Just in time for people to catch up with “The Walking Dead,” the AMC series that begins its second season on Oct. 16, the first season is now streaming on Netflix.

The drama, about survivors of a zombie infestation, is the most prominent part of a multiyear content licensing deal announced Friday by Netflix and AMC. The deal is the latest display of Netflix’s determination to license back-seasons of top television shows, thereby diversifying its streaming service beyond feature films.

Earlier this year, the company struck a deal with Lionsgate, the producer of AMC’s “Mad Men,” to stream back seasons of that show.



“We are delighted to be in business directly with AMC Networks,” said Ted Sarandos, the Netflix chief content officer, in a statement. “AMC’s programming sensibilities have struck a chord with our members and with the overall viewing public.”

A selection of other AMC Networks shows will also be streamed on Netflix “just prior to the premiere of subsequent seasons,” according to a news release. Those shows include “Portlandia” on IFC; “Braxton Family Values” on WE; and “All On The Line with Joe Zee” on the Sundance Channel.

Netflix did not disclose the terms of the deal, but it has been willing to pay substantial amounts for other shows and films.

Many Netflix subscribers have complained about the quality of the streaming service’s film catalog; the addition of blue-chip TV shows like “The Walking Dead” may help blunt that.

AMC stands to benefit a couple of ways. Streams of past seasons of shows may spur viewers to tune in via cable or satellite to watch the new seasons. And Josh Sapan, the chief executive of AMC Networks, said in a statement that the deal “provides additional revenue to support production of new shows.”