It is proving a popular addition to the streaming giant’s library
Mayfair Witches season one trailer
Netflix fans are all watching a creepy thriller that’s been described as ‘so bad it’s good’.
The first season of Mayfair Witches has just recently been included as part of the streaming giant’s extensive offering. In just a matter of days, it has become one of the most watched titles among subscribers.
At the time of writing, it is currently seventh in the top 10 series in the UK. It is sandwiched between Hostage and My Life With the Walter Boys. It seems despite a middling 59% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, Netflix viewers just can’t get enough.
There’s also good news for those without a subscription to the platform. That is because all episodes are also available to stream for free on BBC iPlayer.
Based on the series of novels Lives of the Mayfair Witches by Anne Rice, who also wrote Interview With the Vampire, the series follows renowned neurosurgeon Rowan Fielding.
She has developed a serious problem, however. When she gets mad, she kills with her mind.
Across eight episodes, she undergoes a search for answers which leads her to New Orleans, the home of her biological family. Here she discovers she the heir to a family of witches which has been haunted by a sinister presence for generations.
That presence is the spirit Lasher. Ciprien (Sip) Grieve, a devoted agent to the Talamasca, is assigned to protect Rowan.
He soon realises he’s in way over his head as secrets are revealed that could tarnish Rowan’s family and his role in the Talamasca. As Lasher’s seduction of Rowan deepens her role in an ancient prophecy becomes clear. This prophecy culminates in the birth of Lasher.
Rowan is determined to develop powers to fulfil her purpose as a healer, but when tragedy strikes, she must put aside her own desires and fight to save her family. The show features Alexandra Daddario in the lead role, who has previously appeared in True Detective and The White Lotus.
The eight-part first season is described by Netflix as ‘imaginative and suspenseful’, while other critics have dubbed it a ‘creepy thriller’. While one reviewer noted that period drama fans should find something to enjoy just as much as fantasy buffs due to how it moves its story back and forth in time.
While someone else praised the lead star performance and genre bending impact: “Daddario, who was a standout in the first season of HBO’s The White Lotus, makes an appealing lead in the eerie gothic series, which leans on its horror roots.”
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Plenty of fans have also shared their recommendation. One said: “From the first episode, I was hooked—the storytelling unfolds in such an intriguing way, keeping me captivated as each new piece of the mystery falls into place.
“If you’re on the fence about watching because of the reviews—give it a chance. You might just find yourself just as enchanted as I am.”
Another added: “As someone who hasn’t read the novels & loves fantasy that takes hints from real life – I recommend it to all those who might have enjoyed series like Sabrina on Netflix.”
Meanwhile, others have acknowledged the show’s flaws but still give it their approval. One person simply noted: “Mayfair Witches is so bad but so good.” In agreement, another replied: “This is where I’m at. I can’t quit.”
Mayfair Witches is streaming on Netflix and BBC iPlayer.