Netflix has secured a landmark global streaming agreement valued at $500 million with AMC Global Media to bring the entire Walking Dead franchise to international audiences. This multi-year deal grants Netflix co-exclusive rights to the original series along with all six spin-offs, totaling 371 episodes. The partnership significantly expands Netflix’s reach beyond the US, extending availability to countries including the UK, Italy, Australia, and New Zealand.

While Netflix has streamed The Walking Dead in the US since 2011, this new arrangement marks a change as Netflix will now share streaming rights with AMC+, ending its longtime exclusive control over the content. The sizable price tag places this licensing deal among the highest-cost TV agreements in recent history, emphasizing Netflix’s commitment to locking down established, fan-favorite franchises. This move aligns with trends showing viewers favoring binge-worthy shows with extensive episode libraries.

Starting in 2027, Netflix subscribers worldwide will gain access not only to the original series but also to spin-offs like Fear the Walking Dead, World Beyond, Dead City, Daryl Dixon, and The Ones Who Live. The timing coincides with Dead City’s third season and the upcoming final season of Daryl Dixon, reinforcing the franchise’s strong ongoing engagement. Netflix’s strategy leans on proven content to bolster subscriber viewing hours amid challenges with retaining audiences for new series.

AMC Networks also benefited financially from the deal, using the announcement alongside their recent quarterly earnings report to raise guidance for future performance. This agreement adds to Netflix’s growing catalogue of high-profile shows, joining other prominent acquisitions like The Office and Sesame Street as part of its broader plan to maintain subscriber growth and engagement in a competitive streaming market.