Animal Control is getting a fresh streaming boost. The first two seasons of the Fox comedy have quietly landed on Netflix in the U.S., following a new licensing deal between Fox Entertainment Global and the streamer. The surprise drop on December 26 marks a major shift for the single-camera sitcom — and it’s only the beginning.
Netflix is set to add Season 3 next, followed eventually by the upcoming fourth season, which makes its broadcast debut on Fox today, December 28.
Why This Move Matters
Until now, Animal Control lived primarily on Hulu, which retains next-day, in-season streaming rights for Fox shows. As of December 28, Hulu is carrying only the most recent five episodes (Episodes 6–10) of Season 3, under its “rolling five” model.
By shifting earlier seasons to Netflix, Fox is clearly widening the show’s exposure — especially to viewers who may have missed it during its original run.
Part of Fox’s Bigger Streaming Strategy
Animal Control isn’t an isolated case. Fox has been actively placing its fully owned series across multiple platforms and regions. The Netflix deal follows similar moves involving Fox animated comedies Krapopolis and Grimsburg.
Elsewhere, Fox has also benefited from Sony Pictures Television’s recent Netflix deal for the medical drama Doc, which Fox co-produces. Together, these moves highlight Fox’s strategy of monetising its library beyond its traditional broadcast ecosystem.
What Animal Control Is About
The series centres on a group of local animal control officers navigating chaotic workdays — where dealing with animals is often easier than dealing with people.
Joel McHale stars as Frank Shaw, a sharp-tongued, overqualified officer with an uncanny ability to understand animals, but far less patience for humans. A former cop who tried (and failed) to expose corruption in his department, Frank’s cynical edge is as much a survival tool as a personality trait.
The ensemble cast also includes Michael Rowland, Vella Lovell, Ravi Patel, and Grace Palmer, giving the show its quick banter and workplace-comedy rhythm.
Behind the Scenes
Animal Control premiered in February 2023 and was created by Bob Fisher, Rob Greenberg, and Dan Sterling. The series is produced by Fox Entertainment Studios, with production services from Jax Media.
Executive producers include Joel McHale, the creators, and Tad Quill.
Final Words
With Netflix now hosting its earlier seasons, Animal Control has a second chance to grow beyond its original Fox audience. As Season 4 kicks off on broadcast and new episodes gradually roll onto streaming, the Joel McHale-led comedy looks well positioned to find new fans — and maybe even become a sleeper hit in the process.
