UPDATE: Netflix’s new Western series, The Abandons, has surged to global success, amassing 7.3 million views in just one week since its release on December 4, 2025. Starring Lena Headey, best known for her role as Cersei Lannister in Game of Thrones, the series is currently ranked fourth on Netflix’s Global Top 10 shows.
With a staggering viewership, The Abandons has quickly become a sensation, outpacing shows like Stranger Things season 2 and The Rats: A Witcher Tale. It has also claimed a spot in the Top 10 in 75 countries, including a number one ranking in Romania. However, despite its popularity, the show received mixed reviews, with a 31% score on Rotten Tomatoes from critics and a 52% audience rating, highlighting a disconnect between viewership and critical acclaim.
Created by Kurt Sutter, The Abandons follows a devout Irish woman in the 1850s who adopts four orphans while facing conflict with European aristocrats. The series also features a star-studded cast, including Gillian Anderson, Nick Robinson, and Patton Oswalt.
While critical reception has been lukewarm, with reviewers noting thin character development and uninspired storytelling, the show’s impressive viewership numbers suggest it could be renewed for a second season. This potential renewal is significant given the competitive streaming landscape and the ongoing battle for audience attention.
As viewers continue to flock to the series, the future of The Abandons remains uncertain but promising. With its unique premise and strong performances, it has captivated audiences, sparking discussions across social media platforms.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and the fate of The Abandons as Netflix assesses its next moves in the wake of its surprising success.