Where Is “The Originals” Going After Netflix? The Fate of the Mikaelson Legacy

The burning question on every fan’s mind: Where will “The Originals” find its new streaming home after leaving Netflix? As of today, the most likely destinations are either HBO Max (soon to be simply Max) or Peacock. Both platforms already house a significant amount of content from The CW and Warner Bros. Television, the studio behind “The Originals.” This pre-existing relationship makes them frontrunners. However, a dark horse contender could emerge, such as Hulu or even a completely unexpected platform vying for the rights to boost their vampire-themed content library. The final decision hinges on licensing agreements, streaming strategy shifts at Warner Bros. Discovery, and the perceived value of the show’s loyal fanbase.

Understanding the Streaming Landscape Shift

The departure of “The Originals” from Netflix isn’t an isolated incident; it’s a symptom of a broader shift in the streaming landscape. Content licensing deals are becoming increasingly complex, with studios prioritizing their own streaming services. For years, Netflix thrived on licensing content from various studios, amassing a massive library that attracted subscribers. However, as studios like Warner Bros. Discovery (parent company of The CW and Warner Bros. Television) launched their own platforms, the incentive to license content to competitors diminished. This trend has resulted in the return of many popular shows to their original studio’s streaming home.

The strategy is clear: drive subscriptions to their own platforms by making exclusive content available only there. This approach allows studios to control the entire revenue stream, from subscriptions to advertising, maximizing their profits. “The Originals” leaving Netflix is a direct result of this strategic realignment. The era of easy licensing deals is fading, and studios are now fiercely protective of their intellectual property.

The Frontrunners: HBO Max/Max and Peacock

Why are HBO Max (soon to be Max) and Peacock the leading contenders? Several factors point in their favor:

• Existing Relationship: Warner Bros. Television produces “The Originals.” HBO Max/Max is owned by Warner Bros. Discovery, creating a natural synergy. Peacock already hosts many NBCUniversal-owned shows and has expanded its acquired content aggressively.
• Content Strategy: Both platforms are actively seeking to build comprehensive libraries of popular shows. Adding “The Originals” would strengthen their offerings and attract a specific demographic of viewers who enjoy supernatural dramas and teen-oriented content.
• Financial Incentives: Streaming rights generate revenue. Warner Bros. Discovery likely prefers to keep that revenue within its ecosystem by hosting “The Originals” on HBO Max/Max. Similarly, Peacock would benefit from the show’s proven popularity.

The Dark Horse Contenders: Hulu and Beyond

While HBO Max/Max and Peacock are the most likely destinations, other platforms could enter the fray:

• Hulu: Hulu already carries a vast library of television shows, including many popular dramas. Acquiring “The Originals” would complement its existing catalog and attract viewers looking for similar content.
• Free Streaming Platforms (e.g., Tubi, Roku Channel): While less likely, a free, ad-supported streaming television (FAST) platform could acquire the rights to “The Originals.” This would allow the show to reach a broader audience, though likely at a lower revenue rate than a subscription-based service.
• International Platforms: It’s also possible that the show could land primarily on an international platform, especially if that platform is making a strong push into the North American market.

The determining factor will be the financial terms of the deal and the strategic goals of Warner Bros. Discovery. Which platform offers the most lucrative deal and aligns with their long-term streaming strategy will ultimately secure the rights to “The Originals.”

What This Means for Fans

The migration of “The Originals” from Netflix might seem disruptive, but it doesn’t necessarily mean fans will lose access to the show. In fact, it could lead to new opportunities:

• Higher Quality Streaming: HBO Max/Max, known for its premium content, could offer “The Originals” in higher resolution and with enhanced audio quality.
• Potential for Spinoffs or Revivals: If “The Originals” performs well on its new platform, it could increase the likelihood of future spinoffs or even a revival of the series.
• Consolidated Viewing Experience: For fans who also enjoy other shows from The CW and Warner Bros. Television, having “The Originals” on HBO Max/Max would create a more convenient and integrated viewing experience.

The key is to stay informed about the show’s new streaming home and be prepared to adjust your subscription choices accordingly. The streaming landscape is constantly evolving, and fans must adapt to these changes to continue enjoying their favorite shows.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 12 frequently asked questions about the future of “The Originals” after its departure from Netflix:

1. When is “The Originals” leaving Netflix?

The exact date varies by region, but the removal typically happens following the end of the existing licensing agreement. Keep an eye on Netflix’s official announcements for your specific region.

2. Why is “The Originals” leaving Netflix?

As mentioned before, it’s due to changing licensing agreements. Warner Bros. Discovery, the owner of The CW and Warner Bros. Television, is prioritizing its own streaming platforms like HBO Max/Max.

3. Where is the most likely new streaming home for “The Originals”?

HBO Max (soon to be Max) or Peacock are the most likely contenders, due to their existing relationships with Warner Bros. Discovery and NBCUniversal, respectively.

4. Will “The Originals” be available to buy digitally (e.g., on iTunes, Amazon)?

Yes, it’s highly likely. Even if the show is streaming elsewhere, it will remain available for digital purchase on platforms like iTunes, Amazon Prime Video, and Google Play.

5. Will “The Originals” be available on Blu-ray or DVD?

“The Originals” is already available on Blu-ray and DVD. This option provides a permanent copy of the series, unaffected by streaming changes.

6. What about “Legacies,” the spinoff of “The Originals”? Will its streaming status be affected?

The streaming status of “Legacies” is a separate issue, although likely facing similar forces. It’s possible it will follow a similar path to “The Originals” and move to HBO Max/Max or Peacock after leaving Netflix.

7. How can I stay updated on where “The Originals” is streaming?

Follow official announcements from Warner Bros. Discovery, HBO Max/Max, Peacock, and entertainment news outlets. Social media accounts dedicated to “The Originals” are also good sources of information.

8. Will the quality of streaming be the same on the new platform?

Potentially better. HBO Max/Max is known for its high-quality streaming, so the show could be available in higher resolution and with better audio.

9. Could this change lead to a revival or continuation of “The Originals”?

While not guaranteed, a successful run on a new streaming platform could increase the likelihood of a revival or continuation, especially if it generates significant buzz and viewership.

10. Will all seasons of “The Originals” be available on the new platform?

It’s highly likely that all seasons will be available, as that’s the standard practice for streaming a complete series.

11. Is it possible the show will move to a free, ad-supported streaming service?

Yes, it’s possible, though less likely than a move to HBO Max/Max or Peacock. A free streaming service would allow a broader audience to access the show, but the revenue generated would be lower.

12. Will this affect international viewers?

Yes. Licensing agreements vary by region, so the streaming destination for “The Originals” may differ depending on the country. International fans should follow local announcements for specific information.