If you’re hunting for where to watch Derek, you’ve probably noticed that tracking down Ricky Gervais’ projects can be a bit of a headache. One minute they’re everywhere, and the next, they’ve vanished into a black hole of licensing agreements. Honestly, it’s frustrating.
You’d think a "Netflix Original" would stay on Netflix forever. Not quite.
I remember when this show first dropped back in 2013. People didn’t know what to make of it. Was it a comedy? A tragedy? Was Gervais being cruel or kind? Whether you love the "kindness is magic" vibe or you’re just here for Karl Pilkington’s legendary grumpiness as Dougie, the show has a massive cult following even now in 2026.
The Short Answer: Where to Watch Derek Right Now
The good news is that for most of you, the answer is still Netflix.
Despite some rumors a few years back about the show leaving the platform, Derek remains a staple of the Netflix library in the United States, Canada, and several other major territories. Because Netflix helped distribute the show globally outside of its original UK broadcast on Channel 4, they’ve kept a tight grip on the streaming rights.
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Current Streaming Status as of 2026
- Netflix: Available in the US, Canada, and most of Europe. This includes Season 1, Season 2, and the 2014 hour-long finale special.
- Channel 4 (UK): If you’re in the UK, you can often find it on Channel 4’s streaming service (formerly All 4).
- ABC iview (Australia): Historically, the show has popped up here for Australian viewers, though availability fluctuates.
Why Finding Derek is Kinda Confusing
The confusion usually starts with the "Netflix Original" tag. Technically, Derek was produced by Derek Productions Ltd for Channel 4 in the UK. Netflix bought the international rights and branded it as an "Original" in the States.
This means that while Netflix owns the streaming rights in many places, they don’t necessarily own the show forever. Every few years, these contracts come up for renewal. In 2019, there was a massive scare when the show actually did leave Netflix in certain regions for a short period.
If you log in and don't see it, it might be a regional licensing lockout.
Can You Buy or Rent Derek Digitally?
Sometimes you just want to own the thing so you don't have to worry about "Content Expiring" warnings.
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If you prefer to buy it, Google Play and Apple TV are your best bets. They typically offer "Season 1," "Season 2," and the "Special" as separate purchases. Just a heads up: the special is often listed as a standalone "movie" or a separate entry entirely, which is annoying if you’re trying to binge the whole story in order.
Amazon Video also carries it in some regions, though they are notorious for switching it from "Included with Prime" to "Buy only" without much notice.
What About Physical Media?
Call me old-fashioned, but there’s something nice about having the DVD on the shelf. You can still find the Derek: Series 1 & 2 DVD sets on sites like Amazon or eBay.
They’re actually worth grabbing if you’re a fan because of the extras. The blooper reels for Derek are arguably as famous as the show itself. Watching Ricky Gervais completely lose it while Karl Pilkington tries to stay in character is top-tier entertainment.
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A Quick Refresher on the Watch Order
If you’re starting your first watch-through, don’t just stop after the second season. The story isn't actually finished there.
- Season 1 (6 Episodes): Introduces the Broadhill Retirement Home.
- Season 2 (6 Episodes): Explores more of Derek’s relationship with his dad.
- The Special (1 Episode): This is the definitive series finale. It’s about an hour long and ties up the emotional arcs of Derek, Hannah, and Kev.
Why People Still Search for Derek
It’s a weird show. There’s no other way to put it.
Gervais moved away from the biting cynicism of The Office and Extras to create something incredibly sentimental. It’s about a man who "only sees the good" in people. While some critics found it manipulative, audiences generally loved the sincerity.
Plus, it’s the only place you’ll see Karl Pilkington actually acting—sort of. He basically plays himself but with a slightly worse wig and a job at a nursing home. It’s brilliant.
Actionable Tips for Your Rewatch
If you’re planning to dive back in, here is the best way to do it:
- Check your local Netflix first. Just type "Derek" in the search bar. If it doesn't show up, try searching for "Ricky Gervais"—sometimes the algorithm hides specific titles but shows them in a creator's collection.
- Don't skip the "The Special." Many people think the show ends with Season 2, Episode 6. You’ll miss the actual ending if you don’t find the standalone special episode.
- Watch the bloopers. Seriously. Go to YouTube after you finish the show and search for "Derek Bloopers." It changes the whole vibe of the show when you see how much fun they were having behind the scenes.
Whether you're watching for the first time or the fifth, Broadhill is a place that stays with you. Grab some tissues—you're going to need them for the ending.