Netflix’s Second Highest-Rated Show Is Inspired by a Shocking True Event

Netflix has been hitting it out of the park with their true story-based shows lately, and the latest addition to their lineup is no exception. “Wayward” is making waves as the #2 show on the platform, and viewers are diving into its eight-episode limited series with gusto.

Created by Mae Martin, who also stars in the show alongside Toni Collette, Sarah Gadon, and Patrick J. Adams, “Wayward” takes us into the seemingly perfect town of Tall Pines, where dark secrets lurk beneath the surface. When police officer Alex Dempsey (played by Martin) and his pregnant wife Laura (Gadon) move to town, they quickly realize that things are not as they seem. As Dempsey gets involved with two students from a local reform school, it becomes clear that there’s more to this town than meets the eye – especially when mysterious leader Evelyn (portrayed by Collette) enters the picture.

But here’s the twist: “Wayward” is based on a very personal experience for Martin. Reflecting on their own teenage years in the early 2000s, Martin shared that their best friend was sent to a troubled teen institute at 16, returning with wild stories that sparked Martin’s curiosity. This personal connection led Martin down a path of researching the troubled teen industry and ultimately inspired the creation of “Wayward.”

While critics on Rotten Tomatoes are mostly on board with the show, holding it at an impressive rating of nearly 80%, audience reviews tell a different story with a lukewarm score of 47%. Reddit threads are divided too, with some viewers calling it a waste of time while others see it as the perfect lazy Sunday binge. But one thing everyone seems to agree on is that Toni Collette’s performance is top-notch.

Ready to dive into the world of “Wayward”? The show is currently streaming on Netflix, so grab your popcorn and settle in for a thrilling ride.