With 2025 about to end, Netflix will bid farewell to two of its most cherished sitcoms. Audiences worldwide are steeling themselves for the departure of ‘Friends’ and ‘The Big Bang Theory’, which will leave the platform on December 30, 2025, reportedly.
‘Friends’: The home we kept coming back to
Since its premiere in September 1994, Friends has been much more than a sitcom. The tales of Ross, Rachel, Monica, Chandler, Joey, and Phoebe created a template for American sitcoms and introduced worldwide audiences to the charm of New York-based humour. Decades later, the show continues to be a daily watch for many, holding a special place in the hearts of fans across generations. Netflix's removal of the show marks the end of an era for binge-watchers who've grown up with the series.
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‘The Big Bang Theory’: The universe that made nerds feel seen
The Big Bang Theory, from the mind of Chuck Lorre and airing since 2007, brought "nerd culture" to the mainstream. Starring Jim Parsons, Johnny Galecki, Kaley Cuoco, Simon Helberg, Kunal Nayyar, Melissa Rauch, and Mayim Bialik, it followed the lives of awkward but lovable friends. Audiences were taken through 12 seasons of growth, friendships, and romantic escapades. This series, while leaving Netflix, is still available on Amazon Prime Video.
Both Friends and The Big Bang Theory enjoyed audiences of millions not only in the US but also internationally. Both shows continued through various spin-offs, such as Young Sheldon, and multiple references to the shows in other media formats.
Reportedly, several other fan-favourite titles are also set to exit the platform soon. Shows and films like -‘Shadowhunters: The Mortal Instruments’, ‘The Amazing Spider-Man’ franchise, 'Barbie', 'Dare Me’, 'The Exorcism of Emily Rose', 'Happy Gilmore', ‘Sing’, ‘Scooby-Doo!: Mystery Incorporated’,
The emotional meltdown fans didn’t see coming
Fans across social media platforms are pouring their hearts out. A user on X (formerly Twitter) wrote, “Ah well, Shall be canceling my @netflixaccount end of this month as they are removing friends and big bang theory. Its the only 2 shows i really watch on there due to my AuDHD and the need to rewatch my "safe" shows that help me get to sleep.”
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Another user wrote, “Netflix removing Big Bang Theory and Friends is the most heart breaking piece of information I’ve received December is ruined - thanks Netflix”
Many echoed the same sentiment, writing, “Absolutely raging, @netflix are taking Friends and Big Bang. Two shows I watch repeatedly to fall asleep, to help me do jobs around the house - two big 'strategies' that help with my ADHD. Literally use them daily, have done for years. What the f*** is wrong with them?!”
The most common emotion, however, is pure confusion and sadness, summed up perfectly by a fan who wrote, “Actually can’t believe they’re removing Friends from Netflix at the end of the year, that’s my comfort show, what am I going to watch now??”
