New streaming service HBO Max sets May 27 launch date

By Neil Wilkes, Editor-in-chief

Published: April 21 2020 | 21:29

Last updated: April 22 2020 | 21:04

HBO announces that its new streaming service HBO Max, which will house Friends and Game of Thrones, will launch in the US on May 27.

HBO Max will launch in the US on May 27, it has been announced.

The new streaming service enters a crowded market that includes Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, Disney+ and the forthcoming Peacock platform from NBC, drawing from WarnerMedia's extensive library of titles from CNN, DC, TNT, TBS, Cartoon Network and Adult Swim.

HBO Max will offer all 10 seasons of iconic comedy Friends, the 12 seasons of The Big Bang Theory, The Bachelor, recent seasons of Doctor Who, The OC and Will Smith's The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.

Most of HBO's premium original series will also be available, including Game of Thrones, Sex and the City, The Wire and Curb Your Enthusiasm.

Original content for HBO Max includes Anna Kendrick comedy Love Life and Sesame Street spinoff The Not Too Late Show with Elmo, while an unscripted Friends reunion has also been lined up - albeit delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

HBO Max will be rolled out to international territories outside of the US later in 2020 but will not launch in the UK due to HBO's long-established output deal with Sky.