Netflix subscribers in the UK have been dealt a significant blow on the first day of 2026, with the sudden removal of the entire Wizarding World film catalogue from the platform.
As of January 1, 2026, all eight original Harry Potter films and the three Fantastic Beasts spin-off movies have officially vanished from Netflix's UK library. This mass exodus follows hot on the heels of the departure of the sitcom Friends, creating a double dose of disappointment for fans hoping for a cosy, binge-watching New Year's Day.
Fan Reaction and the Search for Alternatives
The news has sparked considerable upset on social media, with viewers expressing their frustration online. One user, @grandebyhoran, directly addressed Netflix UK, stating the removal was 'the cause of my sadness and depression'. Another, @nabokovology, speculated the move could be a strategic play ahead of the upcoming HBO Max Harry Potter television series.
For those now wondering where to watch, the options in the UK are currently limited. The Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films are now only available to rent or purchase via digital retailers. This situation may change later in the year with the anticipated UK launch of the HBO Max streaming service, which is expected to become the franchise's new streaming home.
A Wider Wave of High-Profile Departures
The loss of the Wizarding World is not an isolated incident. It forms part of a broader wave of licence expirations impacting Netflix's catalogue as the new year begins. Among the other major titles leaving the platform are the iconic series Friends and Mad Men.
The film selection has also taken a hit, with popular titles including Baby Driver, Mad Max: Fury Road, The Goonies, Aquaman, and the Kung Fu Panda trilogy all being removed. This significant churn of content underscores the ongoing volatility in the streaming landscape, as studios increasingly reassess where to place their most valuable intellectual property.
The departure of such staple titles signals that viewers should prepare for more potential turbulence in the months ahead, as the battle for streaming rights continues to reshape what's available on our screens.
