What Was The First Netflix Original: The Surprising Truth
What Was the First Netflix Original?
The first Netflix original series was Lilyhammer, which premiered on February 6, 2012. Starring Steven Van Zandt (of The Sons of Mistral and The Sopranos fame) as a mobster in hiding in Lillehammer, Norway, this Norwegian-American co-production marked Netflix's debut into exclusive original programming. While House of Cards (released February 1, 2013) is often cited as Netflix's first "true" original because it was fully commissioned and produced by Netflix, Lilyhammer holds the official distinction as the platform's earliest original series distributed globally under the Netflix Originals brand.
Historical Context: Netflix's Transition to Original Content
Before 2012, Netflix operated primarily as a DVD rental service founded in 1997 and later launched streaming in 2010 with licensed content. The decision to produce original programming represented a strategic pivot to differentiate from competitors and reduce dependency on licensing agreements with traditional studios. Netflix invested approximately $100 million into its initial original content slate, signalling serious commitment to the medium.
Key Milestones in Netflix Originals History
- 1997: Netflix founded as DVD rental service by Reed Hastings and Marc Randolph
- 2010: Netflix streaming service launches with licensed content
- February 6, 2012: Lilyhammer premieres as first Netflix original series
- February 1, 2013: House of Cards released as first fully commissioned Netflix original
- 2013: Orange Is the New Black launches, becoming Netflix's first major breakout hit
Comparing Lilyhammer vs. House of Cards
The distinction between these two shows matters for understanding Netflix's evolution. Lilyhammer was a co-production with Norwegian broadcaster NRK, meaning Netflix distributed it exclusively but didn't fully create it. House of Cards, conversely, was entirely commissioned and produced by Netflix with David Fincher as director and Kevin Spacey starring, establishing the prestige drama model that would define Netflix's brand.
| Attribute | Lilyhammer | House of Cards |
|---|---|---|
| Premiere Date | February 6, 2012 | February 1, 2013 |
| Production Type | Norwegian-American co-production | Fully commissioned by Netflix |
| Star | Steven Van Zandt | Kevin Spacey |
| Genre | Crime drama/comedy | Prestige political drama |
| Seasons | 3 (2012-2014) | 7 (2013-2018) |
| Official Status | First Netflix original series | First true Netflix original |
Why This Matters for Streaming History
Lilyhammer proved audiences would binge-watch entire seasons online, validating Netflix's data-driven approach to content consumption. This experiment paved the way for Netflix's $17 billion annual content budget by 2024 and inspired competitors like Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Disney+ to launch original programming. Without Lilyhammer's success, the streaming revolution might have delayed significantly.
Lessons for Educational Media Strategy
Just as Netflix's first original required strategic risk-taking and data-informed decisions, educational institutions launching digital content must prioritize authentic storytelling and measurable student outcomes. The Lilyhammer case demonstrates that initial offerings don't need perfect prestige-they need to validate the distribution model and build audience trust. For Marist schools in Latin America developing digital pedagogy, this mirrors the principle of starting with pilot programs before scaling comprehensive curricula aligned with Marist values.
Everything you need to know about What Was The First Netflix Original The Surprising Truth
What exactly qualifies as a "Netflix Original"?
A Netflix Original is content exclusively distributed globally by Netflix, either fully produced/commissioned by Netflix or co-produced with international partners for exclusive Netflix distribution.
Did Lilyhammer receive critical acclaim?
Lilyhammer received positive reviews for its unique culture-clash premise and Steven Van Zandt's performance, though it didn't achieve the award recognition later Netflix originals like House of Cards or Orange Is the New Black would earn.
How many Netflix original series existed by 2013?
By 2013, Netflix had launched its first 10 original series including Lilyhammer, House of Cards, Arrested Development (revival), and Hemlock Grove, establishing a steady slate across genres.
Can I watch Lilyhammer today on Netflix?
Yes, Lilyhammer remains available on Netflix in most regions as part of the Netflix Originals catalog, though licensing varies by country.
What was Netflix's first original movie?
Netflix's first original film was "Beasts of No Nation", starring Idris Elba, which premiered exclusively on Netflix streaming after limited theatrical release.
