While fans eagerly await the return of Guy Ritchie's star-studded MobLand, another powerhouse crime series has solidified its place as essential viewing. This City Is Ours, the Liverpool-based thriller starring screen legend Sean Bean, is currently reigning supreme as the number one title on AMC+ in the United States, cementing its status as a streaming phenomenon.
A Second Season on the Horizon
The show's surge in popularity comes as production recently wrapped on its highly anticipated second season. Filming took place across Merseyside and in Spain throughout March, building on the immense success of its debut run. The series, created by Stephen Butchard, launched in March 2025 to staggering numbers, drawing 1.9 million overnight viewers for its premiere. That figure ballooned to 6.6 million for the opening episode's consolidated audience, with the first season maintaining a robust average of 5.8 million viewers per episode.
Given this impressive performance, a renewal was announced just two months after the show's debut. Now, nearly a year later, the series continues to capture audiences, proving its staying power isn't just a flash in the pan. This kind of sustained success on a streaming platform highlights a show that has truly connected with viewers, much like how Aaron Eckhart's 'Thieves Highway' became a surprise hit for Hulu audiences seeking compelling drama.
Critical Acclaim Matches Viewer Passion
The appeal of This City Is Ours isn't limited to viewership numbers. The series has achieved a rare and coveted feat on review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, securing a stellar 93% approval rating from both professional critics and general audiences. This dual acclaim underscores the show's quality and broad appeal. Fans have praised its authentic feel, with one reviewer noting it's "raw, gritty, and everything a Liverpudlian crime drama should be." Another highlighted the "poignant and beautiful" ending, suggesting the series delivers both tension and emotional depth.
At the heart of the story is Ronnie Phelan, a seasoned crime boss portrayed by Sean Bean, who dreams of retiring after one final, major score. His plan triggers a violent and complex power struggle between his loyal lieutenant, Michael Kavanagh, and his own reckless son, Jamie. This familial conflict set against the backdrop of Liverpool's criminal underworld provides a rich, character-driven narrative that has clearly resonated.
The Perfect Fix for Crime Drama Enthusiasts
For viewers who devour intricate crime sagas, This City Is Ours offers a perfect blend of tough performances, sharp writing, and a powerfully realized setting. Sean Bean leads a formidable cast including James Nelson-Joyce, Hannah Onslow, and Saoirse-Monica Jackson. The show's success demonstrates a strong appetite for well-crafted, location-specific crime stories that go beyond simple action, focusing on the human cost of criminal life.
Its rise on AMC+ mirrors other unexpected streaming victories in 2026, such as 'The Serpent Queen' finding new life as a streaming hit or Liam Neeson's 'Naked Gun' reboot becoming a Paramount+ sensation. It shows that when a series strikes the right chord, audiences will find it and fuel its success, regardless of the platform.
With Season 2 in the can and its popularity on AMC+ soaring, This City Is Ours has firmly established itself as a cornerstone of contemporary crime television. For fans waiting for the next season of MobLand or anyone seeking a gripping, critically adored drama, this Sean Bean-led series is undoubtedly your next must-watch obsession.
