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HBO has announced the eagerly-anticipated fifth season of hit drama Game of Thrones will be screened simultaneously around the world. However, UK viewers will unfortunately be left out in the cold.
In a move designed, in part, to cut down on the rampant record-breaking piracy spawned by the show’s popularity, the U.S. network will give everyone the chance to watch at the same time through its global portals.
HBO Asia, HBO Canada, HBO Europe, HBO Latin America, HBO Netherlands, HBO Nordic and more of HBO’s partner networks will be able to witness the show as it airs in the United States throughout the 10-episode season.
However, Sky Atlantic has exclusive rights to screen GoT in the United Kingdom and the broadcaster told Pocket-Lint it plans to air the show in its usual slot on Monday evenings at 9pm.
Sky says it is sticking to the time slot so everyone in the UK can enjoy the show together, either on TV or on NOW TV rather than fragmenting the audience.
However, that’s a blow for Brits hoping to stay up late and watch the show in order to avoid the gauntlet of potential spoilers lurking around the internet or from inconsiderate friends, colleagues or people on the bus.
Avoiding spoilers has become an ordeal associated with the show largely due to the abundance of dramatic and shocking plot twists. Brits will once again have to spend ten Mondays in an internet and conversation-free cocoon in order to ensure the mysteries stay in tact until 9pm.
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Just yesterday HBO announced the launch of its new HBO Now streaming platform, which will be available in the US for $15 a month without the need for a cable or satellite subscription. Apple will be the exclusive launch partner with an app coming to Apple TV.