Netflix reveals Spain launch date

Netflix is continuing to expand its European footprint with a launch in Spain this October.

Netflix boss Reed Hastings

The Spanish version of the US streaming service will launch with epic adventure series Marco Polo, sitcom The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Jane Fonda comedy Grace and Frankie, thriller Bloodline and Marvel’s Daredevil, among others.

But two of Netflix’s most popular original series – House of Cards and Orange is the New Black – will not be available, as pay TV platform Canal+ already owns the Spanish rights.

Documentaries including Oscar-nominated Virunga and Mission Blue, plus docuseries Chef’s Tables, will be available along with comedy specials and the first Netflix Original movies, including Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon – The Green Legend.

The company also confirmed there will be a “wide selection of programming” for kids, offering subtitles and dubbing.

“I think Spain is going to be one of our most successful countries,” Netflix CEO and co-founder Reed Hastings told local media. “There is a very high penetration of broadband internet, and people are used to e-commerce and have shown they are interested in our product.”

Netflix’s move into the market has been mooted for some time, along with a potential entry into Italy, although this has not yet been officially confirmed.

The Californian firm went live in Australia and New Zealand in March and confirmed in February it would be launching in Japan. This followed last year’s major roll-out in six European countries, including France and Germany.

A Spanish-language version of Netflix is already available in countries across Latin America.

In related news, Netflix will add the documentary Tig – about comedian and cancer survivor Tig Notara – to its factual line-up this July. The 1×90’ film is described as “an unflinching look at a woman determined to find humor, life and love in the places we all fear the most.”

The doc was produced by Michael B. Clark and Alex Turtletaub at Beachside Entertainment, in association with Whiskeytown.