Add external IDs
Updating Connected IDs on TVDB
When adding a new show to TheTVDB, you’re asked to enter two primary connected IDs, usually IMDb and TheMovieDB (TMDB).
These links help TheTVDB sync with other major databases and ensure that your entry connects correctly with related metadata sources like SIMKL and JustWatch.
However, over time, these IDs may become incorrect, outdated, or missing, especially if the original source URLs get deleted, changed, or removed.
This guide explains how to verify and update your External Links & Connection IDs to maintain accuracy.
What Are Connected IDs?
Connected IDs are external database links that associate your show with other platforms and data sources.
They include identifiers from IMDb, TMDB, TV Maze, Wikidata, and other sites.
These IDs allow TheTVDB to automatically link:
Cast and crew information
Posters, artwork, and metadata
Streaming availability
SIMKL synchronization
Where to Find or Edit Connection IDs
You can add or edit connection IDs directly from a show’s edit panel.
Step 1: Open the Series Page
From the TV show’s main page, click:
⚙️ Settings → Edit Series
Step 2: Scroll to “External Links and IDs”
Under the Edit Series section, scroll down until you see the “External Links and IDs” panel.
Here, you can add or update:
IMDb ID (
https://www.imdb.com/title/ttXXXXXXX)TMDB ID (
https://www.themoviedb.org/tv/XXXX)TV Maze ID
Wikidata / Wikipedia links
Social media pages (Twitter/X, Instagram, Facebook)
Official network or streaming links
Step 3: Add or Correct Missing Links
If any ID or URL field is blank or broken:
Visit the official source (IMDb, TMDB, etc.)
Copy the correct link or identifier
Paste it into the relevant field
Click Save
Example: IMDb:
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt15571732TMDB:https://www.themoviedb.org/tv/138501Official Website:https://www.disneyplus.com/series/agatha-all-along/6NF0RlVHbJnh
Commonly Used External Links
In addition to IMDb and TMDB, you can also connect to other relevant sources:
IMDb ID
https://www.imdb.com/title/ttXXXXXXX
Links to cast, crew, and episode details
TMDB ID
https://www.themoviedb.org/tv/XXXX
Used by SIMKL for artwork and metadata sync
Official Website
e.g., https://www.netflix.com/title/80223108
Helps verify show ownership or platform
Facebook / Instagram / X
https://www.instagram.com/seriesname
Adds legitimacy and community reach
https://www.reddit.com/r/SeriesName
Adds verified fan or community subreddits
TV Maze / Zap2It / Wikidata
Database and source cross-references
YouTube Channel
For official trailers or behind-the-scenes content
Common Issues with Connected IDs
Deleted or Moved URLs: Some IDs point to outdated or removed pages. Solution: Search for the current live version and replace the old link.
Incorrect Cross-linking: Wrong TMDB or IMDb ID links the show to another title entirely. Solution: Verify via cast, release date, and episode details before updating.
Missing Official Pages: Social media or streaming site links are empty or incorrect. Solution: Add verified, official accounts only, not fan pages.
Duplicated Entries: Multiple records may exist for the same show due to incorrect IDs. Solution: Report duplicates to TheTVDB moderators for merging.
Why Connected IDs Are Important
Cross-Database Sync
Ensures TVDB data matches IMDb, TMDB, and SIMKL entries.
Improved Metadata Accuracy
Correct IDs pull the right posters, episode data, and air dates.
Global Discoverability
Allows users from different platforms to find the same title.
Reduced Errors
Prevents duplication and mislabeling between databases.
Enhanced Linking
Allows automatic redirection to official show sources.
;Pro Tips
Always verify the ID before saving, a single typo can link to the wrong series.
For Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, or Prime Video series, use their official URLs.
If unsure, cross-check using Wikidata or Wikipages to confirm.
Avoid adding fan-made or unofficial pages.
If a field is locked, contact TVDB support for moderator approval.
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