Which Netflix original series was the first to be produced in 4K?

The Netflix original series first produced in 4K was House of Cards.

Netflix released the American political drama’s first season on February 1, 2013, making it a landmark in the company’s move from licensed streaming toward original programming. The series was developed by Beau Willimon and starred Kevin Spacey as Frank Underwood, a ruthless politician navigating Washington power struggles. David Fincher directed several early episodes and served as an executive producer.

House of Cards also became a technological showcase. Netflix began streaming the series in 4K, or Ultra High Definition, in 2014, helping introduce the format to mainstream streaming audiences. The second season was among the earliest Netflix programs available in 4K, using HEVC/H.265 compression for compatible televisions and devices.

The wording can cause confusion because “Netflix original” did not always mean Netflix owned every production element. House of Cards was produced by Media Rights Capital for Netflix, but Netflix commissioned it as its first series made specifically for the service. Later productions such as The Crown, Stranger Things and Narcos also received high-resolution releases, but they came afterward.