While House of the Dragon Season 3 continues to dominate headlines—and spark fan debates over pacing and action—George R.R. Martin has another reason to celebrate this July. His executive-produced Western crime series, Dark Winds, has quietly become one of Netflix's biggest success stories of the month.
The AMC original, which aired its fourth season earlier this year, landed on Netflix on July 4, 2026, and has since rocketed up the streaming charts. As of this writing, it sits at number eight on Netflix's U.S. top 10, outperforming true-crime entries like Worst Neighbor Ever and the latest Harlan Coben adaptation, I Will Find You. The show's arrival couldn't be better timed for fans seeking a break from the dragon-filled drama of Westeros.
A Perfect Track Record
Dark Winds isn't just popular—it's critically flawless. Across all four seasons, the series has maintained a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes, a rare achievement that even the most beloved shows rarely attain. In a review of the latest season, Collider's Michael John Petty praised the writing, calling each twist "unexpectedly delightful." The series was also executive-produced by the late Robert Redford, adding a layer of cinematic pedigree.
Set in the 1970s Southwest, the show follows Navajo police officers Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee as they investigate complex crimes on a reservation. It's a slow-burn crime thriller that rewards patient viewers with rich character work and stunning landscapes.
Why It's a Must-Watch Now
For those who missed Dark Winds during its AMC run, Netflix offers a perfect opportunity to binge all four seasons. The show's streaming success is a testament to its universal appeal—combining Martin's knack for intricate storytelling with the gritty realism of a Western noir. It's also a welcome palate cleanser for fans frustrated by the creative tensions between Martin and House of the Dragon showrunner Ryan Condal, which the author has described as "abysmal."
If you're looking for more crime thrillers that deliver tension and depth, check out our list of crime thrillers that outshine David Fincher's 'Seven'. And for those who can't get enough of Netflix's true-crime offerings, here's how Jason Blum's 'Worst Neighbor Ever' became Netflix's must-watch true-crime franchise.
What's Next for Martin on Netflix?
With Dark Winds proving that Martin's touch extends beyond fantasy, fans are already speculating about what other projects might land on the streamer. Meanwhile, the fourth season is available to stream now, and with its perfect critical record, it's a safe bet for anyone craving a well-crafted mystery.
Stay tuned to ShowtimeSpot for the latest streaming stories and updates on all things George R.R. Martin.
