Why Netflix Removes Shows
Netflix operates on a rotating content library, with licensing agreements that have specific timeframes and expiration dates. When these agreements end, Netflix must either renew the contract—often at increasing costs as shows gain popularity—or remove the content. This business model allows Netflix to maintain a fresh catalogue while managing costs effectively. As a result, viewers can expect shows leaving Netflix May 2025 as part of this regular content rotation.
Even Netflix Originals are not immune to removal. Many “Netflix Original” shows are actually licensed for a fixed period, after which the rights revert to the original production studios. This explains why beloved Netflix-branded shows occasionally disappear from the platform, contributing to the list of shows leaving Netflix May 2025.
Why You Should Watch These Shows Before They Leave
With several high-quality shows departing in May 2025, there’s an urgency to catch these gems before they’re gone. Many of these titles have garnered critical acclaim, amassed devoted followings, and earned prestigious awards. Once removed, they may move to other streaming platforms requiring additional subscriptions, or worse – become temporarily unavailable on any streaming service during the transition.
May 2025’s departures include particularly noteworthy titles like the entire Spider-Man collection (both live-action and animated), acclaimed political drama “Madam Secretary,” critically lauded “Boiling Point,” and Richard Curtis’s heartwarming “About Time.” Whether you’re looking for action, drama, comedy, or animation, there’s something worth prioritizing before it leaves the platform.
Complete List of Shows Leaving Netflix in May 2025
About Time (2013)
Original Release Date: September 4, 2013
Netflix Leaving Date: May 1, 2025
Synopsis: When 21-year-old Tim Lake (Domhnall Gleeson) discovers he can time travel, he uses his unique ability to pursue the woman of his dreams, Mary (Rachel McAdams). While he can’t change history, Tim attempts to improve his life by winning his love’s heart through time travel and gentle persistence. However, as his extraordinary life unfolds, Tim realizes that his special power can’t shield him and those he loves from life’s ordinary challenges.
Critical Reception: “About Time” holds a 68% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising its sincerity and emotional impact, though some found it overly sentimental. Audiences rated it significantly higher at 82%, appreciating its blend of romance, comedy, and poignant family moments.
Interesting Trivia: Though marketed as a romantic comedy, director Richard Curtis has stated that the film is ultimately about the relationship between father and son. Bill Nighy, who plays Tim’s father, has called it one of his favourite roles. The film has gained a cult following over the years, with many viewers considering it an underappreciated gem in Richard Curtis’s filmography.
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (2023)
Original Release Date: June 2, 2023
Netflix Leaving Date: May 1, 2025
Synopsis: Miles Morales returns in this ambitious sequel that expands the Spider-Verse. When a powerful new villain threatens the multiverse, Miles joins forces with Gwen Stacy and a team of Spider-People from across dimensions. However, as Miles confronts different visions of what it means to be a hero, he finds himself at odds with the other Spiders over how to handle the growing crisis.
Critical Reception: The film was a critical darling with a stunning 96% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics and audiences alike praised its groundbreaking animation style, compelling story, and emotional depth. The film won the Best Animated Feature at the 2024 Critics Choice Awards, Annie Awards, and was nominated for an Academy Award.
Interesting Trivia: “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” received over 100 awards and nominations, including wins at the Annie Awards where it dominated with seven victories. The film’s animation pushed technical boundaries by combining multiple animation styles and techniques. It was originally conceived as part of a two-part story, with the conclusion set to arrive in “Beyond the Spider-Verse.”
Madam Secretary (Seasons 1-6)
Original Release Date: September 21, 2014 (TV premiere)
Netflix Leaving Date: May 15, 2025
Synopsis: Elizabeth McCord (Téa Leoni), a former CIA analyst and political science professor, unexpectedly becomes the U.S. Secretary of State after her predecessor dies under mysterious circumstances. The series follows Elizabeth as she navigates international diplomacy, Washington politics, and family life, bringing her unique perspective and moral conviction to complex global issues.
Critical Reception: “Madam Secretary” garnered positive reviews throughout its six-season run, with critics praising Téa Leoni’s performance and the show’s intelligent approach to political storylines. While it didn’t collect major awards, it maintained a loyal viewership and was praised for its realistic portrayal of diplomacy and government operations.
Interesting Trivia: The show featured numerous cameos from real-life former Secretaries of State, including Madeleine Albright, Colin Powell, and Hillary Clinton. Creator Barbara Hall consulted with former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright to ensure authenticity in the portrayal of the position. All six seasons (120 episodes) will be leaving Netflix after being on the platform for five years since the final season was added.
Boiling Point (Limited Series)
Original Release Date: October 1, 2023 (TV premiere)
Netflix Leaving Date: May 1, 2025
Synopsis: Following the events of the 2021 film of the same name, this BBC series continues the story of high-pressure restaurant life. With head chef Andy Jones (Stephen Graham) recovering from his heart attack, sous chef Carly (Vinette Robinson) steps up to open a new restaurant called Point North. The series explores the intense professional and personal challenges facing the kitchen staff as they pursue culinary excellence amidst chaos.
Critical Reception: “Boiling Point” received exceptional reviews, with a 100% “Fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics praised its tense atmosphere, realistic portrayal of kitchen life, and outstanding performances, particularly from Vinette Robinson. The series has been described as “British TV at its finest” and “a worthy continuation” of the acclaimed film.
Interesting Trivia: The series was filmed using long, immersive takes similar to the original film, which was famously shot in one continuous take. Real chefs consulted on the production to ensure authenticity. Stephen Graham and his real-life wife Hannah Walters both appear in the series, with Walters’ performance as Emily receiving particular praise from critics.
White Gold (Seasons 1-2)
Original Release Date: May 24, 2017 (TV premiere)
Netflix Leaving Date: May 22, 2025
Synopsis: Set in Essex, England, during the 1980s, “White Gold” follows the exploits of unscrupulous double-glazing window salesman Vincent Swan (Ed Westwick) and his team of misfit salespeople. The series chronicles their questionable sales tactics, office politics, and personal dramas against the backdrop of Thatcher-era Britain’s economic changes.
Critical Reception: The series received generally positive reviews for its nostalgic ’80s setting and sharp humor. Critics particularly praised Ed Westwick’s charismatic performance as the morally bankrupt Vincent Swan. While some critics compared it to “The Wolf of Wall Street” with its fourth-wall-breaking narration, it carved out its own identity with distinctly British humor.
Interesting Trivia: The show stars James Buckley and Joe Thomas from the popular British comedy “The Inbetweeners.” The title “White Gold” refers to the PVC used in double-glazing windows that were aggressively sold in 1980s Britain. The series was created by Damon Beesley, who also co-created “The Inbetweeners,” and features similar irreverent humor.
The Batman (Animated Series, Seasons 1-5)
Original Release Date: September 11, 2004 (TV premiere)
Netflix Leaving Date: May 22, 2025
Synopsis: This stylish animated series presents a younger version of Batman in his early years fighting crime in Gotham City. The show reimagines the Dark Knight with unique character designs and a focus on his detective skills rather than gadgets. As Batman establishes himself as Gotham’s protector, he faces both classic villains and new threats.
Critical Reception: “The Batman” received mixed reviews initially as it departed from the beloved “Batman: The Animated Series” style, but gained appreciation over its run. The show won multiple Daytime Emmy Awards for its animation and developed a dedicated following for its fresh take on familiar characters.
Interesting Trivia: The series introduced novel interpretations of Batman villains, particularly the Joker, who appears with dreadlocks and barefoot. It ran for five seasons and 65 episodes between 2004 and 2008. “The Batman” eventually crossed over with the Justice League, expanding its universe in later seasons.
Justice League & Justice League Unlimited (All Seasons)
Original Release Date: November 17, 2001 (Justice League premiere)
Netflix Leaving Date: May 8, 2025
Synopsis: “Justice League” follows DC’s premier superhero team—Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, Flash, Green Lantern, Martian Manhunter, and Hawkgirl—as they unite to protect Earth from threats too great for any single hero. “Justice League Unlimited” expands the roster to include dozens of DC heroes, tackling increasingly complex storylines and moral dilemmas.
Critical Reception: Both series are considered high points in superhero animation, praised for mature storytelling, character development, and action sequences. The shows have maintained cult status and are frequently cited as definitive adaptations of the DC Universe characters.
Interesting Trivia: “Justice League” and “Justice League Unlimited” form part of the DC Animated Universe that began with “Batman: The Animated Series.” Voice actor Kevin Conroy, who passed away in 2022, provided the iconic voice of Batman throughout the series. The show’s writers included future prominent comic book authors like Dwayne McDuffie and J.M. DeMatteis.
Rugrats (Seasons 1-2)
Original Release Date: August 11, 1991 (TV premiere)
Netflix Leaving Date: May 1, 2025
Synopsis: This beloved animated series follows the adventures of a group of toddlers—Tommy, Chuckie, Phil, Lil, and the bossy Angelica—as they explore their world through imagination and misunderstanding. Viewed from the perspective of the babies, ordinary situations become extraordinary adventures.
Critical Reception: “Rugrats” is considered a classic Nickelodeon series that enjoyed both critical acclaim and commercial success. The show won multiple Emmy Awards and spawned movies, merchandise, and spin-offs. Its clever writing appealed to both children and adults.
Interesting Trivia: “Rugrats” ran for nine seasons between 1991 and 2004, becoming one of Nickelodeon’s longest-running and most successful animated series. The show’s innovative perspective—showing the world from a baby’s point of view—influenced many subsequent children’s programs. Only the first two seasons are leaving Netflix, but these contain many of the series’ most iconic episodes.
Insidious: The Red Door (2023)
Original Release Date: July 7, 2023
Netflix Leaving Date: May 4, 2025
Synopsis: The fifth installment in the Insidious franchise follows Josh Lambert (Patrick Wilson) as he travels to the east coast to drop his son, Dalton (Ty Simpkins), off at school. However, Dalton’s college dream quickly turns into a nightmare when the repressed demons of his past return to haunt both father and son, forcing them to return to the terrifying realm of The Further.
Critical Reception: “Insidious: The Red Door” received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for Patrick Wilson’s directorial debut and the performances, though some felt the scares were predictable for franchise veterans. The film was commercially successful, grossing over $188 million worldwide against a modest budget.
Interesting Trivia: This was Patrick Wilson’s directorial debut and was marketed as the final chapter of the Lambert family saga that began in the original “Insidious” (2010). The film reunites the original cast members from the first movie, providing closure to their storyline after more than a decade.
Conclusion
These departing shows represent some of the most diverse and acclaimed content on Netflix, spanning animation, political drama, comedy, romance, and horror. With only days or weeks left to watch them, now is the perfect time to plan your binge-watching schedule. Whether revisiting a favourite like the Spider-Man films or discovering the critically acclaimed “Boiling Point” for the first time, these titles deserve your attention before they leave the platform.
Remember to share this article with fellow Netflix subscribers who might want to catch these shows before they disappear. The streaming landscape is constantly evolving, and staying informed about content changes helps ensure you don’t miss out on watching these gems while they’re still conveniently available.
