Does Hulu have CW shows: the short answer
Hulu has historically carried CW shows in the United States, often providing recent episodes via a multiyear licensing agreement. However, the catalog has changed over time, some CW originals streamed elsewhere, and availability can differ by region and plan. This article explains the relationship between Hulu and The CW, how licensing affects which shows appear, how to find current and past CW titles on Hulu, and what to expect going forward.
How the Hulu–CW relationship works
Hulu has long partnered with The CW to stream episodes shortly after broadcast. These arrangements are typically governed by multiyear licensing contracts that specify which series are available, how long they remain on Hulu, and whether they can appear on other platforms. Because licensing is rights-based, not every CW show is always on Hulu, and changes in rights can lead to removals or shifts to other services, such as The CW’s own apps and sites or other streaming providers.
Key factors that affect availability
- Licensing windows: Episodes may appear on Hulu with a delay after airing on The CW and can leave after a set period.
- Platform-specific originals: Some CW series are treated as streaming originals and may launch on The CW’s apps or other services rather than Hulu.
- Regional restrictions: Not all content is available in every U.S. market due to local rights.
- Plan differences: Live-Stream and Ad-Free plans typically provide full access; Live TV plans may vary based on agreements.
Notable CW series that have been on Hulu
Over the years, several popular CW series have been part of the Hulu catalog at different times. The table below summarizes representative series, their tenure on Hulu, and notes on current availability. Because rights change, confirm within the app for the latest status.
| Series | Years on Hulu (approximate) | Availability notes |
|---|---|---|
| The Flash | 2015–2023 | Most seasons historically available; recent seasons may move to other platforms or leave over time. |
| Riverdale | 2017–2023 | Seasons streamed; later seasons and removal timing depend on licensing. |
| Supernatural | 2016–2021 | Completed catalog available for a period; availability can change after license end. |
| Batwoman | 2019–2022 | Appeared after broadcast; removal aligned with licensing agreements. |
| Kung Fu | 2021–2023 | Seasons added post-broadcast; subject to platform-specific rights. |
| Walker | 2021–2023 | Episodes streamed with delays; later seasons may favor other services. |
How to check for CW shows on Hulu right now
Because licensing affects availability, the best way to see whether a specific CW show is on Hulu is to search inside the app or website. Use these steps to verify current access and understand plan eligibility.
- Open the Hulu app or go to the Hulu website and sign in to your account.
- Use the search function to look for the title you’re interested in.
- If a title appears, check the details card for ‘Included’ or ‘Add-on’ status and note any regional restrictions.
- Review the Hulu Help Center for notices about recent removals or platform-specific premieres.
- If a show is missing, check The CW’s own apps, The CW App, or other services that may hold current rights.
Why CW shows sometimes disappear from Hulu
Licensing agreements define when and how long a show remains on a platform. When a contract expires, rights may move to The CW’s own apps and sites, to other streamers, or to a new agreement that keeps the show on Hulu. Occasionally, a series is removed mid-season if the parties do not renew. Because each show can have different rights for different seasons, it’s possible for earlier seasons to remain on Hulu while later seasons shift elsewhere. Regional variations and plan limitations can also affect which episodes you can watch.
What this means for new CW series
New CW series may not automatically appear on Hulu at launch. Some are timed exclusives on The CW’s apps or require a separate add-on through Hulu. Decisions depend on existing contracts, platform strategies, and whether a series is treated as a streaming original. If you’re specifically looking for a new CW show, check The CW’s schedule and the Hulu add-on catalog before assuming it will be included with your base Hulu subscription.
Planning to watch CW shows on Hulu: practical tips
- Search by exact title and verify availability in your region.
- Check the episode details card for notes such as ‘Live-TV delay’ or ‘Included with No Ads’.
- Compare options if a show is missing; it may be on The CW App, Paramount+, or another service.
- Review any add-ons in your Hulu account to ensure you have the right package for live or latest episodes.
- Monitor announcements from Hulu and The CW when major multiyear agreements change.
Bottom line
Hulu has carried CW shows and can continue to do so under licensing agreements, but not every CW series is always available, and terms can change. Your access depends on current contracts, regional rights, and your specific Hulu plan. To know whether a given show is on Hulu now, search the platform directly and consult The CW’s own channels for the most up-to-date streaming options.