UK television viewers are in for a shock as they could face hefty fines of up to £1,000 simply for streaming a popular new show on Netflix. Brits might be unaware, but millions are at risk of this potential fine which they may not realise is applicable to them.
While it’s common knowledge that watching live TV or any content produced by the BBC necessitates a TV licence – currently costing £169.50 annually – what isn’t as widely understood is that this requirement extends to live streams on platforms like Netflix. Hence, fans of WWE Raw, the prominent wrestling show now available on Netflix, could inadvertently fall foul of the regulations.
Premiering on the streaming giant earlier this month, WWE Raw airs live every Tuesday at 1am UK time. Previously broadcasted on various networks such as USA Network and TNN/Spike TV, as MailOnline reports, its arrival on Netflix has sparked enthusiasm among fans.
Fans expressed their excitement on social media platform X. One remarked on X: “Sorry I can’t go to work today I have to watch the entire archive of WWE monday night raw on netflix.” Another commented: “I was debating on staying up for raw but realized I can just watch it when I wake up lmao. WWE ate this one lil thing with this netflix deal.”
Commenting on WWE Raw’s transition to Netflix, chief content officer Bela Bajaria stated: “We are excited to have WWE Raw, with its huge and passionate multigenerational fan base, on Netflix. By combining our reach, recommendations, and fandom with WWE, we’ll be able to deliver more joy and value for their audiences and our members.
“Raw is the best of sports entertainment, blending great characters and storytelling with live action 52 weeks a year and we’re thrilled to be in this long-term partnership with WWE.”
TV licence rules
The Government website explains that you need a TV licence if you:
- Watch or record live TV on any channel or service
- Use BBC iPlayer.
However, you may be able to get a free or discounted TV licence if you’re 75 or over and get Pension Credit, or if you’re blind or in residential care. You do not need a TV licence to watch:
- Streaming services like Netflix and Disney Plus
- On-demand TV
- Videos on websites like YouTube
- Videos or DVDs.
A TV licence costs £169.50 (£57 for black and white TV sets) for both homes and businesses. The website says: “You can be fined up to £1,000 if you watch or record live TV without a TV licence.” For more information, visit gov.uk/find-licences/tv-licence.