The beloved American sitcom Friends is set to make a triumphant return to UK streaming screens this March, following its removal from Netflix last year. This revival comes as part of the highly anticipated launch of HBO Max in the United Kingdom, promising to fill the void left for dedicated fans who have missed their comfort-watch staple.
HBO Max UK Launch Details
HBO Max will officially debut in the UK on Thursday, 26 March 2026, bringing with it an extensive library of content from Warner Bros and HBO. The platform will offer monthly subscription plans starting from just £4.99, making it an accessible option for viewers eager to dive back into the world of Friends and other hit series.
What to Expect from the Platform
From its launch date, all 10 seasons of Friends will be available to stream on demand, positioning HBO Max as the exclusive UK platform for the complete series. In addition to this iconic sitcom, subscribers will gain access to a wide range of popular titles, including Euphoria, House of the Dragon, Succession, Game of Thrones, and The Sopranos. The platform will also host the upcoming Harry Potter TV series and the US medical drama The Pitt, previously unavailable in the UK.
Subscription Plans and Features
HBO Max will offer five subscription tiers to cater to different viewer preferences:
- Basic with Ads: Priced at £4.99 per month.
- Standard with Ads: Costs £5.99 monthly, allowing streaming on two devices in Full HD with 30 downloads.
- Standard Ad-Free: Available for £9.99 per month.
- Premium: Priced at £14.99 monthly, offering four-device 4K streaming with Dolby Atmos and 100 downloads.
- TNT Sports Add-On: Can be added for £30.99, either standalone or with select entertainment plans, providing live sports coverage including Premier League football, the FA Cup, UEFA Champions League, top-flight rugby, UFC, MotoGP, Grand Slam tennis, and major cycling tours.
It is important to note that HBO Max has not announced a free trial for UK subscribers, meaning access will require a paid subscription from the outset.
How to Access HBO Max
Viewers in the UK can access HBO Max through its dedicated app on smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and various streaming devices, or directly via the website. This flexibility ensures that fans can enjoy their favourite shows, including the long-awaited return of Friends, on multiple devices with ease.
The launch of HBO Max marks a significant shift in the UK streaming landscape, as major titles continue to move between rival platforms. For Friends enthusiasts, this development offers a welcome opportunity to revisit the classic series, which ceased filming over two decades ago but remains a cultural touchstone. With its competitive pricing and diverse content offerings, HBO Max is poised to become a key player in the British entertainment market.
