Why Isn’t Doctor Who Series 8 Streaming on Netflix Yet?!
By Barry Rice
A few months ago, my overzealous self set out to try and predict when Doctor Who Series 8 would arrive on Netflix here in the United States. I meticulously analyzed all of the launch dates from the past few years and came to the conclusion that Peter Capaldi’s first series would be streaming sometime in mid-to-late June.
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Well, now June has come and gone, and not only is Doctor Who Series 8 still not available, it’s not listed among the titles announced for July either! So what the hell, Netflix? Where is Series 8?!
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Honestly, no one knows. Netflix hasn’t said anything, and the BBC isn’t talking either. It’s entirely possible the show could still pop up sometime in July. Even though Netflix announces their new releases at the beginning of each month, it’s never a comprehensive list, and they like to sneak in little surprises every chance they get.
Another bit of speculation I would put forth is centered around San Diego Comic-Con. Details about the upcoming Series 9 have been extremely light, but Doctor Who is hosting a huge panel at this year’s nerdfest, complete with Peter Capaldi, Jenna Coleman, Steven Moffat, and producer Brian Minchin. It’s my sincere belief the BBC is holding back all of their cards until next week’s Comic-Con (July 9-12). I’m expecting to see a trailer for Series 9 and a host of new details. After that, the hype machine will be in full effect, teasing us with new Doctor Who goodness all the way up to the fall premiere.
So what does that have to do with Series 8 on Netflix? Well, it’s possible that holding up Series 8 is part of the marketing plan for Doctor Who Series 9. After a new trailer is released and the hype train is rolling full steam ahead, releasing Series 8 on Netflix would further heighten anticipation for the fall Series 9 premiere. That’s a crap move, but, hey — that’s marketing.
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So if Doctor Who Series 8 does appear out of nowhere on Netflix sometimes this month, my money would be on it occurring right after Comic-Con. Otherwise, at this point I’m thinking they’re going to wait all the way until August, which is absolutely ridiculous. There’s a fine line between driving up interest and risking some fans losing interest.
At any rate, keep your browser pointed here at Doctor Who Watch; as soon as we get official confirmation on a Series 8 Netflix release, you’ll be the first to know.
UPDATE 07/27/2015: Netflix has finally announced the release date for Doctor Who Series 8! For all the details, check out our newest post, “Finally! Doctor Who Series 8 Coming to Netflix in August!”
What do you think? When will Doctor Who Series 8 premiere on Netflix? Why the delay this year? Sound off in the comments below!
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