Netflix finally unveils its all-time top TV shows - with number one a surprise

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Stranger Things, Wednesday and Bridgerton all feature in Netflix
Stranger Things, Wednesday and Bridgerton all feature in Netflix's top ten TV series of all time. (Image: Netflix)

Netflix 's already gargantuan library is forever expanding with a steady stream of original releases and captivating finds from around the world.

While we're all familiar with Netflix's 'dynamic Top 10', which ebbs and flows based on regional viewing trends, the streaming platform has now started sharing weekly countdowns to offer greater transparency on what we're actually watching. Many of us are interested to know what Netflix's most-watched series of all time is, and this can be harder to work out than you might think.

It is apparently decided upon via a combination of 'hours viewed' and 'views' overall. So after much speculation of 'is it Stranger Things?' or 'I bet it's Bridgerton', Netflix has finally revealed its top ten TV series of all time, in the English language category. The figures are calculated on views for each show's first 91 days on Netflix, and are accurate as of February 4, 2024.

10: The Witcher, Season 1

Hours viewed: 663,600,000

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Views: 83,000,000

The Witcher is based on the popular book series by Andrzej Sapkowski. It has an uncanny ability to captivate audiences with its rich fantasy world and complex characters.

The show follows Geralt of Rivia, a stoic and skilled monster hunter known as a Witcher, as he navigates a morally grey world filled with political intrigue, magical creatures, and warring kingdoms. Henry Cavill's portrayal of Geralt is magnetic, absolutely nailing the character's blend of strength and vulnerability.

The series deftly weaves together multiple timelines which create a satisfying and compelling narrative. With its breathtaking landscapes, intense action sequences, and larger than life storylines, Season 1 of The Witcher is a thrilling ride for both fans of the books and newcomers to the world of fantasy.

9: Fool Me Once

Hours viewed: 545,000,000

Views: 84,900,000

Following the loss of her husband, a mum finds herself in a state of mourning when, just a fortnight after his funeral, she glimpses him alive and well on her home's nanny cam. The revelation sparks questions: was his death a facade? Or could there be more sinister forces at play?

Fool Me Once, crafted by best-selling author Harlan Coben, is a riveting tale of secrets and deception, where the bonds of trust are tested against the backdrop of unexpected revelations. As Coben says, the story is a gripping narrative that explores how deceit has the power to both unite and divide.

8: Bridgerton, season 2

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Hours viewed: 797,200,000

Views: 93,800,000

Set in the Regency era of London, the series follows the lives and loves of the Bridgerton family and their social circle. While the absence of the enigmatic Duke of Hastings may leave some fans mourning, the introduction of new characters, particularly the formidable Kate Sharma, brings fresh energy and intrigue to the narrative.

As the love story between Anthony Bridgerton and Kate unfolds amid the backdrop of high society's intricate rules and scandals, viewers are once again swept away into a world of forbidden desires and whispered secrets. With its sumptuous costumes, sizzling chemistry, and scandalous revelations, Season 2 of Bridgerton delivers all the drama and romance that fans have come to expect, ensuring another binge-worthy viewing experience.

7: Stranger Things, season 3

Hours viewed: 716,100,000

Views: 94,800,000

This enormously popular sci-fi series, set in the summer of 1985, continues to follow the beloved group of friends — Mike, Eleven, Dustin, Lucas, Will, and Max — as they navigate the complexities of adolescence amid otherworldly threats.

This season introduces new mysteries, including the sinister experiments of the Starcourt Mall and a powerful new enemy lurking beneath the town. As the bonds between the characters are tested and secrets come to light, viewers are treated to a rollercoaster of suspense, humour, and heartwarming moments.

With its nostalgic nods to the era's pop culture, stellar performances from the cast, and a soundtrack that perfectly captures the times, Season 3 of Stranger Things delivers yet another binge-worthy instalment that leaves audiences eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the saga.

6: The Night Agent, season 1

Hours viewed: 803,200,000

Views: 98,200,000

Adapted from the gripping Matthew Quirk novel, the show follows the journey of Peter Sutherland, a modest FBI agent portrayed by Gabriel Basso, as he becomes entangled in a far-reaching conspiracy involving a Russian operative and the upper echelons of the US government.

Helmed by Shawn Ryan, the creative genius behind The Shield, the series boasts a stellar ensemble cast including Eve Harlow, Luciane Buchanan, DB Woodside, Sarah Desjardins, Ben Cotton, Kari Matchett, Robert Patrick, Fola Evans-Akingbola, Phoenix Rael, Christopher Shyer, Robert Patrick, Toby Levins, Enrique Muriciano, and Oscar nominee Hong Chau.

5: The Queen's Gambit

Hours viewed: 746,400,000

Views: 112,800,000

Set against the backdrop of the Cold War era, the show follows the journey of Beth Harmon, a young orphaned chess prodigy, brilliantly portrayed by Anya Taylor-Joy.

As Beth rises through the ranks of the male-dominated world of competitive chess, she grapples with addiction, loneliness, and the pressures of success. The series beautifully explores themes of ambition, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence, all while showcasing stunning cinematography and period-appropriate set design.

With its compelling storyline, nuanced character development, and Taylor-Joy's mesmerising performance, The Queen's Gambit has captured the hearts and minds of audiences worldwide, solidifying its place as a modern classic.

4: Bridgerton, season 1

Hours viewed : 929,300,000

Views: 113,300,000

Here we are again! Only this time, it's season 1. Adapted from Julia Quinn's bestselling novels, the series follows the esteemed Bridgerton family as they navigate the intricacies of high society's social scene, scandals, and romance. At its heart is the whirlwind romance between Daphne Bridgerton, played by Phoebe Dynevor, and the brooding Duke of Hastings, portrayed by Rege-Jean Page.

3: DAHMER: Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story

Hours viewed: 1,031,100,000

Views: 115,600,000

This chilling and meticulously crafted limited series delves into the horrors of one of America's most notorious serial killers. Directed by Ryan Murphy and Carl Franklin, the show offers a harrowing glimpse into the life and crimes of Jeffrey Dahmer, portrayed with eerie intensity by Evan Peters.

Through a combination of archival footage, dramatic reenactments, and firsthand accounts, the show explores the psychological complexities of Dahmer's psyche and the societal factors that enabled his atrocities.

As the narrative unfolds, viewers are confronted with the unsettling reality of Dahmer's depravity and the devastating impact it had on his victims and their families. With its haunting visuals, gripping storytelling, and powerful performances, Dahmer: Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story is a chilling examination of evil and its aftermath, leaving a lasting impression on audiences long after the credits roll.

2: Stranger Things, season 4

Hours viewed: 1,838,000,000

Views: 140,700,000

Season 4 brought us an electrifying continuation of the beloved supernatural series. Set in the 1980s in the small town of Hawkins, Indiana, the latest series uncovered deeper mysteries and thrills. As the core group of friends — Eleven, Mike, Dustin, Lucas, Will, and Max — faced new challenges and even better-kept secrets.

Viewers were more than satisified by its gripping narrative that delves into the complexities of friendship, courage, and the unexplainable. The season attracted stellar reviews, with critics and viewers lauding the performances, visuals, action sequences, realistic themes, soundtrack, emotional depth, and the shift towards a darker, more mature tone.

1: Wednesday, season 1

Hours viewed: 1,718,800,000

Views: 252,100,000

Wednesday's child is full of wow - as this deliciously deadpan take on The Addams Family proved a spooktacular record-breaking success for Netflix. The show was billed as “a sleuthing, supernaturally-infused mystery” charting the young Wednesday Addams (Jenna Ortega) after she is expelled from her “normal” high school over an incident involving piranhas.

When she is sent to Nevermore Academy – a boarding school for outcasts, freaks and monsters – the raven-haired teen attempts to master her emerging psychic ability and thwart a monstrous killing spree that has terrorised the local town.

The iconic character also attempts to solve the supernatural mystery that embroiled her parents 25 years ago, while navigating her new and very tangled relationships at Nevermore.

Paul Speed

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