We’re talking about the HBO Original show Insecure — it seems Netflix might be licensing some rivals content, so what might be next?
We read (via Deadline), Warner Bros Discovery are looking to make more money from HBO Original titles, and are in talks with Netflix to make a few shows available, starting with Insecure. This is a major move if it happens — with the new Max streaming service, the two organisations are rival, yet it’s long seemed to us all streamers will look at ways to make older shows more widely available longer term, even if only for short periods. While it’s good news for fans of the show, it led us to wonder, what HBO Original shows would we watch on Netflix? Yes, it’s another list!
What is Insecure?
A quick diversion before we start, and a quick guide to Insecure. First there’s the official website, telling us:
Created by and starring Issa Rae, this comedy series looks at the friendship of two modern-day black women, as well as all of their uncomfortable experiences and racy tribulations. As they navigate the tricky professional and personal terrain of Los Angeles, best friends Issa (Rae) and Molly (Yvonne Orji) face the challenges of being black women who defy all stereotypes.
The show ran for five seasons, finishing in 2021. All episodes are now streaming on Max.
What shows might follow?
We had a quick brainstorm at CultBox Towers and came up with the following, starting with the biggie…
Game of Thrones
It’s the behemoth of shows, and we’ll include House of the Dragon as well. It needs no introduction, and would challenge Netflix shows such as The Witcher. Could the crown jewel be licensed to Netflix (or others)? We don’t see it happening anytime soon. Let’s move on before we get carried away.
The Larry Sanders Show
Running for 6 seasons across 88 episode, this classic fourth-wall smashing comedy from the ’90s is one we’d be happy to see again. It’s also (according to Rotten Tomatoes) the #1 rated HBO Original.
The Sopranos
Only making #38 in the Rotten Tomatoes list, The Sopranos is another show needing no introduction. Running from 1999-2007, this crime drama is often cited as one of the best dramas ever made. Rolling Stone listed at at #1 in the 100 greatest TV shows of all time in both 2016 and 2022. One we’d definitely be keen to sit and binge.
Westworld
Westworld
Cancelled in 2022 after four seasons, this show is rooted in the 1973 Michael Crichton film of the same name, with elements of 1976 sequel Futureworld. One of (if not the) biggest debut audiences on HBO, ratings and audience declined over the four seasons, with the show being cancelled before a fifth and final season could be made. We have to admit to a soft spot for the original film, and who wouldn’t want to visit “the futuristic fantasy park known as Westworld, a group of android ‘hosts’ deviate from their programmers’ carefully planned scripts in a disturbing pattern of aberrant behavior.”
And there’s (much) more, but
Of course we could produce a very long list, covering many other shows (such as Mare of Easttown or Chernobyl) it’s worth mentioning Sky already has many (most?) of these shows available in the UK via its NOW service. Would Netflix be able to license any HBO Original show in the UK market? It’s something we’ll be keeping an eye open for.
What HBO Original shows would you like to see come to Netflix? Let us know in the comments.