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Friends Will Soon Be Streaming Again in the UK – Here’s Where to Watch
The beloved sitcom Friends is set to make a triumphant return to British screens, thanks to the imminent launch of HBO Max. This development comes as a relief to fans who were left disappointed when Netflix removed the show from its catalogue at the end of last year.
A Classic Sitcom Finds a New Home
Friends, which ceased production over two decades ago, has endured as a cultural touchstone and a go-to comfort watch for millions. Its departure from Netflix occurred after the streaming giant's licensing agreement with Warner Bros expired, part of a broader reshuffling of content among competing platforms.
However, hope has been restored for enthusiasts who enjoy revisiting the adventures of Ross, Rachel, and the gang. HBO Max, an American streaming service, has confirmed its UK launch scheduled for March 2026. The platform will debut with an extensive library featuring popular series like Euphoria and House of the Dragon, but the headline news is the full availability of Friends for on-demand streaming.
Launch Details and Subscription Options
HBO Max will officially go live in the UK on Thursday, 26 March 2026. From that date, all ten seasons of Friends will be accessible, making HBO Max the exclusive destination in the UK for complete access to the series. Subscription plans are designed to cater to various preferences and budgets, starting from just £4.99 per month for a basic ad-supported tier.
In addition to Friends, subscribers will gain entry to a rich collection of Warner Bros and HBO productions, including acclaimed shows such as Succession, Game of Thrones, and The Sopranos. The platform will also serve as the future home for the upcoming Harry Potter television series and will introduce UK audiences to the US medical drama The Pitt.
Enhanced Features and Sports Integration
HBO Max offers multiple subscription tiers to enhance the viewing experience. Options range from ad-supported plans to premium ad-free packages, with the latter providing 4K streaming, Dolby Atmos sound, and the ability to download content for offline viewing. Notably, the service will integrate TNT Sports in the UK, delivering live coverage of Premier League football, the FA Cup, UEFA Champions League, top-tier rugby, UFC, MotoGP, Grand Slam tennis, and major cycling events.
Access to HBO Max will be available through dedicated apps on smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and streaming devices, as well as via its website. While a free trial has not been announced for UK users, the competitive pricing and diverse content library are expected to attract a significant subscriber base.
This launch marks a significant expansion in the UK streaming market, offering viewers a consolidated hub for entertainment and sports. For fans of Friends and other premium content, the wait is nearly over, with March 26 poised to be a landmark date for British streaming enthusiasts.
