Rami Malek has come a long way since his early days as a guest star on shows like Gilmore Girls and Medium. The Oscar-winning actor, who shot to fame with Bohemian Rhapsody, has since headlined major films such as No Time to Die and The Amateur. But before all that, he delivered a career-defining performance in a TV series that continues to resonate with audiences nearly a decade after its finale.
That show is Mr. Robot, the USA Network cyber-thriller that ran from 2015 to 2019. Malek played Elliot Alderson, a brilliant but troubled cybersecurity engineer who gets drawn into a world of hacktivism and corporate conspiracy. The series earned widespread critical acclaim, boasting a 94% critic score and a 93% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. Now, in September 2026, the show is making waves again on streaming platforms.
According to FlixPatrol, Mr. Robot has surged up the iTunes global charts, peaking at number 13. The spike in viewership is particularly strong in the U.S., UK, Germany, and France. This renewed interest likely stems from the fact that the series isn't currently available on major subscription streaming services, prompting fans to turn to digital retailers like iTunes to get their fix. It's a testament to the show's enduring appeal that people are still discovering or revisiting Elliot's story.
Malek's portrayal of Elliot was a masterclass in acting, earning him an Emmy and a Golden Globe. The character's hoodie-clad, socially awkward demeanor became iconic, and the show's exploration of mental health, technology, and morality remains relevant today. For those who haven't seen it, Mr. Robot is a must-watch, and it's currently streaming on Tubi in the U.S. for free.
While Mr. Robot enjoys its streaming resurgence, Malek is earning fresh accolades for his latest film, The Man I Love. Directed by Ira Sachs, the drama is set in the 1980s during the AIDS crisis. Malek plays Jimmy, an artist who, after being diagnosed with the disease, embarks on a poignant final act. The film premiered at the 79th Cannes Film Festival and has received rave reviews, holding a 95% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics have singled out Malek's "unrelenting dedication" to the role, with Collider's Therese Lacson noting that "there's not a moment when you want to look away."
The film also stars Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Tom Sturridge, and Rebecca Hall, and was co-written by Sachs and Mauricio Zacharias. It's a powerful companion piece to Mr. Robot, showcasing Malek's range as an actor.
For fans of thrilling, thought-provoking television, Mr. Robot remains a standout. If you're looking for more gripping sci-fi and thriller content, check out our list of thrillers worth rewatching or explore why Squid Game continues to dominate. And if you're in the mood for another underrated gem, don't miss this spy thriller before it leaves Netflix.
As Mr. Robot climbs the charts, it's clear that Malek's legacy in television is as strong as ever. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, now is the perfect time to dive into the world of Elliot Alderson.
