A hacker has gotten his hands on Orange is the New Black which is scheduled for release on Netflix in the next few months. Lots of speculation is circling around suggesting that this will force Netflix’s hand on releasing it early. Here’s our view on it.
With a few exceptions, Orange is the New Black is probably Netflix’s most coveted shows being the breakout that the Netflix Original program needed a few years ago to place Netflix as a serious contender in the industry. It’s now into its fifth season and while it’s evolved from what it first set out to be, it’s still a staple in the Netflix Original lineup each and every year. Given this, it’s important for Netflix to handle the launches right given many will renew their subscription just for a new season.
What’s Happened?
News began circulating over the past few days that a hacker has been able to hack into the production companies servers and acquire the complete season 5. The show has been produced by Lionsgate TV since season 1.
The hacker going by the alias of “thedarkoverlord” took to message boards to talk about his endeavor saying: “We’re quite ashamed to breathe the same air as you. We figured a pragmatic business such as yourselves would see and understand the benefits of cooperating with a reasonable and merciful entity like ourselves.”
Netflix had this to say on the matter:
“We are aware of the situation. A production vendor used by several major TV studios had its security compromised and the appropriate law enforcement authorities are involved.”
Could this bring forward the Orange is the New Black Release Date?
The first five episodes are being threatened to be released early by the hackers which could force Netflix’s hand. At this point in time, the series is still scheduled to release on June 9th but gives a whole month for the hacker to upload the complete set. Honestly, we think Netflix will stand fast and won’t bring the release date forward however set out in a legal effort to stop the show from releasing.
May is a busy month for Netflix Originals with plenty of debuts and returning series so it’s unlikely to fit especially since June is almost completely reliant on Orange is the New Black.
We’ll let you know if we hear anything else!
