Netflix's viewing data transparency has been a game-changer, offering a unique glimpse into viewer preferences and trends. The biannual 'What We Watched' reports, which have now transitioned to an annual format, showcase the platform's most-watched shows over the past four years. This shift to annual reporting marks a strategic move by Netflix to provide deeper insights into viewer behavior, potentially influencing content creation and investment decisions.
The top 20 list reveals a diverse range of shows, from critically acclaimed dramas to animated family favorites. Here's a breakdown of the rankings and the insights they offer:
- Squid Game Season 2: With a staggering 225.4 million views, this Korean sensation remains Netflix's most-watched show. The series' success is a testament to its global appeal and the platform's ability to cater to diverse tastes.
- Adolescence: This one-shot limited series, starring Stephen Graham and Jack Thorne, secured the second spot with 171.6 million views. Its critical acclaim and Emmy/BAFTA wins further solidify its impact on the streaming landscape.
Squid Game Season 3: The third installment in the Squid Game franchise, which premiered in June 2025, amassed 155.8 million views, reinforcing the series' enduring popularity.
Bridgerton Season 3: The third season of this period drama, starring Luke Newton and Nicola Coughlan, captivated viewers with 154.2 million views, highlighting the enduring appeal of period dramas.
Stranger Things Season 5: The final season of this sci-fi hit, which has amassed over half a billion views in total, secured the fifth spot with 149.1 million views, solidifying its place as one of Netflix's all-time favorites.
Fool Me Once: Harlan Coben's British series, starring Michelle Keegan, attracted 138.3 million views, showcasing the writer's consistent ability to draw viewers in.
Ms. Rachel Season 1: The children's music specialist series, Ms. Rachel, secured the seventh spot with 137.5 million views, indicating Netflix's commitment to catering to younger audiences.
Wednesday Season 2: Jenna Ortega's portrayal of Wednesday Addams in this Tim Burton series secured the eighth spot with 133.1 million views, cementing her as a rising star on the platform.
Stranger Things Season 1: This season, which premiered in 2017, maintained its popularity with 127.5 million views, further solidifying the show's cult following.
Peppa Pig Season 6: This British animated series, which started as a small show over 20 years ago, has become a massive hit with 127.4 million views, demonstrating the enduring appeal of family-friendly content.
One Piece Season 1: The live-action adaptation of the Japanese manga, which tells the story of Monkey D. Luffy, attracted 125.6 million views, indicating the platform's success in adapting popular source material.
Wednesday Season 1: The first season of this Tim Burton series, which premiered before Netflix's reporting era, maintained its popularity with 124.5 million views.
The Gentlemen: Guy Ritchie's drug caper, starring Theo James, launched in 2024 and attracted 105.8 million views, adding to the list of Brit hits on Netflix.
Young Sheldon: Chuck Lorre's CBS comedy, which has been a hit on Netflix, secured 104.2 million views, emphasizing the importance of acquired library content.
His & Hers: The Jon Bernthal and Tessa Thompson drama, which became Netflix's most-watched show in the first half of 2026, attracted 104 million views.
Baby Reindeer: This stalker story, which garnered Emmy and BAFTA awards, secured 103.5 million views, highlighting Netflix's ability to produce critically acclaimed content.
La Palma: The Norwegian limited series, which followed a family affected by a volcanic eruption, attracted 102.3 million views, leading to a sequel series titled 'Florida'.
Stranger Things Season 2: This season, which premiered in 2017, maintained its popularity with 101.8 million views.
Squid Game Season 1: The first season of this Korean franchise, which premiered two years before Netflix's reporting era, secured 101.6 million views.
Untamed: The crime drama, starring Sam Neill and Eric Bana, attracted 101.1 million views, showcasing Netflix's ability to produce diverse content.
This list offers a fascinating insight into viewer preferences, with a mix of critically acclaimed dramas, animated series, and family-friendly content. The shift to annual reporting may provide even deeper insights as Netflix continues to navigate the ever-evolving streaming landscape.
