Netflix subscribers warned of surprising £1k FINE if they watch new show

THE historic Katie Taylor vs Amanda Serrano trilogy fight is set to air live on Netflix tomorrow – but subscribers have been warned about tuning in.

The Madison Square Garden match will be live-streamed by Netflix, which means viewers need a TV licence to watch it legally.

While Netflix doesn’t typically require a TV licence for on-demand content, live-streamed content is different.

Those tuning in without a TV licence could face a £1,000 fine.

“As live streaming becomes increasingly popular across major streaming platforms, UK viewers need to stay informed about TV licensing requirements, particularly for live broadcasts,” Daniel McAfee, a lawyer from Lawhive, said.

“For standard, on-demand content such as TV series, films, or other non-live programming on Netflix, a TV licence is not required.

“However, once the platform offers a live broadcast, the legal landscape shifts significantly.”

The same rules apply to other streaming services, like Disney+, Amazon Prime, ITVX and BBC iPlayer.

So don’t be caught out watching a live broadcast on a subscription-based service that otherwise only offers on-demand content.

The licensing law aims to cover all live broadcasts to ensure that live television.

Beyond the “substantial” £1,000 penalty, the Licensing Authority may also choose to prosecute law-breaking viewers, which could lead to a criminal record, added McAfee.

A standard TV licence currently costs £159 per year, following a price hike in April 2025.

They can be purchased through the official TV Licensing website.

Authorities use tech like signal scanners to detect when people are watching live shows without a TV licence.

McAfee warned people who don’t think they’ll be caught that TV licence enforcement officers are allowed to visit properties they suspect are in breach of the rules.

However, homeowners are under no legal obligation to grant them entry.

Access to inspect for a valid licence requires either an injunction or a search warrant, McAfee explained.

“As streaming platforms explore live content, it’s possible that demand for TV licences could rise,” he said.

“This shift may lead to more prosecutions for unlicensed viewing if users are unaware of their obligations.

“Streaming platforms like Netflix hold a potential responsibility to inform subscribers of licensing laws, especially as live content becomes more integrated into their offerings.”