Back in 2019, “Prodigal Son” first hit the airwaves. And it instantly clawed its way onto our “Top 10 Shows of the Year” list. It was dark, twisted, and dangerously addictive. Fast forward seven years to 2026, and the show has finally made its grand debut on Netflix.
If you missed the boat during its original run on Fox, you need to drop everything and fix that mistake immediately. It’s been years since the series was heartbreakingly cancelled after just two seasons. However, the cult following is still holding out hope for a revival. And now that it’s on Netflix, that “save the show” energy is higher than ever.
Family Dinners Are a Nightmare
The series follows Malcolm Bright (played with incredible intensity by Tom Payne of “The Walking Dead”). Malcolm is one of the best criminal profilers in the game. But he’s got a bit of a “daddy issue” situation.
His father is Dr. Martin Whitly, better known worldwide as “The Surgeon.” He’s a notorious serial killer who murdered at least 23 people. Now, Malcolm uses his unique insight into a killer’s mind to help the NYPD solve the city’s most twisted cases.
The catch? To solve these crimes, Malcolm has to visit his father in a high-security psychiatric facility. It sparks a psychological chess match that is as fascinating as it is terrifying.
A Cast That Absolutely Slays
The chemistry in this show is off the charts, thanks to a powerhouse ensemble. Payne is joined by Michael Sheen, Lou Diamond Phillips, Bellamy Young, and Halston Sage.
Why You’ll Be Hooked
“Prodigal Son“ is the perfect cocktail of a procedural crime drama and a disturbing psychological thriller. It’s got the “case of the week” structure that keeps things moving. But the overarching story of the Whitly family’s dark legacy is what will keep you clicking “Next Episode” until 3:00 AM. It’s stylish, witty, and occasionally very, very gross. In short: it’s fantastic.
What’s Next for Tom Payne?
If you binge both seasons and find yourself craving more of Tom Payne’s frantic energy, you’re in luck! He’s diving back into the world of high-octane horror and drama.
Payne is heavily involved in some upcoming genre projects that lean into that same dark grit we loved in “Prodigal Son.” Keep an eye out for his role in the sprawling western epic Horizon: An American Saga, and stay tuned for more news on his return to the horror-thriller space.
Both seasons of “Prodigal Son” are streaming on Netflix right now.
