For the first time in history, Netflix will start broadcasting terrestrial television and will start with TF1 TV channels in France in 2026

In 2026, French Netflix users will be able to access TF1's TV channels directly through the streaming service. This will be the first deal of its kind in the world where an international platform integrates live broadcasts of classic TV channels into its own app.

Netflix will broadcast all five main TV channels of TF1 Group: TF1, LCI, TMC, TFX and TF1 Séries Films. An extensive catalogue of on-demand content will also be available, with more than 30,000 hours of programmes, series, films and shows from the TF1 library. This way, French viewers will be able to watch both their favourite projects and live broadcasts without having to switch between different platforms.

The partnership allows Netflix to expand its offer in France and deepen its integration with local media. At the same time, it is an opportunity for TF1 to increase its audience reach, as more than 10 million households in the country use Netflix. The deal also provides TF1 with additional opportunities to monetise its content, including through advertising.

Apart from the business aspect, the deal is also of strategic importance: France actively regulates the streaming market and requires international services to support local content production. By partnering with TF1, Netflix reaffirms its commitment to developing the local TV industry and adapting to the national media landscape.

The new service is expected to become available in France next summer. Subscription terms will remain unchanged and the new content will be available to all users as part of their regular subscription.

It's also a chance to have Emily in Paris, Evening News from Paris, and political analysis from Jean-Pierre, who has always dreamed of being on Netflix but didn't know what a VPN was, in one app.

Source: L'Independent