Netflix subscribers in the U.K. and Ireland won't have to wait very long to see the final eight episodes of Breaking Bad. The streaming video service has secured a deal that will have new episodes of the AMC drama series available streaming a day after they air in the U.S. So after the mid-season premiere airs August 11, it'll be available streaming on Netflix in the U.K. on August 12. It's unclear exactly what time the episodes will be available, as it'd technically be August 12 in the U.K. when the series premieres stateside EST, but that's a technicality I doubt many will quibble over if it means not having to wait more than a day to see each remaining installment.
Variety posted the news, stating that Netflix would be bringing the second half of the fifth and final season of Breaking Bad to their U.K. and Ireland subscribers on a first-run basis. The deal seems similar to the one Amazon Prime secured for CBS' Under the Dome, except in this case, it's for overseas distribution. As Variety points out, this arrangement may help combat piracy of the series overseas. If people can get it on Netflix, they don't need to steal it illegally. And Sony makes money off the deal, so everyone wins, right? That may or may not have factored into Sony Pictures Televisions decision to enter into this arrangement but it makes sense. Regardless, it's great news for U.K. and Ireland Netflix subscribers, especially when considering just how anticipated these final eight episodes are.
Series creator Vince Gilligan sounds very happy with this arrangement, noting Netflix's role in Breaking Bad's success…
“Netflix has been instrumental in making Breaking Bad the success that it is – particularly in the U.K. and Ireland, where it has built an audience and become a huge phenomenon. I am delighted that fans there will be able to enjoy the end of ‘Breaking Bad’ on Netflix so soon after it airs in the U.S.”
It's not difficult to understand why a showrunner would appreciate Netflix bringing their series to a wider audience. Early distribution on the streaming video service gives potential new viewers the opportunity to catch up on previous seasons and get on board with the show before the next new season airs. Netflix is one of the more convenient and cost-efficient ways to try new shows out and then marathon through them. Broadening the audience even further by making it available streaming overseas is another benefit Netflix can offer a show.
If you haven't seen it, here's the excellent Breaking Bad countdown Mashup that was revealed during the Comic-Con panel last Sunday.
