Channel 4 secures Friends for free viewing from January 2027

Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 15 Oct, 15:58 · Archive

Channel 4 has secured the rights to broadcast Friends free-to-air from January 2027. The decision marks the return of the sitcom to UK free-to-air television for the first time in 11 years, following its removal from Netflix earlier this year.

The show originally aired on Channel 4 before moving between networks over the years. It became available on Netflix in the UK until being removed from the platform, after which it found a new home on HBO Max from 26 March.

Channel 4 said the Emmy Award-winning sitcom follows six friends—Rachel, Monica, Phoebe, Ross, Chandler and Joey—as they navigate life, love and work in New York City. The series, which debuted in 1994, comprises 236 episodes across ten seasons.

The show became a global phenomenon and cultural touchstone, launching the careers of its cast: Courteney Cox, Jennifer Aniston, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, David Schwimmer and the late Matthew Perry. Channel 4 described it as 'one of the most watched and celebrated comedy series of all time'.

Until the 2027 broadcast begins, viewers in the UK can watch Friends on HBO Max with a subscription. The return to Channel 4 will make the series accessible to free-to-air television audiences once more.

How it is being reported

• Iconic sitcom Friends will be free to watch in UK after 11 years as new deal struckChannel 4 has announced it has secured the rights to stream beloved series Friends, meaning it will once again be free to watch in the UK.News Shopper · 15 Oct, 15:22
• Iconic sitcom Friends will be free to watch in UK after 11 years as new deal struckChannel 4 has announced it has secured the rights to stream beloved series Friends, meaning it will once again be free to watch in the UK.Wandsworth Guardian · 15 Oct, 15:22
• Iconic sitcom Friends will be free to watch in UK after 11 years as new deal struckChannel 4 has announced it has secured the rights to stream beloved series Friends, meaning it will once again be free to watch in the UK.Croydon Guardian · 15 Oct, 15:22

In this story: Channel 4 · Netflix · HBO Max · Jennifer Aniston · Courteney Cox · Lisa Kudrow · Matt LeBlanc · David Schwimmer

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