Fans of psychological crime dramas have been spoiled lately. Netflix's Unabomber with Russell Crowe offered a gripping look into a criminal's mind, but for those craving something with more critical acclaim, there's a hidden gem that's about to slip away. David Tennant's chilling three-part series Des is officially leaving Netflix in the UK on November 8, 2026.
Des, which premiered in 2020 as part of ITV's anthology of true-crime stories, dives deep into the horrifying case of Dennis Nilsen, a Scottish serial killer arrested in 1983. The show meticulously follows the police investigation, the tense interrogations, and the eventual trial that captivated the nation. It's a slow-burn, dialogue-driven thriller that focuses on the psychology of a murderer rather than graphic violence—a perfect pick for fans of David Fincher's Mindhunter.
Tennant delivers a career-defining performance as Nilsen, earning him an International Emmy Award. His portrayal is both chilling and nuanced, making Des a standout in the true-crime genre. The series holds a 'Certified Fresh' 90% score on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising its smart scripting and eerie atmosphere.
Des is often compared to Ryan Murphy's Monster anthology on Netflix, but it takes a more restrained, investigative approach. It's the 11th entry in ITV's series of shows based on infamous British murder cases, following Appropriate Adult and Little Boy Blue. If you're a fan of gothic thrillers that explore the darker side of human nature, this is a must-watch.
The departure of Des is part of a broader shift in Netflix's UK library. Tennant's beloved murder-mystery Broadchurch is also leaving the US platform on November 1. Meanwhile, other titles like Mark Rylance's The Outfit and Tom Hardy's Bane are also departing in November, so it's a good time to catch up on your watchlist.
For those who haven't seen Des yet, now is the time. With only a few weeks left, you can binge all three episodes in one sitting. It's a gripping, thought-provoking series that will stay with you long after the credits roll. And if you're looking for more true-crime recommendations, check out our list of other Netflix gems before they vanish.
Don't miss your chance to see Tennant at his most haunting. Mark your calendars for November 8, because after that, Des will be gone from Netflix UK—at least for now.
