Plex HTPC [W11] black freeze after last episode

Server Version#: 4.147.1
Player Version#: 1.71.1.346-f62ce923

So, I’ve found others with this issue, but with no solution. I’m here to try again.

Issue:

  • After the last episode of a series, or at the end of a movie. Plex does not return to the menu, but instead freezes at a black screen.
  • Player controls are active, but it says “playing” at the end of the media but without it progressing.

Reproduce:

  • Choose the last released episode of any series with the setting “Player Experience → Auto-play Countdown Time” set to “Immediate”, and let the player run to the end of the media.

Gaffer tape solution:

  • Choose a 5 second countdown.
  • Does not go back to menu, but at least you get some kind of feedback, not just black.

Preferred solution:

  • Return to main menu after last episode has finished.