When browsing through Netflix, you’ve probably comes across the “limited series” description on some shows. This isn’t explained anywhere on Netflix, making it a little confusing.
In this article, we explain what “limited series” means on Netflix so you don’t have to wonder about this distinction any more.
What Is a Limited Series on Netflix?
A limited series refers to a TV show that contains only one “season” with a self-contained story. The content of the show has a beginning, middle, and end, with the end of the series concluding its main story. Typically, a limited series lasts for 4-10 episodes.
This distinguishes a limited series from other TV shows, which run a story over several seasons. A limited series has a planned number of episodes from the start, so it doesn’t go on indefinitely like other shows can.
And while there might be other TV shows that only have one season, this usually occurs due to outside factors (like the network not renewing the show) and is thus different than an intentional limited series.
What is a limited series and why did it become a thing???
— Gregory Gadai (@Greg_Gadai) January 30, 2019
If a limited series comes back (which isn’t common), it should cover completely new ground and not depend on people having seen the prior episodes.
In effect, a limited series is similar to a “miniseries,” which is an older term used for short-run shows that tell a contained story in a small number of episodes.
Despite its name, a limited series does not mean that the show will only be on Netflix for a limited time. While Netflix removes shows from its catalog regularly, a limited series isn’t necessarily going to disappear quickly.
Examples of Limited Series on Netflix
Scroll around Netflix and you’ll find plenty of limited series on offer. 2020’s Tiger King, which was wildly popular upon its release, is one example. It consists of seven episodes, plus an additional after-show in an eighth episode.
Another major example is The Last Dance, a 10-episode limited series based on the NBA career of Michael Jordan and his final season with the Chicago Bulls.
There’s no particular search function on Netflix to find limited series, so you’ll have to open a show’s info page to find out if it’s a limited series or has multiple seasons.
Enjoy Limited Series on Netflix
A limited series is a great option for anyone who wants something more involved than a movie without committing to a full TV show. You can get through a limited series in the time it takes to watch a few movies, and they tell interesting stories with a definitive ending.
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