Netflix’s #2 Show Is Based on a Shocking True Story—And the Reviews Are *Heated*

Netflix isn’t exactly new to the “based on a true story” genre. From Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story to Unknown Caller: The High School Catfish and Terror Comes Knocking, the streamer knows its audience loves a real-life twist. The latest to join that lineup? Wayward and it's already making waves as the #2 show on the platform.

The eight-episode limited series, which premiered on September 25, comes from the mind of Mae Martin, who also stars alongside Toni Collette, Sarah Gadon and Suits alum Patrick J. Adams. Set in the seemingly idyllic town of Tall Pines, Wayward dives deep into the unsettling secrets hiding behind its pristine facade.

Still, the show isn’t winning everyone over. While critics on Rotten Tomatoes are mostly into it (sitting at nearly 80%), the audience score tells a different story at a lukewarm 47%. Reddit threads echo the divide, with some calling it a “wasted lifetime,” and others defending it as a “lazy Sunday binge.”

One thing most people agree on, though? Toni Collette absolutely kills it.

Wayward is streaming now on Netflix.

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