UK TV viewers could be hit with a hefty fine of up to £1,000 for simply tuning into a popular Netflix show. Millions of Brits are at risk of this penalty which they might not even be aware of.
While most people know that watching live programmes or any BBC content requires a television licence, which currently stands at £169.50 annually, it’s less commonly understood that this licence is also necessary for live streaming on platforms like Netflix. This stipulation puts WWE Raw enthusiasts in jeopardy of contravening BBC regulations.
The wrestling show made its debut on the streaming giant earlier this month and broadcasts every Tuesday at 1am in the UK. As MailOnline reports, WWE Raw has been previously aired on various networks such as USA Network, TNN/Spike TV, and again on USA Network.
Social media users have expressed their thrill over WWE Raw’s availability on Netflix, the UK’s most subscribed streaming service found in three out of five homes. One eager fan remarked on social media: “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.”
Netflix’s chief content officer, Bela Bajaria, commented: “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.