Netflix’s “The Abandons” Starring Lena Headey Takes Streaming by Storm

Netflix’s new Western series, The Abandons, has quickly made its mark since its release on December 4, 2025. Starring Lena Headey, best known for her role as Cersei Lannister in HBO’s Game of Thrones, the series has garnered a substantial audience. It ranks fourth on Netflix’s Global Top 10 shows, amassing 7.3 million views during the week of December 1–7. This impressive figure places it just behind Stranger Things season 5 and Sean Combs: The Reckoning, demonstrating its appeal among viewers.

The Abandons has achieved significant success internationally, appearing in the Top 10 in 75 countries this week, including a notable number one ranking in Romania. This upward trajectory has positioned the series as a contender for potential renewal despite mixed critical reception.

The Story and Its Cast

Created by Kurt Sutter, The Abandons follows the journey of a devout Irish woman in the 1850s, portrayed by Headey. Unable to have children, her character adopts four orphans and settles in Oregon, only to confront European aristocrats claiming her newly acquired home. The series features a talented cast, including two-time Emmy winner Gillian Anderson, alongside Nick Robinson, Diana Silvers, Aisling Franciosi, Lucas Till, Lamar Johnson, Natalia del Riego, and Patton Oswalt.

Despite its strong performances, The Abandons has received a lukewarm response from critics. Currently, it holds a 31% score on Rotten Tomatoes, with reviews highlighting the actors’ talents while criticizing the series for its thin character development and familiar themes. Audience reactions have been slightly more favorable, with a score of 52%.

Future Prospects

The viewership success of The Abandons raises questions about its future. While critical feedback has not been overwhelmingly positive, the strong audience numbers suggest that there is enough interest for the series to potentially secure a second season. This dynamic illustrates the complex relationship between audience engagement and critical acclaim in the current entertainment landscape.

As The Abandons continues to gain traction, it remains to be seen how the show will evolve and whether it can address the concerns raised by critics. With its compelling premise and a strong leading cast, the series has set a foundation for further exploration in future episodes.