In an unfortunate blow to Netflix’s blockbuster rollout, The Old Guard 2 — the action-packed sequel to the 2020 hit — was reportedly leaked online within hours of its official debut on July 2, 2025. The leak has sparked serious concerns within the global entertainment industry over the ongoing challenges of digital piracy and its impact on film distribution and revenue.
Starring Charlize Theron in her returning role as Andromache of Scythia, alongside new cast additions like Kiki Layne, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Uma Thurman, the film was billed as one of Netflix’s biggest summer releases. It premiered globally both in select theaters and on the streaming platform on Wednesday morning.
But just hours later, pirated versions of the film surfaced on torrent websites and illegal streaming platforms, with high-definition copies widely circulated across Telegram channels, Reddit forums, and file-sharing communities.
According to cybersecurity monitoring firm CyberVision Labs, the leak originated from a screener copy uploaded via an anonymous IP routed through Eastern Europe. The pirated file included time-stamp watermarks and was first spotted around 11:30 a.m. GMT, roughly four hours after the film’s premiere.
“This level of speed suggests either a security lapse in distribution or unauthorized access to internal review copies,” said Alexei Markov, a digital piracy analyst. “It’s a sophisticated leak — not just a camcorder rip.”
As of Wednesday evening, Netflix had not issued a formal public statement, but sources within the company confirmed that a takedown effort was underway, with DMCA notices sent to dozens of websites and service providers.
An insider close to the production told Daily Post Nigeria:
“We take piracy seriously, and internal teams are working closely with law enforcement and cybersecurity agencies to track the origin of the leak.”
The leak has reignited the conversation around digital piracy and its threats to content creators. Although platforms like Netflix have improved anti-piracy technologies, no release — no matter how secure — is entirely immune.
Film analyst Jason Mbanefo noted that high-profile titles are especially vulnerable:
“These aren’t just losses in revenue; they damage the premiere buzz and affect viewership data that drive renewal decisions. Netflix invests hundreds of millions in original IP — leaks like this are disruptive.”
The Old Guard 2 continues the saga of a secret group of immortal warriors who fight to protect the world across centuries. Directed by Victoria Mahoney, the sequel dives deeper into the backstories of the ancient characters and introduces a global threat that puts their existence at risk.
Fans had eagerly anticipated the sequel following the original film’s success during the 2020 lockdown era, which made it one of Netflix’s most-watched titles at the time.
Despite the leak, early audience reviews have praised the sequel for its action sequences, diverse cast, and emotional depth. However, loyal fans took to social media to express their frustration over piracy, with many urging others to watch through official platforms.
“Support the filmmakers, not the thieves. If you loved part one, don’t steal part two,” one fan posted on X.
As The Old Guard 2 kicks off its global run amid strong anticipation and unfortunate piracy threats, the incident is yet another wake-up call for the film industry to reinforce digital protection and rethink release strategies in the streaming era.