Netflix Instant

Once simply an on-demand Internet streaming service, Netflix Instant changed the streaming platform for the better by becoming a distributer of original content. Netflix Instant not only acquired the rights to instantly stream popular movie and TV titles, but it's also competing with major TV networks by distributing original series, such as Emmy-nominated 'House of Cards,' 'Orange Is the New Black' and the latest season of 'Arrested Development.' In addition to expanding with more scripted series, Netflix Instant will become the destination for Marvel's highly anticipated 'The Defenders' series, which will include standalone series for 'Daredevil,' 'Luke Cage,' 'Jessica Jones' and 'Iron Fist' before culminating in an 'Avengers'-style miniseries team-up event.

Founded: August 29, 1997 (Netflix, Inc.); 2007 (introduced streaming service)
Founders: Reed Hastings, Marc Randolph

Original Netflix Instant Series: ‘House of Cards,’ ‘Orange Is the New Black,’ ‘Hemlock Grove,’ ‘Arrested Development‘ (season 4), ‘Lillyhammer,’ ‘The Killing‘ (season 4), ‘Star Wars: The Clone Wars‘ (“The Lost Missions”), ‘Sense8,’ ‘Marco Polo,’ ‘Narcos,’ ‘BoJack Horseman,’ ‘Daredevil,’ ‘Jessica Jones,’ ‘Iron Fist,’ ‘Luke Cage,’ ‘The Defenders.’

Netflix's 'BoJack Horseman' Might Move to Regular TV

Those looking to catch up on a given Netflix series are more likely to buy (or borrow) a subscription than look for Blu-rays, but there may yet be a third option. Reports indicate that BoJack Horseman may strike a rare syndication deal that would see episodes of the acclaimed comedy airing on regular TV, rather than Netflix.

Kevin Fitzpatrick

'Black Mirror's Self-Driving Pizza Trucks Are Now Reality

Of all the dark, dystopian tech Black Mirror has devised in four seasons, we never thought pizza would betray us. And yet, our inexorable slide into Charlie Brooker’s digital nightmare continues, as Pizza Hut will soon have self-driving trucks out to murder us all.

Kevin Fitzpatrick

Netflix 'Sabrina' Casts Kiernan Shipka in the Title Role

You won’t have to work very hard to conjure excitement for this one. Our new Netflix Sabrina has been found, as Mad Men alum Kiernan Shipka has landed the title role of the Riverdale spinoff-turned Netflix drama.

Kevin Fitzpatrick

David Letterman Netflix Series 'Next Guest' Sets January Premiere

A voice we’ve dearly missed is finally coming back to late night. David Letterman has officially booked his Netflix debut with new series My Next Guest Needs No Introduction; setting a monthly schedule with guests like George Clooney and Barack Obama. Watch the first teaser!

Kevin Fitzpatrick

'Punisher' Star Jon Bernthal Talks Gun Control and Alt-Right Fans

Marvel’s Punisher spinoff was destined to spur gun debates, especially after delaying its premiere over Las Vegas’ shootings. Now, a new interview sees star Jon Bernthal weighing a need for dialogue with his own status as a gun-owner, while simultaneously delivering a pointed rebuke to alt-right fans.

Kevin Fitzpatrick

Dave Chappelle Criticizes Louis C.K. Accusers in New Special

Dave Chappelle managed to address the controversy surrounding last year’s standup specials, and ignite a new one all at once. The comedian’s latest Netflix standup offers a measured response to jokes about Caitlyn Jenner and the transgender community, though a subsequent special sees Chappelle questioning both the #MeToo movement and fellow comedian Louis C.K.’s accusers.

Kevin Fitzpatrick

Spike Lee's 'She's Gotta Have It' Renewed for Season 2 on Netflix

The original structure of Spike Lee’s 1986 She’s Gotta Have It was well-suited to a TV adaptation, but where might Netflix take it in Season 2? We’ll find out, as both Lee and star DeWanda Wise confirm Nola Darling will keep living that Brooklyn life another season.

Kevin Fitzpatrick

Apple Might Buy Netflix, According to Industry Analysts

In this era of giant media corporations swallowing one another, another major acquisition might be on the horizon. Industry analysts are predicting that an influx of Apple cash might soon lead to a flashy purchase for the tech giant; with Netflix itself painted as a prime target.

Kevin Fitzpatrick

'Series of Unfortunate Events' Season 2 Tease Sets March Premiere

Your happy new year has just taken an Unfortunate turn. Netflix and Count Olaf have a new message for you, as Season 2 of A Series of Unfortunate Events has officially booked a late March premiere with some miserable new footage.

Kevin Fitzpatrick

'Black Mirror' Season 4 Had Kirsten Dunst and Aaron Paul Cameo

The character only briefly enters from the left and disappears off-screen a moment later as Nanette Cole (Milioti) meets the rest of her co-workers. Judging by the side-eye, we have to imagine Dunst is keeping close watch on the object of her (fictional) fiancé’s gaze. Admittedly, we may be projecting.

Kevin Fitzpatrick