Friends to leave Netflix India before 2025 ends; fans react with shock and frustration

Why is Friends leaving Netflix?

Fans of Friends across India are feeling deflated after learning that the much-loved sitcom will be disappearing from Netflix before the end of the year.

Even though the series wrapped up two decades ago, its timeless appeal hasn’t faded, it’s still shown on at least one channel every single day. And for countless viewers, Netflix has been the easiest way to drop into Central Perk, whether for a binge-watch or a comforting background episode before bed.

But that easy access is about to end. Netflix has confirmed that all 10 seasons will leave the platform on 30 December, giving viewers only a few more weeks to enjoy the show.

On Reddit, fans have been trying to piece the puzzle together. Some believe it’s simply a case of Netflix’s licensing deal running out.

After all, this has happened before — the show has been listed for removal in past years, only to be quietly renewed at the last moment. A few people even suspect this routine might act as a subtle nudge to get viewers to binge one more time.

However, there’s a growing feeling that this time might be different. Many fans point out that HBO Max, the streaming service that owns the rights to Friends, is preparing its long-awaited UK launch in early 2026. If the platform wants a strong incentive to attract new British subscribers, reclaiming one of the world’s most rewatchable sitcoms would certainly do it.

Unsurprisingly, people have been venting online. One fan wrote, “Nooooo!!!! I listen to Friends every night to help me fall asleep. What am I gonna do now?” Others admitted the show is part of their nightly routine, with one user confessing, “I thought I am the only one going all insane over Friends.”

There’s also irritation at the ever-growing number of streaming subscriptions. As one person put it, “The idea of content being split across ANOTHER streaming service is so annoying.” Some viewers, though, are leaning on old-school solutions. “I have the DVDs and a DVD player for this reason,” one fan said, while another agreed: “Same... now I don't care which streaming service is getting Friends next.”

Also Read: Friends spin-off Joey releases its last eight unseen episodes after 20 years

Six friends in their twenties, all trying to make a life for themselves in Manhattan, lean on each other as they navigate the ups and downs of adulthood. They’re figuring things out as they go — juggling work, relationships, money worries and family drama — but they never have to face any of it alone.

Between the chaos, the awkward romantic entanglements, the arguments, the heartfelt moments and the unexpected twists life throws at them, this close-knit group discovers what true friendship really looks like: showing up, laughing together, crying together and growing together, no matter what.