Netflix is keeping ‘Friends’ in 2019 after all — but the show comes at a steep price
This story has been updated.
After a whirlwind of emotions Monday from "Friends" fans in the United States fearing the departure of their favorite show from Netflix's streaming service, officials have confirmed the show is going nowhere in 2019.
The Holiday Armadillo has granted your wish: “Friends” will still be there for you in the US throughout 2019 pic.twitter.com/Yd0VqRzk3r
— Netflix US (@netflix) December 3, 2018
At an investor conference in New York on Monday, Ted Sarandos, head of Netflix's content division, said the supposed Jan. 1, 2019 expiration date was just a "rumor," according to the New York Times. Netflix also confirmed the news via Twitter.
» RELATED: Here are all the movies, TV shows coming to Netflix in December
But continuing to license the program from owner WarnerMedia comes with a price tag of around $100 million, the Times reported based on accounts from two people with direct knowledge of the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity. That’s a significant jump from the previous $30 million per year streaming fee.
The show’s official page in the U.S. had displayed the rumored expiration date Monday, while the warning didn’t appear for areas outside the country.
» RELATED: Here are all the movies, TV shows leaving Netflix in December
Let’s just say Americans didn’t take the news lightly.
WHY ARE THEY REMOVING THE BEST SHOW EVER MADE OFF OFF NETFLIX? WHAT DID FRIENDS EVER DO TO YOU, NETFLIX? BRB, GONNA GO WATCH EVERY EPISODE FOR THE 80TH TIME
— DEEFIZZY␌ (@deefizzy) December 3, 2018
I turned on Netflix this morning to watch friends and saw this DISGRACE!!!!!!!! are you kidding me @netflix?!! I'm starting a petition!! pic.twitter.com/NzHXBlE1TJ
— Maggie LaCombe (@mags422) December 2, 2018
Me @ netflix when i found out they’re taking friends off pic.twitter.com/PZr1XbNBcu
— emma (@emmacoy_) December 2, 2018
Finding out Netflix is removing Friends... pic.twitter.com/Yf7yTaJcPa
— Kirsten Easton (@EastonKirsten) December 2, 2018
The 1994-2004 NBC sitcom came to Netflix on Jan. 1, 2015.


