually own every show they label as an original,” explains streaming industry analyst Mark Henderson. “Sometimes they’re just the exclusive distributor in certain markets.”
The Last Kingdom originally aired on BBC Two in the United Kingdom before Netflix picked up the international distribution rights. When the streaming giant became the primary partner for later seasons, they branded it as a Netflix Original in most territories outside the UK.
However, Carnival Films, the production company behind the series, retained ownership of the show. This means Netflix only secured exclusive streaming rights for a limited time period – not permanent ownership like many viewers assumed.
When Your Favorite Show Disappears: The Removal Timeline
The departure isn’t happening all at once. Different regions will lose access to The Last Kingdom based on when their specific licensing agreements expire. Here’s the complete timeline that fans need to know:
| Region | Removal Date | Years Since Final Season |
|---|---|---|
| Canada | March 9, 2026 | 4 years |
| United States | December 9, 2026 | 4 years, 9 months |
| United Kingdom | April 1, 2028 | 6 years |
| Australia & Europe | April 1, 2028 | 6 years |
The staggered removal dates trace back to when Season 5 premiered in each territory. Canada gets hit first because that’s where the four-year licensing clock started ticking on March 9, 2022. The United States follows later in the year, while other regions get a reprieve until 2028.
“The licensing terms are tied directly to when the final season became available in each market,” notes entertainment lawyer Rebecca Chen. “It’s not arbitrary – these dates were locked in years ago when the contracts were signed.”
What This Means for Streaming and Your Viewing Habits
This situation reveals some uncomfortable truths about modern streaming that extend far beyond just one show. For millions of subscribers, the idea that Netflix originals could vanish challenges their entire understanding of what they’re paying for each month.
The financial implications are significant for both Netflix and viewers. The streaming service loses a major draw that helped justify subscription prices, while fans face the possibility of having to purchase the series elsewhere or lose access entirely.
Current options for watching The Last Kingdom after it leaves Netflix include:
- Digital purchase on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, or Google Play
- Physical DVD or Blu-ray collections
- Potential licensing to other streaming services
- International Netflix accounts through VPN services (though this violates Netflix’s terms of service)
“This is going to become more common as we see the first generation of Netflix originals hit their licensing expiration dates,” predicts streaming consultant David Torres. “Viewers need to adjust their expectations about permanent availability.”
The broader impact extends to how people consume and discuss television. When shows can disappear without warning, it becomes harder to recommend series to friends or engage in long-term fan communities. The shared cultural experience of having access to the same content starts breaking down.
Why This Departure Matters More Than You Think
The Last Kingdom’s exit represents more than just one show leaving a platform – it’s a preview of what could happen to other beloved series as streaming contracts mature. Several other popular “Netflix Originals” operate under similar licensing arrangements rather than full ownership.
For international audiences, this creates an even more complex landscape. Shows might remain available in some countries while disappearing from others, fragmenting fan communities and creating confusion about where content can legally be accessed.
“We’re entering a new phase where nothing on streaming platforms should be considered permanent,” warns media researcher Dr. Amanda Foster. “The golden age of unlimited access is starting to show its limitations.”
The situation also highlights the importance of understanding what “Netflix Original” actually means. Some are produced in-house by Netflix Studios, others are exclusive licensing deals, and still others are co-productions with traditional broadcasters or production companies.
For viewers like Sarah, the lesson is clear: if you love a show, don’t assume it’ll always be there. The streaming landscape is more fragile and temporary than most people realize, and even the biggest hits can vanish when contracts expire.
FAQs
Will The Last Kingdom return to Netflix after leaving?
There’s no guarantee it will return, as this depends on new licensing negotiations between Netflix and the rights holders.
Can I still watch The Last Kingdom after it leaves Netflix?
Yes, you can purchase episodes or seasons through digital platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, or buy physical DVDs.
Are other Netflix Originals at risk of leaving?
Shows that Netflix doesn’t fully own could potentially leave when their licensing agreements expire, though each situation is different.
Why doesn’t Netflix just buy the show permanently?
The cost to purchase full ownership rights is often significantly higher than licensing, and the original production companies may not want to sell.
Will Netflix warn viewers before removing The Last Kingdom?
Netflix typically provides 30-day notices for major removals, though they may start alerting viewers earlier for popular series.
Does this affect the planned movie sequel Seven Kings Must Die?
The movie should remain available as it was produced specifically for Netflix, but viewers should check for any licensing updates.
About the Author
