AMC and Netflix have reportedly agreed on a $500 million streaming deal that could expand the reach of the Walking Dead franchise to more countries and platforms. A successful deal could pave the way for additional seasons and spin-offs to be available to viewers who don’t subscribe to AMC+.
The reported Walking Dead Netflix deal could rank among AMC’s biggest franchise licensing moves. But total value, length of contract, shows included and regional rights have not been independently verified.
More Walking Dead Shows Could Come To Netflix
Netflix has been streaming some seasons of The Walking Dead in a number of markets, but a wider deal could bring more of the franchise to the service.
Newer spin-offs featuring characters such as Daryl Dixon, Maggie, Negan, Rick and Michonne may be on the way. The exact catalogue would probably vary depending on the country, as the streaming rights are usually split between regional distributors.
A larger Netflix library would allow viewers to keep up with the franchise without having to jump between a number of services.
AMC Could Get Big Licensing Revenue
A $500 million deal would mean AMC Networks gets a lot of licensing revenue from content it already owns or distributes.
Streaming deals let media companies continue to make money off past seasons, while pushing new shows. AMC could use the revenue to help fund production, marketing and future franchise development.
The figure reported may be for several years, areas and programmes, not one payment.
New viewers could find the franchise
Netflix’s recommendation system may introduce The Walking Dead to viewers who missed it during its original TV run.
It could also be grouped with horror, action, survival and post-apocalyptic franchises, which will help it appeal to a younger audience and subscribers overseas. Older shows tend to experience a resurgence when they’re added to a major streaming service.
That new attention could also help rekindle interest in existing spin-offs and projects to come.
AMC Plus Could Keep Early Access
It’s not necessarily the case that The Walking Dead content would be taken off AMC+.
AMC would still get first run of new episodes, but Netflix would get the complete season after a mutually agreed upon delay. That would allow AMC to protect its direct subscription business, while leveraging Netflix for wider distribution.
Some programmes may remain exclusive to AMC+ depending on the final contract.
Release Windows May Change
Fans may get a new release model where episodes debut on AMC and AMC+ before hitting Netflix months later.
Timing may vary by show and location. Some seasons might be added quickly, others might stay exclusive for longer.
Clear release schedules will be key to letting viewers know when and where to find each series.
