Netflix has kicked off 2026 with a major treat for fans of suspense, reintroducing the complete, gripping thriller series 'The Following' to its UK library. All three seasons of the show, which has been hailed as a hybrid of Se7en and Criminal Minds, landed back on the platform on Saturday, 3 January.
A Chilling Premise Returns
The drama, which first aired on Fox in 2013, follows the story of troubled former FBI agent Ryan Hardy. Hardy is forced out of retirement when the notorious serial killer he put behind bars, Joe Carroll, ingeniously escapes from death row. This sets off a deadly game of cat and mouse that had viewers originally hooked.
The series quickly developed a fervent fanbase upon its initial release. One admirer labelled it their "new addiction", while others praised its blend of intellectual forensic psychology and heart-thumping cinematic suspense. An IMDb user wrote, "This show is packed with action and chilling twists that keep you hooked episode after episode."
Star-Studded Cast Led by an 80s Icon
Heading the cast is Kevin Bacon, the Footloose legend, who plays the relentless ex-agent Ryan Hardy. He is joined by James Purefoy (The Witcher, Land of Women) in a chilling performance as the charismatic and manipulative killer Joe Carroll.
The supporting cast is equally impressive, featuring Natalie Zea (Justified) as Carroll's ex-wife Claire Matthews, Shawn Ashmore (The Rookie), Valorie Curry (Veronica Mars), and Jessica Stroup (90210).
Fan Acclaim and Streaming History
Fan reactions highlighted the show's intense appeal. "I do not scare easily but this series had me sitting on the tip of my seat!" exclaimed one viewer. Another advised, "If you are a person who loved all the awesome horror flicks we had in the 1990s then prepare yourself for the ultimate horror show."
'The Following' was previously available on Netflix but was removed when its licensing deal with Warner Bros Television expired. The renewal of this agreement has now made the entire series available for streaming once again, much to the delight of subscribers.
With its return, Netflix offers a perfect binge-watch for the new year—a critically acclaimed thriller that combines a stellar cast with a relentlessly suspenseful plot. 'The Following' is available to stream in full on Netflix now.
