- Netflix’s The Watcher, a mystery/thriller written by Ryan Murphy, became the most-watched show on the platform for two weeks after its release, focusing on a suburban town in New Jersey.
- Despite mixed critical reviews, the first season of The Watcher totaled 273.2M hours viewed in its first two weeks, leading to the production of a second season currently in the works.
- It remains uncertain whether the storyline will continue with the Brannock family or shift to an anthology style for the upcoming season of The Watcher.
Netflix found another gem in the not so true crime thrillerThe Watcher, which was the most-watched show on the platform for two weeks after its release and dominated the top 10.
The mystery/thriller was written by Ryan Murphy of American Horror Story lore and focused on a suburban paradise town in New Jersey. Season 1 of the show starred Naomi Watts and Bobby Cannavale as Nora and Dean Brannock, a couple who exhaust their savings to purchase their dream home in the suburbs.
Soon after moving to their new home in Westfield, NJ, the Brannocks begin receiving mysterious letters from the Watcher, who promises to keep a constant eye on the home and its new residents.
‘Season 2’ Appears to be in Production
The first season of the show debuted in October 2022, just in time for scary season. While the show wasn’t exactly a critical success, the series totaled 273.2M hours viewed in its first two weeks of release.
Four years later, What’s on Netflix is reporting the show is finally in production for a second season.
“Multiple productionies is gearing up to start production sometime this year. Earlier listings in the year suggested that filming would start as early as mid-June 2026 and wrap up by mid-March 2027. However, others suggest, such as ProductionWeekly, that filming may not begin until October 2026 in New York,” What’s on Netflix reported
The exaggerated storyline from Murphy received just a 54% from critics and a measly 36% from audiences, but the viewership totals appear to have carried enough weight for Netflix to move forward with another season.
It’s unclear if the story will continue for the Brannock family or if the series shifts to an anthology style.
This story was originally published byMen’s Journalon Jul 17, 2026, where it first appeared in theNewssection. Add Men’s Journal as aPreferred
