In a surprising turn of events, the crime thriller series The Red Road, starring Jason Momoa, has re-emerged as a streaming sensation on Netflix. Despite its original airing ending nearly a decade ago, the show has climbed into the top 10 of Netflix’s global charts, reaching the #8 position in the United States and #5 worldwide following its addition to the platform on December 26, 2025.
Reviving Interest in a Long-Overlooked Series
Released in 2014, The Red Road aired for two seasons on the Sundance Channel before its cancellation in 2015. The gritty narrative revolves around Momoa’s character, Phillip Kopus, an ex-convict living on an Indigenous settlement in the Ramapo Mountains of New York. The story intensifies as NYPD officer Harold Jenson investigates the mysterious disappearance of an NYU student, leading to a clash between the two men.
Before its recent Netflix debut, the series was available only on the niche streaming platform AMC+. Its sudden rise in popularity reflects a growing trend of older series finding new audiences on larger streaming platforms, similar to the recent success of 61st Street, another AMC production that recently premiered on Netflix.
Why Viewers Are Binge-Watching
With a total of 12 episodes, each running under 45 minutes, The Red Road is well-suited for binge-watching, making it easy for viewers to consume the entire series in a week. Many new subscribers are discovering the show for the first time, intrigued by its compelling storytelling and high-quality performances. Notably, the series features acclaimed actors such as Julianne Nicholson, a two-time Emmy winner, and the late Tom Sizemore.
The show has received positive feedback from audiences, evidenced by an impressive 86% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. Many fans have expressed disappointment over its cancellation, calling for a third season and praising its depth, character development, and historical context.
For those seeking a captivating watch this week, The Red Road stands out as a top choice. Its combination of intense drama and engaging performances ensures that it is a worthwhile addition to any binge-watching lineup. As streaming platforms continue to curate and revive older content, the return of such series highlights the evolving landscape of television viewing, where past shows can find new life and appreciation.
