10 most watched Netflix original series of 2025 so far

In 2025, Netflix continues to dominate the streaming landscape, captivating over 200 million subscribers worldwide with its diverse slate of original series. From heart-pounding thrillers to affectionate dramas and family-friendly hits, the platform’s top shows reflect a global appetite for storytelling that goes beyond borders and genres. Drawing from Netflix’s biannual engagement report (January–June 2025), which logged 95 billion hours of viewership, and insights from Variety and ScreenRant, here are the 10 most watched Netflix original series of 2025 so far, exploring why they’ve hooked audiences. These rankings are based on views (hours watched divided by runtime), showcasing Netflix’s biggest hits and cultural impact.

Adolescence (145 Million Views)

Topping the charts is Adolescence, a four-episode U.K. limited series that’s become Netflix’s most-watched show of 2025. This raw, emotional drama explores teenage turmoil with a fresh lens, resonating globally for its unflinching portrayal of youth. Netflix subscribers praise its “gripping” narrative, noting it held the No. 1 spot for nearly a month. Critics highlight its universal appeal, though some find its intensity heavy for casual viewing. Adolescence proves Netflix’s ability for turning niche stories into global phenomena.

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Squid Game: Season 2 (117 Million Views)

The South Korean sensation Squid Game returned with Season 2, delivering more deadly games and social commentary, amassing 117 million views. Lee Jung-jae’s Gi-hun faces new challenges in this dystopian thriller, with fans calling it a record-breaking launch and love the “twisty” plot, though some feel it doesn’t match Season 1’s shock. Its high-stakes action suits thrill-seeking dads, perfect for a tense movie night. The series’ global draw underscores Netflix’s strength in non-English content, with Season 3 already in the top 10.

Squid Game: Season 3 (72 Million Views)

The final chapter of Squid Game, released in 2025, hit 72 million views in just four days, securing third place. This season wraps up the trilogy with thrilling games but stumbles with “messy side plots,” social media posts applaud the “insane” finale, though critics note it falls short of Season 1’s brilliance. Movie enthusiasts who love action and strategy will enjoy dissecting its moral dilemmas. Its rapid success solidified Squid Game as Netflix’s most-watched franchise, with 1.65 billion hours across seasons.

Zero Day (63 Million Views)

Zero Day, a limited series starring Robert De Niro, tackles a cyber-crisis threatening global stability, earning 63 million views. This political thriller’s high stakes and De Niro’s gravitas make it a standout, with fans on social media calling it “unmissable.” Critics applaud its intricate plot and perfect for movie fans who love espionage, sparking debates about tech and power. As one of four limited series in the top 10, it highlights Netflix’s trend toward concise, high-impact stories. Some find its pacing slow, but its star power drives viewership.

Missing You (58 Million Views)

Another UK hit, Missing You, a limited series, follows a detective unraveling a personal mystery, garnering 58 million views. Its emotional depth and twists have fans like hooked, comparing it to Your Honor. This show is ideal for fans for its mix of drama and suspense suits dads who enjoy crime stories, perfect for a cozy evening discussion. The series’ success reflects Netflix’s strong UK output, though some viewers find its resolution predictable. Its limited format ensures a satisfying, self-contained watch.

Sirens (Views Not Specified)

Sirens, another limited series, joins the top 10 with its provocative take on wealth and power, starring Julianne Moore and Meghann Fahy. Specific view counts are unavailable, but its buzz places it among Netflix’s top 10 shows. Fans praise its “sharp” writing and is ideal for fans who love witty dramas. As another limited series, it reinforces Netflix’s 2025 trend of short, impactful narratives, though some find its tone divisive.

Ms. Rachel: Season 1 (53 Million Views)

Preschool sensation Ms. Rachel Season 1, led by YouTuber Rachel Accurso, charmed young families with 53 million views, a rare kids’ show in the top 10. Its educational songs and warmth make it a hit, with parents like on social media calling it a “lifesaver.” Its success shows Netflix’s family-friendly strength, though it’s less engaging for older viewers. Expect joyful, interactive fun.

The Night Agent: Season 2 (Views Not Specified, Top 10)

The Night Agent: Season 2, a political thriller, continues its 2023 debut’s momentum, landing in the top 10. Gabriel Basso’s FBI agent Peter Sutherland faces new conspiracies, with fans like praising its “nonstop action.” Its fast pace suits movie enthusiasts who love spy dramas, ideal for a thrilling watch party. Exact views aren’t listed, but its ranking reflects strong engagement. Some find it formulaic, but its bingeable format drives popularity.

Ginny & Georgia: Season 3 (Views Not Specified, Top 10)

Ginny & Georgia Season 3, a mother-daughter dramedy, secures a top 10 spot with its mix of angst and crime. Antonia Gentry and Brianne Howey shine, with social media users like loving its “juicy” twists. Its family dynamics resonate with fans, great for a heartfelt screening and chat. View counts are unlisted, but its consistent popularity since 2021 ensures a strong showing. Critics note pacing issues, but fans adore its soapy charm.

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Black Mirror: Season 7 (31 Million Views)

The dystopian anthology Black Mirror: Season 7, with 31 million views, rounds out the list, featuring a standout “USS Callister” sequel starring Cristin Milioti. Fans on social media call it “mind-bending,” perfect for tech-savvy fans. Its standalone episodes make it easy to watch select stories, sparking debates about AI and society. While lower in views, its critical acclaim and cultural impact secure its spot. Some episodes feel uneven, but its bold ideas captivate.

Why these series matter in 2025

Netflix’s 2025 top 10 showcases its global reach, with over a third of views from non-English titles like Squid Game and four limited series reflecting a trend toward concise storytelling. The 95 billion hours watched, 1% increase from 2024 highlight Netflix’s dominance despite competition, with co-CEO Greg Peters predicting a stronger second half. Older originals like Orange Is the New Black and Money Heist also racked up over 100 million hours, proving Netflix’s catalog endurance.

From Adolescence’s raw emotion to Ms. Rachel’s joyful tunes, Netflix’s 2025 series are cultural touchstones, perfect for celebrating dads and sparking memories. As critics puts it, Netflix’s “solid year” keeps viewers hooked, and these top 10 prove why. Grab the remote, gather the family, and dive into these global sensations.