This Acclaimed HBO Original Comedy Series Is Heading to Netflix
The relationship between HBO and Netflix continues to result in major series and movies making their way to the world's largest streaming service. Some of HBO's most popular and beloved series are now available to stream on Netflix, giving subscribers more options to choose from as they navigate the app.
Another acclaimed and award-nominated series is set to debut on Netflix next month, and it's a show that developed a dedicated fan base during its three season run on the premium cable network.
On Tuesday, March 17, Netflix will add all three seasons of "The Ricky Gervais Show." The series ran for a total of 39 episodes, and originally aired on HBO and the United Kingdom's Channel 4 from 2010 through 2012.
Award-Nominated Classic Heads To Netflix
The series features Gervais, a world-renowned comedian and actor, discussing a variety of topics with friends. The show's animated style adds color and flair to the conversations, serving as a visual companion to Gervais' popular radio show and later, his notable podcast.
Gervais' radio show aired from 1998 through 2005 on a weekly basis in the United Kingdom, and it was later adapted into a podcast following the success of the original version of "The Office" and some of Gervais' other pursuits.
Gervais' podcast served as a spiritual successor to the radio show, running for an additional six years. The show was ahead of its time in many respects, as Gervais' weekly podcast releases are similar to Netflix's recent strategy and acquisition of several sports and pop culture shows.
"The Ricky Gervais Show" should be a natural fit on Netflix in 2026, as it embodies the same conversational spirit as podcasts like "The Rewatchables" and shows like "The Midnight Gospel." Gervais' show will also debut on Netflix ahead of the premier of his new adult animated comedy "Alley Cats."
Gervais' Continued Relationship With Netflix
The new series, which features several other British comedians, will focus on a group of feral cats seeking companionship as they navigate the trials and tribulations of daily life.
“I play a fat, lazy, rude, opinionated creature with fangs, who’s not as smart or brave as he thinks he is. So quite a stretch,” Gervais said when the new series was revealed. "Alley Cats" is set to debut in 2026, giving Gervais yet another series on a platform where he's already proven to be successful.
"After Life," which aired for three seasons on Netflix from 2019 to 2022, featured Gervais in the lead role. The multi hyphenate also directed and wrote the show, earning multiple nominations and awards in the process. Netflix also hosts "Derek," another comedy series from Gervais, as well as several of his popular stand-up comedy specials.
Fans can tune into "After Life" on Netflix now, and they'll be able to watch "The Ricky Gervais Show" on March 17. "Alley Cats" has yet to get an official release date, but it's clear that Netflix sees Gervais as one of its most reliable stars - in any medium.