This Is Us debuted on NBC on September 20, 2016, and concluded its six-season run with its final episode airing on May 24, 2022. The show aired on Thursday nights for most of its broadcast life before shifting schedules in later seasons. In this evergreen explainer, we clarify how the series was originally scheduled, where new and back catalog episodes can be found today, and how its move to streaming and syndication has evolved. Below you can compare original broadcast details with current viewing options for each season.
Original Broadcast Run and Regular Time Slot
Season 1 Premiere and Early Scheduling
In its first season (2016–2017), This Is Us aired weekly episodes on NBC, establishing a reliable Thursday night presence that helped anchor the network’s entertainment block. This scheduling allowed consistent viewer build-up and watercooler conversation around the Pearson family drama. NBC typically released new episodes in standard time slots, with occasional adjustments for holidays and special events.
Seasons 2 Through 5: Consistent Thursday Runs
From Seasons 2 through 5 (2017–2020), the series largely maintained its Thursday night placement, offering viewers a dependable weekly appointment. Ratings remained strong across these seasons, and the show became a central pillar of NBC’s primetime lineup. Midseason and finale airdates aligned with the traditional broadcast calendar, with fall finales and returns following a predictable rhythm.
Season 6 Final Season and Series Finale
Season 6 (2021–2022) was shortened due to the cast and crew preparing for the planned conclusion. The season moved to new times and reduced episode count, culminating with the series finale on May 24, 2022. By this point, scheduling had shifted slightly from earlier patterns to accommodate production timelines and story closure.
| Season | Years | Approx. Episodes | Typical Night | Key Scheduling Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2016–2017 | 18 | Thursday | Premiere Sept 20, 2016; stable timeslot |
| 2 | 2017–2018 | 18 | Thursday | Continued primetime stability |
| 3 | 2018–2019 | 18 | Thursday | Strong midseason performance |
| 4 | 2019–2020 | 18 | Thursday | Schedule paused during pandemic hiatus |
| 5 | 2020–2021 | 18 | Thursday (early), later Sunday | Moved late-season episodes; shortened finale |
| 6 | 2021–2022 | 13 | Variable (Thu/Sun) | Reduced season; series finale May 24, 2022 |
Where to Watch Full Episodes Now
Streaming Platforms and Catalog Availability
All six seasons of This Is Us are available for streaming in many regions, with availability varying by provider. Depending on your location, you may find the complete series on a single service or split across a couple of platforms, so it’s useful to check in-country catalogs for the most accurate mapping. In some markets, newer seasons arrive on streaming with a short holdback after their broadcast premiere, while earlier seasons are typically available immediately.
- Official network apps and websites (where supported) often provide full on-demand access with a cable login or eligible subscription.
- Licensed streaming partners may carry the show; verify local catalogs for the most up-to-date availability.
- Digital purchase and rental options are generally available for individual episodes and seasons from major storefronts.
Syndication and Future Broadcast Plans
Station Acquisitions and Local Lineups
Syndication placements for This Is Us vary by market, with some stations airing the series in weeknight or weekend blocks. Because station schedules differ widely, you can use your ZIP code on network affiliate sites to see whether and when local channels will feature the show. In many areas, weekday or overnight slots are common for syndicated drama series, giving viewers another free over-the-air option to catch up.
International Distribution Patterns
Outside the U.S., broadcasters and streaming services in other countries license the series on varying timelines. Some regions may offer all seasons on a single platform shortly after the finale, while others roll out seasons in batches. If you’re checking from outside the U.S., cross-reference local streaming catalogs and network announcements for the most accurate current status.
How to Find Episodes in Real Time
- Use your cable provider’s on-demand section and search for This Is Us by season and episode number.
- Check channel lineups for local broadcast stations that may air syndicated episodes.
- Visit streaming service help pages to confirm whether the full catalog is included in your subscription or add-on plans.
- Use store apps and sites to buy or rent episodes if no subscription option covers every season in your region.
Comparing Viewing Options
| Option | Access Type | Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Network On-Demand | Free with TV login | Recent seasons in many markets | Requires authenticated provider access |
| Subscription Streaming | Paid monthly/annual | Varies by region; usually full series | Check local catalog for complete availability |
| Digital Purchase/Rental | Paid per episode/season | All seasons, worldwide | Permanent ownership with purchase |
| Local Syndication | Free, over the air | Market-dependent; partial coverage | Use ZIP lookup to confirm local times |
| International Licensees | Varies by country | Region-dependent; may differ by season | Check local broadcasters or streamers |
Key Takeaways
The series finale in May 2022 marked the end of new episodes, but This Is Us remains widely accessible through streaming, purchase, rental, and syndication. Broadcast viewers originally tuned in on Thursday nights across most of the show’s run, with small schedule shifts in later seasons. Because availability and scheduling can differ by location and platform, it’s best to verify locally for current air times and to confirm which services carry the full series in your region.