Netflix and AMC+ Secure Exclusive Streaming Rights to The Walking Dead Universe in $500 Million Deal

Netflix and AMC Global Media have formalized a five-year, $500 million co-exclusive licensing agreement that will bring The Walking Dead franchise and its entire universe of six spinoff series to both streaming platforms starting in 2027. The deal represents a significant restructuring of how one of entertainment's most successful franchises will be distributed globally, with each platform gaining access to 371 episodes across multiple territories on staggered launch dates.

Scope of the Global Agreement

The co-exclusive pact encompasses the original series alongside all six spinoffs: Fear the Walking Dead, The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon, The Walking Dead: Dead City, The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live, The Walking Dead: World Beyond, and Tales of The Walking Dead. Netflix previously held exclusive U.S. streaming rights since 2011, while the main series never appeared on AMC+ in its original form. Under this arrangement, both platforms will offer the complete catalogue, though licensing dates will vary by geographic region following the expiration of existing agreements.

AMC Global Media CEO Kristin Dolan emphasized that the partnership creates unified global access to the franchise. "This deal creates a global destination for this universe – all shows, all episodes – making the franchise more accessible than ever to fans around the world," Dolan stated. The agreement also enables AMC+ to introduce the original Walking Dead series to its subscribers for the first time early next year.

Netflix's Continued Role in Franchise Success

Netflix Vice President of Licensing Lori Conkling noted that the platform has been instrumental in building the franchise's audience over nearly 15 years. "Audiences have discovered and loved The Walking Dead on Netflix for nearly 15 years and the show continues to attract new fans," Conkling said, adding that the partnership will "expand that access to more audiences around the world and bring the entirety of The Walking Dead Universe to Netflix" in territories including the United Kingdom, Italy, Australia, and New Zealand.