Time is running out for fans of a certain marmalade-loving bear from Peru. The cherished 2014 live-action film 'Paddington' will be removed from Netflix in the UK on Tuesday, December 31, giving viewers just a final few days to enjoy this modern family classic.
A Beloved Tale Faces Its Departure
Starring Ben Whishaw as the voice of the iconic bear, the film features a stellar British cast including Hugh Bonneville, Sally Hawkins, Julie Walters, Jim Broadbent, and Peter Capaldi. Nicole Kidman delivers a memorable performance as the story's villain. The plot follows the rare bear from "darkest Peru" as he arrives in London and is taken in by the Brown family, leading to a heartwarming story about immigration, kindness, and finding a home.
Despite not being a Christmas film, Paddington has become a firm festive favourite for many households. The film boasts an impressive 96% critics' score on Rotten Tomatoes, cementing its status as one of the finest children's franchise films in recent memory.
What's Staying and What's Going?
Subscribers need not despair entirely for the franchise. Paddington 2, which holds a near-perfect 99% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, will remain available on the platform. Furthermore, the third instalment, Paddington in Peru, is not scheduled to leave until January 7, 2026.
However, the original film's exit is part of a larger wave of content removals. A host of other major titles are also set to vanish from Netflix as the year turns, making for a potential last-minute binge-watch session over the New Year period.
Key Titles Leaving Netflix Soon
Departing December 31:
- Paddington
- Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone
- Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them
- Minority Report
- Superbad
- Split
- Just Go With It
Departing in Early January:
- Jaws (January 1)
- Crazy Stupid Love (January 3)
- Forrest Gump (January 4)
- Paddington in Peru (January 7)
- Oppenheimer (January 11)
Fans of the wizarding world can take some solace, as only the first Harry Potter film is departing; the rest of the main franchise will stay on Netflix for now.
Where to Find Paddington Next
For those who miss the streaming window, the story of the polite bear continues to thrive in other forms. A successful stage musical adaptation is currently running in London's West End, offering another way to experience the adventure. The film's impending departure serves as a timely reminder of the transient nature of streaming library content, urging viewers to catch their favourites while they can.
So, if you're planning a cosy, film-filled transition into the New Year, make sure to add Paddington to your list before the final credits roll on its Netflix availability at the end of the month.
