In a major win for British streaming audiences, Netflix UK has re-added all eight seasons of the critically acclaimed television thriller Homeland. The entire series, which originally aired from 2011 to 2020, became available again on the platform this November.
A Gripping Conspiracy and a Complex Hero
The show stars Claire Danes as Carrie Mathison, a brilliant but volatile CIA officer. The plot kicks into high gear when she becomes convinced that Damian Lewis's character, a highly decorated Marine Corps sniper rescued from enemy captivity, has been turned by al-Qaeda and now poses a grave threat to the United States.
Beyond the central conspiracy, the series is widely praised for its nuanced portrayal of Mathison's journey as she navigates her career while living with bipolar disorder. This added layer of character depth made the show a standout in the thriller genre.
Unified Critical and Fan Acclaim
The reception for Homeland has been overwhelmingly positive on both sides of the critical divide. The series holds an impressive 85% fresh score on Rotten Tomatoes, a rare consensus between professional reviewers and the viewing public.
Critics have been effusive in their praise. The Independent described Danes's Carrie Mathison as one of television’s all-time greats, while the Daily Telegraph celebrated her as a truly complex character. The conclusion of the series was singled out for particular acclaim, with TV Guide calling it a satisfying payoff and Entertainment Voice dubbing it a worthy final chapter.
Viewers Hail a 'Perfect' Finale
The enthusiasm from fans is equally powerful. On platforms like IMDb, viewers have lauded the show's emotional impact and stellar performances. One user, stoplisteningtothestatic, called Danes's work one of the best performances in entertainment history.
Another fan, ar-nerd, noted how the show takes you on a ride through a whole range of emotions from elation to despair. The ending, however, is what has cemented the show's legacy for many. Fan RealRosoy encapsulated the general sentiment, declaring it the best ending ever and stating, the ending of that was just PERFECT!
Reflecting on her time with the character, Claire Danes told The Guardian, I loved her. It was just so nice to play the smartest person in the room, somebody who was so daring and unapologetically ambitious. Her emotional final scene with co-star Mandy Patinkin marked the poignant end of an era.
For those missing Danes on their screens, she can currently be seen in the new Netflix series The Beast In Me, which has also garnered positive viewer feedback.
All eight seasons of Homeland are available to stream on Netflix UK now.
