It's been a whirlwind few weeks for fans of ABC's hit crime drama Will Trent. The show, which wrapped its fourth season in May, has just made a massive splash on Netflix, joining the streamer's global Top 10 with an impressive 1.9 million views and 18.2 million hours watched in its first week. That's a huge win for a series that's already proven its staying power on network TV.
Based on Karin Slaughter's bestselling novels, Will Trent stars Ramón Rodríguez as the titular special agent, a character known for his sharp instincts and unconventional methods. The show premiered on ABC in January 2023 to strong ratings and critical acclaim, earning an 89% Tomatometer score and an 82% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. Its first season averaged nearly 6 million viewers per episode, a solid performance for a late-night slot.
Now, all four seasons are available on Netflix as part of a broader Disney licensing deal that also brought Percy Jackson and the Ice Age franchise to the platform in October. The deal is set to bring more titles to Netflix in the coming months, including Shifting Gears and Tracker, but it's Will Trent that's currently stealing the spotlight.
The timing couldn't be better. Just days after the show hit Netflix, ABC announced that Will Trent Season 5 would premiere on January 5, 2027, at 8 p.m. ET. That announcement, combined with the streaming debut, seems to have sparked a surge in viewership, with the show dominating in countries like Australia, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Sweden, the U.K., and the U.S.
Fans are eagerly awaiting the return of the core cast, including Rodríguez, Erika Christensen as Angie Polaski, Jake McLaughlin as Michael Ormewood, Iantha Richardson as Faith Mitchell, and Kevin Daniels as Franklin Wilks. Of course, no one can forget Betty, the adorable dog who steals every scene. There's also speculation about a new permanent character taking over as Deputy Director of the GBI, following the shocking death of Amanda Wagner in Season 4. Could she reappear in flashbacks or as a ghostly presence? Only time will tell.
For those who haven't yet jumped on the Will Trent bandwagon, now's the perfect time to catch up. All four seasons are streaming on Netflix, and with Season 5 just around the corner, there's no better way to prepare. And if you're looking for more binge-worthy shows, check out our weekend binge guide for other picks.
The show's success on Netflix is a testament to its quality and its ability to attract new viewers even after four seasons. It's also a sign that the streaming landscape is shifting, with network shows finding new life on platforms like Netflix. As Will Trent continues to climb the charts, it's clear that this is one procedural that's here to stay.
With Season 5 on the horizon, the anticipation is building. Will Trent's journey is far from over, and fans can't wait to see what's next. Whether you're a longtime viewer or a newcomer, there's no denying the show's appeal. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and get ready for a binge-watching session that's sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
