Netflix is gearing up for a transformative year in 2025 as it prepares to bid farewell to several beloved original series. Among the casualties of the streaming giant's latest programming shakeup are outstanding shows like Stranger Things, Squid Game, and Cobra Kai, each having made indelible marks on the television and streaming landscapes. With endings come new beginnings, as Netflix also rolls out its 2025 content slate, teeming with fresh films and series set to capture viewers' attention.
First off, one cannot discuss Netflix's impending transformations without addressing the end of Stranger Things. The highly anticipated fifth season of the hit series is set to launch sometime this year, marking the conclusion of an era since its debut back in 2016. The show, which follows the supernatural adventures of children in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, has seen immense popularity, only continuing to grow stronger over the years. It currently stands as one of Netflix's flagship shows, having captured the hearts of millions and cemented the streamer's position as a powerhouse of original content.
Creators Matt and Ross Duffer have confirmed their five-season plan from the outset, and it seems the duo is set to provide fans with the emotional send-off they deserve. The fourth season ended with the introduction of the formidable villain Vecna, leading up to what promises to be a thrilling and satisfying finale.
Adding to Netflix's strong lineup concluding this year is Squid Game, another global sensation. The show's third season premieres on June 27, 2025, and has been labeled as the final chapter of its gripping, high-stakes narrative. Premiering to worldwide acclaim, it was the first Korean drama to skyrocket to commercial success, captivating audiences with its poignant critique of capitalism through deadly children's games. Creator Hwang Dong-hyuk has been transparent about the storytelling direction, ensuring fans know this isn't a late cancellation but rather a planned conclusion to the thrilling saga of Seong Gi-hun and his perilous encounters.
Another notable title coming to the end of its run is the animated series Big Mouth, which by spring or summer 2025 will air its final season. The show, known for its frank and humorous exploration of puberty, has embraced diverse stories thanks to its eclectic voice cast and insightful writers. Each season has brought forward relatable themes of adolescence, all wrapped up within the comedic narratives involving hormone monsters. The decision to conclude the series aligns with the natural progression of the characters as they age out of middle school, leaving much for the creators to explore next.
Also ending its chapter will be the beloved martial arts series Cobra Kai. The spinoff of the iconic Karate Kid franchise will debut its sixth season's final episodes on February 13, 2025. Initially developed for YouTube, the series garnered significant acclaim after moving to Netflix, focusing on Johnny Lawrence and Daniel LaRusso's perpetual rivalry. The creators revealed they were ready for the series to reach its conclusion, asserting the narrative had culminated effectively over its extensive run. Fans need not worry about entirely losing the franchise, with discussions of future projects, such as the film Karate Kid: Legends.
The crime thriller You will also draw its curtains with season five hitting screens on April 24, 2025. With this intense narrative surrounding the behavioral patterns of its enigmatic protagonist Joe Goldberg, Netflix has pledged the concluding season will resolve his story arc clearly, addressing themes explored throughout his series-long obsession with love, stalking, and violence.
Another poignant conclusion wraps up with Mo, which has solidified its stance as one of the platform's top critically rated shows. Having already released its second and final season on January 30, 2025, the show has charmed both audiences and critics alike, earning praise for its comedic and timely reflection on the immigrant experience. Although Netflix has not elaborated on the reasoning behind the show's conclusion, its impact over the years remains unquestionable.
While many iconic series take their final bows, Netflix is rolling out its ambitious content slate for 2025. This year promises to be filled with exciting projects ranging from established franchises to new narratives. Among the highly anticipated releases are Knives Out 3, The Woman in Cabin 10, and Guillermo del Toro's Frankenstein, featuring major stars like Oscar Isaac and Mia Goth.
New arrivals also include the comedy series Everybody's Live with John Mulaney, launching March 12, bringing Mulaney's unique style to Netflix's live performance offerings without missing the mark on humor. Further heightening expectations, beloved projects like Ginny & Georgia and several Tyler Perry films, including Madea's Destination Wedding, are set to join the already packed available lineup for subscribers.
Netflix's content chief Bela Bajaria shared at the preview event, highlighting the platform's commitment to producing high-caliber storytelling with varied genres, emphasizing there remains a myth surrounding Netflix about the lack of 'prestige TV'. She stated, "Today, we’re making more prestige TV than ever." This is sure to invigorate the discourse around Netflix's 2025 programming.
With the blend of old favorites wrapping up and new adventures beginning, Netflix is poised to engage audiences and rekindle interests as the new year rolls on. Viewers are encouraged to brace themselves for what is sure to be a packed year filled with powerful storytelling and unforgettable characters.