Showtime To Pull Current Shows Off Netflix
Showtime’s current deal with video streaming company Netflix is up in the summer, and as part of its renegotiations, the pay cable network has informed Netflix that it will no longer make its current original series available under the new pact. Right now, all Showtime series are accessible for Netflix subscribers. Showtime CEO Matt Blank talked about the network’s plans in an interview with Crain’s New York Business, which first reported the move. “With all the options out there, we want to be sure people know they have to subscribe to see Dexter or The Borgias,” Blank said. Through a Showtime spokesperson, the network clarified that under the proposed new Netflix deal, series such The Tudors and Sleeper Cell, which no longer air originals, will continue to be available to Netflix subscribers. As for current and past seasons of Showtime’s current original series, they “will be available to our authenticated subscribers via our TV Everywhere service Showtime Anytime,” the spokesperson said.
The move is part of Showtime’s efforts to protect its on-air shows and was not connected to Netflix’s announcement last week that it plans to enter the original series arena with the David Fincher-Kevin Spacey drama House of Cards.
Why would Showtime do something so daft? Don’t they pay people to tell them how to promote their shows? Like the second commenter, I too know a few people who got hooked on Dexter the very same way — watching the first season on Netflix. And these are people who would never, ever watch that show, and who ended up buying the DVDs and because of it are planning on subscribing to Showtime once the new season starts.
None of this would have happened if they hadn’t had the pressure-free ability to sample it on Netflix. I have the show queued up. But once Showtime removes it, they can rest assured no amount of money they spend on bus banners will get me to go out and buy DVDs or — jesus — subscribe to Showtime.
I’m just one person, but a dick move is a dick move. Guess we won’t be talking about Dexter at our next get togethers.
Basil, don’t give milk any ideas.
Why do the studios hate Netflix, 30 day wait etc. I’m sure you can still rent Showtime’s shows at Blockbuster.
Blockbuster stores still exist??
Looks like I’ll be illegally watching Dexter.
Good call, Showtime.
Horrible idea. Everyone here is right – people use netflix to legally catch up on current shows. You take away netflix, people will just find illegal ways to do it. Stupid move.
People don’t use Netflix primarily because it’s legal and they’re law-abiding citizens. They use Netflix because it helps them avoid subscription fees or having to watch commercials. Just see all the comments here — “can’t get Dexter on Netflix anymore? that’s cool, i’ll just go steal it.”
How is it avoiding subscription fees if you have to subscribe to Netflix?
Showtime would be on Dexter’s table about now.
Never had Netflix, and never will.
Dumb move. Instead of pulling all your current series, just put a longer lag of what seasons you put on Netflix. You’re going to miss a chance to promote. Instead of the most recent season available on DVD, put a 2-3 season gap…
Why not at least keep the first season of Dexter, Weeds, and other Showtime shows up? Hook them with the first chunk of episodes and they’ll seek out DVDs or subscriptions to see more.
It would be nice if ShowTime would offer a streaming service separate from the cable companies or even if Netflix charged a couple dollars extra for ShowTime content to the people who want it that would be okay. My purpose for using Netflix and Hulu Plus is to get away from the cable/satellite companies that charge me for 200 channels I don’t watch so I can get the 5 that I do watch. If Showtime and/or HBO offered a streaming service not connected to the cable companies I would subscribe to them, but I will not upgrade my cable to digital for an extra $30 a month just to subscribe to Showtime. Cable One does not offer Showtime on the Analog package, at least in my area anyway.
I totally agree with you!! Why cant I download an app on my smart TV for Showtime or HBO and pay a small fee to view shows like true blood or whatever.