The Abandons on Netflix: A New Western Series That’s Capturing Global Attention

Introduction: Why The Abandons Matters

The Abandons premiered on Netflix on 4 December 2025, bringing a new American Western action drama to the streaming platform. Created by Sons of Anarchy’s Kurt Sutter, the series features a talented cast led by well-known actresses. The show hit the number two spot on Netflix’s global chart, demonstrating significant viewer interest in Western content as the genre continues to gain popularity on streaming platforms.

The Story and Cast

Set in 1850s Washington, the series follows two families led by powerful matriarchs — one wealthy, one poor but deeply loyal — as they battle for supremacy on the lawless frontier. Gillian Anderson and Lena Headey play two steely matriarchs that face off on the American frontier. Anderson plays iron-willed town leader Constance Van Ness, who is still coming to terms with her husband’s death while trying to control both her family and the local community. Lena Headey portrays Fiona Nolan, an Irish woman who adopts four children after learning she cannot have a child.

Critical Reception and Controversy

The series has generated polarising reviews from critics and audiences alike. Rotten Tomatoes reported a 27% approval rating based on 33 critic reviews, with the consensus noting that whilst the show wields powerful lead performers, the flimsiness of its characters, lack of originality, and ultimately fervorless material makes for a lackluster experience. At its heart, the new Western series is described as a sudsy nighttime soap, which has drawn mixed reactions from viewers expecting a traditional Western drama.

Conclusion: What This Means for Streaming Westerns

Netflix could be willing not to abandon The Abandons after just one season if it can continue to herd subscribers over the coming weeks. Despite critical challenges, the show’s strong global performance suggests there remains substantial appetite for Western content on streaming platforms. Executive producer Christopher Keyser has described the season as the ‘first chapter of The Abandons’, indicating promise that the story will continue. For viewers, The Abandons represents Netflix’s latest attempt to capture the neo-Western audience, offering star power and frontier drama that continues to spark debate about quality versus popularity in streaming entertainment.