Netflix’s ‘The Abandons’ Surges to Global Top 10 With 7.3M Views

UPDATE: Netflix’s new Western series, The Abandons, has skyrocketed to success since its release on December 4, 2025, amassing 7.3 million views in its first week alone. The series, starring acclaimed actress Lena Headey, has secured a spot in Netflix’s Global Top 10, currently ranking fourth.

In a surprise twist, The Abandons is not only dominating the streaming charts but is also a Top 10 show in 75 countries, including hitting the number one spot in Romania. This rapid rise comes amid fierce competition from other popular titles like Stranger Things and Sean Combs: The Reckoning.

Created by Kurt Sutter, known for his bold storytelling, The Abandons follows Headey, portraying a devout Irish woman in the 1850s who, unable to have children, adopts four orphans while settling in Oregon. The narrative intensifies as she faces off against European aristocrats claiming her land, adding layers of tension and drama.

While the viewership numbers are impressive, critical reception has been mixed. The show currently holds a dismal 31% score on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics highlighting the strong performances of its cast, including two-time Emmy winner Gillian Anderson, but lamenting its underdeveloped characters and predictable plot.

Audience reception mirrors the critics’ sentiments, resulting in a slightly improved 52% audience score. Despite the lukewarm reviews, the overwhelming viewership indicates a promising future for the series, with strong potential for a second season renewal.

Next Steps: Fans are eagerly awaiting announcements regarding the show’s continuation. With the current success, Netflix is likely to consider The Abandons for further seasons, despite its critical shortcomings.

As viewers continue to engage with this new series, it stands as a testament to the unpredictable nature of streaming success—where viewership can sometimes outweigh critical feedback. Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops!