The most successful Netflix series ever, based on cumulative hours watched, is Squid Game.
Netflix defines the success of its original programming through various metrics, with total hours watched being a significant indicator of global engagement and popularity. This metric typically tracks how many hours subscribers spend viewing a series, either within a specific timeframe (such as the first 28 days of release) or cumulatively over time, demonstrating widespread appeal and replay value.
Top Netflix Original Series by Hours Watched
As of recent data focusing on global viewership, the South Korean survival drama Squid Game stands out with the highest number of hours watched, firmly establishing its position as Netflix's most-watched series. The top series in terms of viewership hours are:
| # | Title | Hours Watched (Millions) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Squid Game | 1,650.45 |
| 2 | Stranger Things | 1,352.09 |
| 3 | Wednesday | 1,237.15 |
| 4 | Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story | 856.22 |
The Global Phenomenon of Squid Game
Squid Game became an unprecedented global sensation shortly after its release, captivating audiences with its unique premise, thrilling narrative, and profound social commentary. Its widespread appeal demonstrated the power of international content to transcend cultural and linguistic barriers, drawing in record-breaking viewership numbers from around the world. The series not only contributed significantly to Netflix's subscriber growth but also sparked numerous conversations and trends across social media and mainstream culture.
Following Squid Game's monumental success, other series have also achieved remarkable viewership milestones. The fourth season of Stranger Things reinforced its status as one of Netflix's flagship productions, generating immense anticipation and strong viewership figures. Similarly, Wednesday, a supernatural comedy series, quickly garnered a massive following, especially among younger demographics, showcasing the enduring appeal of reimagined classic characters. These series highlight the diverse range of content that resonates deeply with Netflix's global audience, contributing to the platform's list of most-watched Netflix original programming.
