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Reason for top American television series yet to air in the UK remains unclear

"Pitt's Drama Wins Emmy, Yet Remains Inaccessible Across the Atlantic; Previous victors include Shogun and Succession, but viewing it legally here is still unattainable"

, and ASMedia

2025 September 24 . 3:33 PM

2 min read

Reason explanations for the top-rated American television series' delayed release in the United... — Reason explanations for the top-rated American television series' delayed release in the United Kingdom.

Reason for top American television series yet to air in the UK remains unclear

The highly-acclaimed medical procedural, "The Pitt," produced by HBO, is set to make its UK debut as an alluring launch title for HBO Max. This hospital drama, which premiered in the US in January, has been absent from UK TV screens due to its exclusive release on HBO Max.

Speculation suggests that "The Pitt" has been withheld for UK audiences until HBO Max starts in the UK, aiming to create a strong impact as a launch title. The series has received widespread critical acclaim, with critics comparing its quality to waiting times at the NHS. David Simms from The Atlantic referred to "The Pitt" as "the finest example of the genre in more than a generation."

Vulture described "The Pitt" as "a wholly engrossing show, competently made and beautifully edited." The New Yorker, too, praised the series, stating that it will "have your heart broken and mended several times per episode."

Two of "The Pitt's" stars, Noah Wyle and Katherine LaNasa, also won acting awards at the Emmys, further solidifying the show's success. However, it is not confirmed whether "The Pitt" will be a Sky Atlantic series.

In Germany, "The Pitt" is not yet officially available on streaming platforms before its UK release. It is expected to be released in Germany only with HBO Max's launch in early 2026, possibly simultaneously with the UK. However, it can currently be streamed in English via HBO Max if accessed from abroad or using specific methods.

HBO Max, which was rebranded to Max and recently back to HBO Max, has been the subject of memes due to its series of identity crises since its launch in 2020. Despite this, "The Pitt" stands as a HBO Max original, and its win at the Emmys for Outstanding Drama Series further cements its status.

HBO Max is scheduled to start in the UK early next year, and with "The Pitt" set to be a part of its lineup, UK audiences can look forward to experiencing this critically-acclaimed series.