‘The Witness’: Netflix’s Latest Crime Thriller Secures Perfect RT Score and Global Hit Status

Published 06/07/2026, 6:24 PM CDT

Credits: Rachel Nickell/ @InSessionFilm via X/ Production - STV Studios/ Distribution - Netflix

Netflix never seems to miss the beat when it comes to true crime dramas. The streamer and its grip on the genre are always up to the task, with a proven track record which includes shows like Ozark, Mindhunter, Untamed, and Black Rabbit. Now, another name joins this esteemed list - The Witness, a three-part British limited series, is based on a true story. It has not only dominated the Netflix streaming charts but also the Rotten Tomatoes ratings.

The new Netflix true crime thriller has scored a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, making for an epic debut.

The Witness achieves a perfect Rotten Tomatoes score

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Critics have given Netflix's new miniseries The Witness positive early reviews, complimenting both the actors and the emotional narrative. The Witness has an uncommon 100% rating from reviewers on Rotten Tomatoes. This number indicates the high caliber of the show, even if it is based on just 8 reviews and may vary when more are added.

It has also climbed to the top ranks of the Netflix charts. After launching on Netflix on June 4, The Witness has now ascended to become the second most popular TV show on the platform in the U.S., as of writing. The Netflix Original surpasses other series, such as The Four Seasons; Instadocs: Alex Murdaugh, Unconvicted; Lawmen: Bass Reeves, and The Buroughs. The only series currently surpassing it in the top 10 chart is Michael Jackson: The Verdict.

The Witness' placement in the Netflix top 10 charts so soon after its debut is not particularly shocking. The show's ability to maintain this performance over the upcoming weeks and months will be more telling, and there is cause for optimism. Crime shows typically perform well on the streamer, especially those that are based on actual incidents.

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Since The Witness has gained such prominence on its debut, it will be obvious that people want to know more about the show.

The real story behind The Witness

The Witness, which debuted on June 4, chronicles Rachel Nickell's murder in 1992 and the challenging years that followed for her husband, André Hanscombe, and their son Alex. In 1992, Nickell was brutally killed on Wimbledon Common. Alex, who was around three years old at the time of the murder, was the only one who saw his mother being attacked.

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Rob Williams developed, wrote, and executive produced the play, which is based on Alex Hanscombe's memoir Letting Go. Both André and the real Alex were consultants on the show. The decision totally worked out in the show’s favor as reflected by the 100% Rotten Tomatoes score.

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Would you watch The Witness on Netflix? Do let us know.

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Harshit Kumar

416 articles

With nearly two years of experience in content writing, primarily in sports, Harshit has now ventured into the alluring alleys of Hollywood at NetflixJunkie. A true pop-culture fanatic and a certified cheat code for movie trivia night, he brings infectious enthusiasm to every conversation. He has strong opinions about everything from uplifting superhero spectacles to gripping psychological crime dramas, and he is never shy about backing them up.

Edited By: Hriddhi Maitra

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