Lana Parrilla has a knack for making every role she takes on feel indispensable. From her iconic dual performance as Regina and the Evil Queen in Once Upon a Time to her recent guest arc in The Lincoln Lawyer, she consistently commands attention. Now, she's trading the courtroom drama of Mickey Haller for a grittier legal world, and audiences are eating it up.
Parrilla's latest project, The Rainmaker, has quietly become a streaming powerhouse on Prime Video. The USA Network series, which premiered last year and is currently airing its second season, has climbed to the number one spot on FlixPatrol, a ranking that tracks global streaming popularity. This surge in viewership is a testament to the show's compelling storytelling and Parrilla's magnetic presence.
From Lisa Trammell to Bruiser Stone
In The Lincoln Lawyer, Parrilla played Lisa Trammell, a woman who initially charms Mickey Haller (Manuel Garcia-Rulfo) before her dark secrets unravel. Her performance in that guest role was so memorable that it left fans wanting more. Now, she's taken on a completely different character in The Rainmaker: Jocelyn "Bruiser" Stone, a tough-as-nails lawyer who leads a small but dedicated team of attorneys.
Unlike Haller's polished demeanor, Bruiser is all grit and determination. She's the kind of lawyer who isn't afraid to get her hands dirty, and she brings a raw authenticity to the role. Parrilla's portrayal makes it easy to believe that Rudy Baylor (Milo Callaghan), the show's protagonist, has a fierce ally in his corner as he takes on institutional corruption.
A Streaming Sensation
While USA Network doesn't release weekly viewership numbers, the show's performance on Prime Video speaks volumes. U.S. viewers can stream new episodes on the platform, and they're clearly hooked. The show's first season may have received mixed reviews from critics, with a 55% score on Rotten Tomatoes, but audiences have embraced it with an 83% approval rating. This disconnect highlights the show's appeal to a general audience that appreciates its darker themes and witty dialogue.
The Rainmaker marks USA Network's return to scripted programming after a hiatus, and it brings back the network's signature blend of legal drama and character-driven storytelling. The pacing is slower than typical network fare, allowing for deeper exploration of each case, and the weekly format keeps viewers coming back for more.
What's Next for 'The Rainmaker'?
In the upcoming episode titled "Numerosity," Rudy's case evolves into a class action lawsuit, while Amanda (Merle Dandrige) tests Sarah's (Madison Iseman) loyalty. Meanwhile, Bruiser lends a hand to Tom (Austin Nichols) and his star pitcher. The stakes are higher than ever, and fans are eagerly awaiting each new installment.
If you're looking for a legal drama that's both gripping and character-driven, The Rainmaker is worth your time. And for those who can't get enough of Parrilla's work, her performance here is a must-watch. Tune in Fridays on USA Network or stream it on Prime Video to see why this show is taking the streaming world by storm.
For more on the latest in TV and streaming, check out our coverage of Dark Matter's second season and John Grisham's upcoming legal thriller.
