As Shadowhunters: The Mortal Instruments approaches its tenth anniversary, fans of the sci-fi fantasy series are in for some bittersweet news. The popular show will be leaving Netflix globally on January 1st, 2026, with New Year’s Eve marking the final day to stream the series. Originally a Netflix Original in international territories, Shadowhunters made its mark on audiences worldwide, based on the hit YA book series The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare.
The departure of this fan-favorite show from Netflix signals the end of a significant chapter, both for the series itself and for Netflix’s international distribution practices.
Key Features of Shadowhunters: The Mortal Instruments
Here’s an overview of the series and what made it stand out during its run:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | Premiered in 2016 |
| Seasons | 3 (including 3B, the final season) |
| Genre | Sci-fi, Fantasy, YA Drama |
| Main Cast | Katherine McNamara (Clary Fray), Dominic Sherwood (Jace Herondale) |
| Streaming Platform (International) | Netflix (until 2026) |
| Original Network (US) | Freeform (Hulu for US viewers) |
| Based On | The Mortal Instruments book series by Cassandra Clare |
Watching Shadowhunters Before It’s Gone
As we approach the series’ departure from Netflix, it’s essential to plan how to catch up or re-watch your favorite episodes before the end of 2025.
| Platform | Availability | Last Date to Watch |
|---|---|---|
| Netflix Global | Available worldwide in all Netflix regions (except the US) | December 31st, 2025 |
| Hulu (US) | Available exclusively in the United States | Ongoing |
What Happens After January 1st, 2026?
Once Shadowhunters leaves Netflix in 2026, international viewers will no longer be able to stream the show on the platform. However, the series will remain available on Hulu for US viewers. As the streaming landscape evolves, other distribution options for the show might emerge, but Netflix will no longer carry it worldwide.
Legacy and Benefits of Shadowhunters: The Mortal Instruments
While Shadowhunters may be leaving Netflix, the series’ impact continues to be felt globally. Here are some of the key benefits and lasting impressions the show left behind:
| Benefit | Impact |
|---|---|
| Fan Base | A massive and loyal following, highlighted by the #SaveShadowhunters campaign that led to a strong, dedicated fan community. |
| Representation | Shadowhunters provided diverse representation, from LGBTQ+ characters to ethnic diversity, in a fantasy setting. |
| High-Quality Production | The show was known for its immersive world-building, strong character arcs, and intense action sequences. |
| Cultural Influence | The show continues to inspire fan art, cosplay, and social media discussions, maintaining its relevance even after its cancellation. |
“Despite its cancellation, Shadowhunters has remained a beloved staple of fantasy television. Its characters, storytelling, and world-building left a mark on fans across the globe,” says TV critic Emma Davis.
Why Shadowhunters Ended Early?
While Shadowhunters was beloved by many, its premature end came as a shock to fans. The series was canceled after its third season, ending with a two-hour finale.
Key Reasons for Cancellation:
- Netflix’s Departure: A major factor in the cancellation was Netflix’s decision to stop covering the show’s costs after its output deal with Constantin Films ended.
- Network and Scheduling Issues: While the show found success on Freeform, the lack of consistent viewership and the decision not to renew it left many fans disappointed.
- The #SaveShadowhunters Campaign: Despite a massive fan-driven campaign to save the show, it was ultimately not renewed for a fourth season.
“The cancellation of Shadowhunters was a blow to the show’s dedicated fanbase. However, the passion from fans through the #SaveShadowhunters movement kept the series alive in the hearts of many,” says entertainment expert Sarah Greenfield.
Recent Updates on Shadowhunters and Netflix Departures
As of 2023, Shadowhunters continues to rack up views, with 34.7 million views between January 2023 and June 2025, according to Netflix’s engagement reports. This indicates that the series still enjoys a dedicated following, even as it nears its exit from the platform.
“Although Shadowhunters will leave Netflix in 2026, its global fanbase ensures the series will continue to live on through streaming platforms, social media, and fan-driven events,” notes streaming analyst Mark Hughes.
In addition to Shadowhunters, Netflix will see several other shows rotate off its library come January 2026. Here are a few notable titles leaving Netflix:
- UK: Suits, Friends, Rick & Morty, The Big Bang Theory, Mad Men, Law & Order
- US: Evil, School Spirits, Lost, Tacoma FD
Why Shadowhunters Departure Matters?
The departure of Shadowhunters from Netflix is part of a broader trend of content cycling off streaming platforms as licensing agreements end. This reflects Netflix’s evolving strategy, focusing more on its own original content and less on acquiring distribution rights for shows produced by other studios.
For fans of Shadowhunters, it’s a reminder to catch up before the final day on December 31st, 2025. With the show’s cancellation and its departure from the platform, this may be the last opportunity to experience the series in its original form.
FAQs
The last day to stream Shadowhunters on Netflix globally is December 31st, 2025.
It’s unclear where Shadowhunters will land after Netflix. However, it remains available on Hulu for US viewers.
The show was canceled due to Netflix ending its deal to cover the production costs, along with fluctuating viewership on Freeform.
Yes, Shadowhunters is still available on Hulu for US viewers.
In addition to Shadowhunters, shows like Suits, Friends, Rick & Morty, and The Big Bang Theory will be leaving Netflix in the UK, while the US will lose shows like Evil and Lost.
