Netflix adds more live events to its 2025 slate

Netflix always looks for something new to entertain viewers. Usually, that's through exciting new shows, additional seasons, and also now through live events. A tremendous amount of creativity goes into all aspects of that. Could it be about to use some of that innovative genius differently?

While setting out their stall for 2025 shows recently there was a lot of news shared. Among the many shows listed on the 2025 slate, some other significant news was dropped in. That covered an extension of the platform's live screening activity.

One of the benefits of a platform like Netflix is the ability to watch what you want, wherever and whenever you want. Their app, website, and TV set links allow you to use a variety of devices to screen your favorite shows on the move or at home. And you can do that anytime you like once the programs are released. 

Netflix's content shift raises big questions and challenge to innovate

Increasingly there is a variation emerging as Netflix introduces more live events. That's something they are stepping up on in 2025. We've seen live WWE and awards shows then had NFL games live on Christmas Day. Coming up we’ll see Netflix host their TUDUM global fan event live at the end of May and start a new late-night live show, Everybody’s Live with John Mulaney, from next month.

For some live events, it's fine to watch afterward.  If you wanted to catch up on that new John Mulvaney show an hour or two later or the next day then why not? But it's quite different with sports events. For most fans, once you know the result, the game is done, and you are much less likely to want to watch a delayed showing. 

There’s a whole extra debate about where WWE fits into that thinking. I’m pretty sure fans of the fights will watch them whenever they want to. But it’s far more down the entertainment than the sports line. That may well be a whole other debate though. Regardless of that minor point, it is going to be very interesting to see how creative Netflix can get as it takes live event streaming forward. 

Netflix may need to innovate to stand out

Will it aim for more entertainment content? It is where its expertise lies for sure. The new late-night show is a decent mix between live and stream when you like programs. Sure it’ll be based on current news, but not in the same time-critical way as an NFL game. 

To some extent, while that may be new for Netflix, it’s not a new style or concept for viewers. So the unanswered question is what can Netflix use their creative genius on in the live event world. Will it shift to pop and rock? Exclusive theatre shows maybe? if it wants to stand out to viewers then it may need something unique and innovative instead of more of the same. Over to you Netflix, no pressure!

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