Image Credit: Arte
After securing global rights at the Annecy Film Festival last summer, we finally have a release date for the charming and viral French animated series Samuel.
As we covered in June 2025, Netflix acquired international distribution rights to the show after its massive success on social media and European broadcaster Arte. At the time, Netflix teased a “late 2025/early 2026” window, and they’re keeping that promise.
we can confirm this Season 1 of Samuel Will arrive on Netflix in the US and select international territories on Thursday, February 5, 2026.
What is Samuel?
Produced, written and directed by Emily TroncheThe series is a coming-of-age story presented in a distinctive, minimalist black-and-white 2D style. It originally gained popularity on TikTok and Instagram for its relatable storytelling and impressive musical visuals.
The show is told through the diary of a 10-year-old boy named Samuel. It describes his daily life in the early 2000s, dealing with childhood innocence and anxiety – particularly his complicated feelings about a girl named Julie.
The official summary reads:
“It’s the first year of middle school. Samuel is 10 years old and he has a problem: Basil says he loves Julie. Samuel says it’s not true. But it is true. Samuel writes in his diary, dances in his room, and tries to understand the world of adults, friendship, and love.”
Subscribers should expect a quick binge. Samuel It is composed of 21 short episodes, ranging in length from a few minutes to nearly six minutes. This “micro-series” format makes it perfect for the TikTok generation, but its emotional depth resonates with adults who grew up in the era depicted in the show.
The series is produced by Les Valseurs and has already won praise in France for its authenticity and Tronche’s unique voice acting (she voices all the characters herself in the original French version).
Image: Arte
Will you be watching your animated diary? Samuel On 5th February? Let us know in the comments below!