UPDATE: Well, here’s a twist: a source at BBC has confirmed to us that Doctor Who will NOT be included in the BBC’s standalone streaming service. So it looks like Who leaving is not at all associated. Please upgrade the hive mind accordingly, Cybermen.
PREVIOUSLY: Looks like we’re all going to be in the market for a TARDIS soon. Because that’s the only way we’re going to be able to live in a time where watching classic and new era Doctor Who on Netflix and Hulu is possible. BBC announced this week that both streaming services would stop hosting the show.
Netflix made the announcement earlier this week, in their monthly press release about what’s new and leaving (nothing really all that odd, considering it happens all the time). It should be noted though—thanks to this tweet from Netflix to us—that this is just for US customers:
@nerdist This only affects the United States service. Been a great 5 yrs. w/ the Doctor, but promise to look after Matt and David.
— Netflix US (@netflix) January 27, 2016
However, when it was revealed that the series would also take a bow from Hulu, that—of course—got worried Whovians tongues a-wagging. Because even with all of time and space on our side, this doesn’t necessarily feel coincidental.
Of course, there’s always the chance it is, but it seems far more likely that BBC is going the way of other networks—like CBS, HBO, Showtime, and even their BBC America counterpart’s sister network AMC—and preparing for their own subscription service launch very soon. The Guardian reported on its arrival in September of last year.
“We’re launching a new OTT [over-the-top] video service in America offering BBC fans programs they wouldn’t otherwise get, showcasing British actors, our program-makers and celebrating our culture,” BBC’s director general, Tony Hall, explained at an industry convention last year.
So, perhaps the time is coming sooner than you think! Don’t blink, lest you miss it.
Nerdist has reached out to Hulu, BBC, and Netflix for comment about the development, but had yet to hear back at the time of publication.
What do you think of the news? Would you join a BBC subscription service? Let us know in the comments below.
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HT: Decider
Image Credit: BBC America
Alicia Lutes is the Managing Editor of The Nerdist and would probably make a B+ companion for The Doctor. Find her on Twitter (@alicialutes).
