Netflix has a knack for resurrecting shows that other networks have left behind, and its latest acquisition is set to give crime drama fans a new obsession. The streaming giant has struck a licensing deal with 20th Century Television to bring all four seasons of Will Trent to its platform worldwide, starting November 3, 2026. The move comes as a perfect consolation for viewers still mourning the end of The Lincoln Lawyer, which wrapped after its fifth season earlier this year.
Will Trent, based on Karin Slaughter's bestselling novels, has been a steady performer on ABC since its debut. The series follows Special Agent Will Trent of the Georgia Bureau of Investigations, a man shaped by a traumatic childhood in Atlanta's foster care system. Now, as an adult, he uses his unique perspective to solve cases with an unmatched clearance rate, determined to ensure no one else is left behind like he was.
The show boasts a talented ensemble cast, led by Ramon Rodriguez in the title role, with Erika Christensen, Iantha Richardson, and Jake McLaughlin rounding out the core team. Created for television by Liz Heldens and Daniel T. Thomsen, the series has earned a solid 75% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, proving its appeal to both critics and viewers.
For Netflix, this isn't just another library pickup. The platform has a history of breathing new life into overlooked series, much like it did with The Last Ship, which became a global hit after arriving on the service. Similarly, Will Trent is expected to find a fresh audience among the streamer's 300 million subscribers, especially those who have been craving a new procedural drama with a compelling lead.
The timing is strategic: with Season 5 of Will Trent set to premiere on ABC in early 2027, Netflix viewers will have the entire back catalog to binge before the new episodes drop. It's a smart move for both networks, giving fans a chance to catch up and building anticipation for the upcoming season.
This acquisition also fills a void left by The Lincoln Lawyer, which concluded its run on Netflix in 2026. While that show was based on Michael Connelly's novels, Will Trent offers a similar blend of legal and investigative drama, but with a grittier, more character-driven edge. For those who loved the courtroom battles and moral dilemmas of The Lincoln Lawyer, Will Trent promises a different kind of intensity, rooted in the personal journey of its protagonist.
Netflix has been on a roll with licensing deals this year, from bringing the Jason Bourne films to the platform to adding a slew of classic movies to its October lineup. The addition of Will Trent is another feather in its cap, reinforcing the streamer's commitment to offering a diverse mix of original and acquired content.
For fans of the show, this news is a welcome surprise. Will Trent has been a reliable source of gripping storytelling, and now it's about to reach a global audience. Whether you're a longtime viewer or new to the series, mark your calendars for November 3, 2026, when all four seasons land on Netflix. And if you're still missing The Lincoln Lawyer, this might just be the perfect replacement to fill that void.
Stay tuned for more updates on Will Trent and other streaming news as we approach the release date.
