As May 2026 approaches, Netflix is once again refreshing its catalog, which means a significant number of movies and TV shows are on their way out. While new additions always grab headlines, it’s just as important to keep an eye on what’s leaving, especially when it includes major franchises, critically acclaimed films, and fan-favorite series.
This month is particularly notable for a heavy wave of removals right at the start, alongside a steady stream of departures throughout the rest of May.
TL;DR
A huge wave of titles is leaving Netflix in May 2026, including Mission: Impossible, Jaws, Whiplash, and Your Honor. Most major removals hit on May 1, so you’ll want to prioritize your watchlist early.
Major Highlights Leaving in May 2026
Several high-profile titles are set to depart, including iconic franchises and award-winning films.
Among the biggest losses:
- Mission: Impossible franchise (multiple entries)
- Jaws trilogy
- Whiplash
- Moonrise Kingdom
- Erin Brockovich
Later in the month, notable departures include:
- Train to Busan
- Your Honor starring Bryan Cranston
With such a diverse lineup leaving, May is shaping up to be one of the busiest months for removals so far this year.
Everything Leaving Netflix on May 1, 2026
The first day of the month brings the largest wave of exits. Here are some of the key titles leaving:
- Annie
- Brüno
- Darkest Hour
- Dawn of the Dead
- Dune
- Focus
- Fury
- How to Train Your Dragon
- How to Train Your Dragon 2
- Jaws 2
- Jaws 3
- Joy Ride
- Lee Daniels’ The Butler
- Lone Survivor
- Mission: Impossible 2
- Mission: Impossible III
- Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol
- Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation
- Monty Python’s The Meaning of Life
- Over the Hedge
- Priscilla
- Sicario
- The Brothers Grimsby
- Whiplash
- You’ve Got Mail
This list alone represents a wide range of genres, from action and drama to comedy and animation.
Mid-Month Removals to Watch
While May 1 dominates, several titles will quietly leave throughout the month:
Early May
- May 7: Super Me (Netflix Original)
- May 9: Documentary Now! (Seasons 1–4)
- May 11: ABBA: Against the Odds
Mid-May
- May 16: Peter Rabbit
- May 17: It’s Bruno! (Netflix Original)
Late May
- May 21: Wildfire (Seasons 1–4)
- May 27: Black Space (Netflix Original)
These staggered removals mean you still have time to catch certain titles later in the month, but the biggest urgency remains at the beginning.
Why So Many Titles Are Leaving
Content removals on Netflix are primarily driven by licensing agreements. When deals expire, titles are either renewed or removed from the platform.
In some cases, movies and shows may return in the future, especially if new agreements are reached. However, there’s no guarantee, which is why it’s always best to watch priority titles before their scheduled removal dates.
It’s also worth noting that removal dates can sometimes change, with Netflix occasionally extending availability or removing titles earlier than expected.
What You Should Watch Before It’s Gone
If you’re trying to prioritize your watchlist, here are a few standout picks:
- Whiplash for an intense, award-winning drama
- Sicario for a gripping crime thriller
- How to Train Your Dragon for family-friendly viewing
- Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol for blockbuster action
- Moonrise Kingdom for a quirky indie favorite
Final Thoughts
May 2026 is shaping up to be a major month of departures for Netflix, especially with such a heavy lineup leaving on May 1.
Whether you’re a fan of action franchises, classic films, or binge-worthy series, there’s something on this list you’ll want to catch before it disappears.
If any of these titles have been sitting on your watchlist, now is the time to hit play.
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