Netlfix just shared the list of movies leaving the streaming service in July 2026. Unfortunately, we're going to be saying goodbye to one of the best zombie movies of all time, and one that inspired Robert Kirkman to create The Walking Dead, very soon.
Night of the Living Dead, directed by George A. Romero, is leaving Netflix on July 4, 2026, which means you only have a few days left to watch the hit zombie movie before it leaves Netflix and moves to another streaming platform.
Night of the Living Dead is one of the most famous zombie movies of all time. The film premiered in theaters in 1968. The film tells the story of a group of survivors trying to survive the night in a remote farmhouse surrounded by zombies. The film basically created an entire genre of filmmaking.
Almost 60 years later, Romero's film remains one of the most impactful horror movies of all time because of what it means to the genre. It also should be held in reverence by all fans of The Walking Dead.
The Walking Dead was created because of Night of the Living Dead
Without Night of the Living Dead, there's no Walking Dead. It's that simple.
Kirkman has been very open about The Walking Dead being a continuation of Night of the Living Dead, but his publisher, Image Comics, wanted a more original story rather than a continuation, according to Comic Book Resources.
It's easy to see the similarities between the two stories, especially early in the series. In fact, The Walking Dead season 2 is basically one long Night in the Living Dead-inspired story. I don't think it's any coincidence that Rick and his group end up at Hershel's farm immediately after finding each other and leaving the CDC.
It's not just that the stories and ultimate goal to survive the apocalypse are similar; there are so many shots in Night of the Living Dead that could work in The Walking Dead almost 50 years later and vice versa. You can see how Frank Darabont, who was in charge of The Walking Dead at the beginning of season 2, was also inspired by Romero and Night of the Living Dead, as well.
If you haven't seen Night of the Living Dead, I highly recommend checking it out before it leaves Netflix, especially if you're a fan of The Walking Dead. I think it's so important to understand and appreciate the art that inspires your favorite things. Sure, the production value might look silly compared to the epic nature of The Walking Dead. Without Night of the Living Dead, though, there's likely no such thing as The Walking Dead. These stories build on each other and turn into something like the modern masterpiece that is The Walking Dead.
Night of the Living Dead exits on Netflix on July 4! It's definitely the best zombie movie available on the platform right now, but there are some other good and newer picks, too, like 28 Years Later, Zombieland, The Dead Don't Die, and more! Throw in The Walking Dead, Fear the Walking Dead, The Walking Dead: Dead City, and The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon, and it's a zombie party!
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