Surprising Netflix’s Top 10 Most Watched TV Shows of All Time

From historical dramas to supernatural thrillers, these shows reflect not only exceptional storytelling but also the platform’s global appeal. Let’s dive into these sensational series, their ratings, and the elements that earned them their place in Netflix’s hall of fame.

Learn more: Top 10 Most-Watched Netflix Movies of All Time (Non-English/English Language)

Top 10 Most Popular TV Shows on Netflix of All Time (Global)

10. Bridgerton: Season 2

Bridgerton Season 2: Release Date, Who Cast, Where to Watch and Everything to Know

Release Date: March 25, 2022

Seasons: 2 (ongoing)

Episodes: 16 (across both seasons)

IMDb Rating: 7.4

Returning with its lush regency-era aesthetics and swoon-worthy romances, the second season of Bridgerton shifts focus to Anthony Bridgerton (Jonathan Bailey) and Kate Sharma (Simone Ashley). Their fiery dynamic kept audiences hooked. Building on the explosive popularity of Season 1, this installment showed how Bridgerton seamlessly mixes scandal with heartwarming familial bonds.

9. Stranger Things: Season 3

Release Date: July 4, 2019

Seasons: 4 (fifth and final season in production)

Episodes: 34 (across all seasons)

IMDb Rating: 8.7

The Duffer Brothers delivered an adrenaline-packed third season. Stranger Things 3 intensified the stakes as Hawkins faced the terrifying Mind Flayer. Fan favorites like Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) and Steve Harrington (Joe Keery) grew in complexity, while new characters added depth. The nostalgic 1980s vibe, coupled with supernatural suspense, ensured its enduring popularity.

8. Fool Me Once (Limited Series)

Release Date: March 2024

Seasons: 1

Episodes: 8

IMDb Rating: 7.5

Based on Harlan Coben’s bestselling thriller, Fool Me Once captivated viewers with its riveting plot twists. Michelle Keegan, Richard Armitage, and Adeel Akhtar led the star-studded cast in this suspenseful drama. Its compelling exploration of deception and survival left fans yearning for a potential second season.

7. The Night Agent: Season 1

Release Date: March 23, 2023

Seasons: 1 (renewed for a second season)

Episodes: 10

IMDb Rating: 7.6

This political action-thriller brought edge-of-your-seat storytelling to Netflix. Gabriel Basso stars as Peter Sutherland, an FBI agent unraveling conspiracies from the depths of the White House. Its massive viewership within the first week signaled The Night Agent as a breakout success. Fans eagerly anticipate its upcoming sophomore season.

6. Bridgerton: Season 3

Release Date: December 2023

Seasons: 3 (ongoing)

Episodes: 24 (across all seasons)

IMDb Rating: 7.6

Season three took Bridgerton’s charm to new heights, centering on Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan) and her unrequited love story. The intricate narratives and meticulous character development reinforced its status as a fan-favorite.

5. The Queen’s Gambit (Limited Series)

Release Date: October 23, 2020

Seasons: 1

Episodes: 7

IMDb Rating: 8.6

Beth Harmon’s (Anya Taylor-Joy) journey from orphanhood to chess prodigy mesmerized viewers worldwide. The show’s nuanced portrayal of addiction, genius, and resilience earned it critical acclaim. It became an overnight sensation during the pandemic, reviving global interest in chess.

4. Bridgerton: Season 1

Release Date: December 25, 2020

Seasons: 3 (ongoing)

Episodes: 8 (Season 1)

IMDb Rating: 7.4

The debut season of Bridgerton set Netflix ablaze, reimagining regency romance with vibrant storytelling and diverse casting. Daphne Bridgerton (Phoebe Dynevor) and Simon Basset’s (Regé-Jean Page) tumultuous romance broke records, cementing the series’ iconic status.

3. DAHMER: Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story

Monster The Jeffrey Dahmer Story

Release Date: September 21, 2022

Seasons: 1

Episodes: 10

IMDb Rating: 7.9

This chilling biographical crime drama chronicles the gruesome story of Jeffrey Dahmer, portrayed masterfully by Evan Peters. The series delved into the dark psyche of the infamous serial killer, sparking discussions on true crime narratives and their societal impact. Garnering both accolades and controversy, DAHMER remains a haunting watch.

Who was Jeffrey Dahmer: Full List of Victims and True Story Behind Netflix's Series

2. Stranger Things: Season 4

Release Date: May 27, 2022 (Volume 1); July 1, 2022 (Volume 2)

Seasons: 4 (fifth and final season in production)

Episodes: 9 (Season 4)

IMDb Rating: 8.7

The penultimate season of Stranger Things broke records and hearts with its sprawling storyline and introduction of fan-favorite Eddie Munson (Joseph Quinn). Balancing horror, humor, and heartfelt moments, the show cemented its legacy as one of Netflix’s finest.

1. Wednesday: Season 1

Netflix’s “Wednesday”

Release Date: November 23, 2022

Seasons: 1 (renewed for Season 2)

Episodes: 8

IMDb Rating: 8.1

Tim Burton’s Wednesday reimagined the iconic Addams Family character for a new generation. Jenna Ortega’s gothic charisma and deadpan wit brought Wednesday Addams to life, making her a cultural phenomenon. The show’s mix of dark comedy, mystery, and supernatural elements captivated millions, making it Netflix’s most-watched English-language show.

Conclusion

These ten shows epitomize Netflix’s ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate with audiences worldwide. From thrilling mysteries to heartfelt romances, each series has left an indelible mark on pop culture. Whether you're a die-hard fan revisiting these gems or discovering them for the first time, there’s no doubt they’ve redefined binge-worthy entertainment. Which one’s your favorite? Let the Netflix marathon begin!

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