Netflix's Wayward gets huge viewership spike as Mae Martin addresses season 2 hopes
The hit Netflix series created by and starring Mae Martin, has just seen one of the biggest viewership spikes in the streaming platform's history
Netflix's gripping new thriller series Wayward might be edging closer to securing a second season following a massive surge in audience numbers.
The captivating cult drama, both created by and featuring Mae Martin, follows the lead performer as police officer Alex Dempsey, who relocates to the apparently perfect small town of Tall Pines alongside his expectant wife, Laura (portrayed by Sarah Gadon).
Before they've even properly moved in, Alex begins noticing warning signs from local school leader Evelyn Wade (Toni Collette), who appears to be at the heart of a sinister mystery hidden within the community.
The first season, which dropped on Netflix in late September, wrapped up with an unclear ending that left Alex and Laura's destiny hanging in the balance.
Fortunately, it's also turned out to be a surprise success for the streaming giant, allegedly producing one of the most significant viewership jumps in Netflix history last week, as reported by Variety, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Their coverage states Wayward experienced an extraordinary rise of 3,537% from the preceding week, a definite indication the show is drawing in increasingly more viewers daily.
Additionally, remarks from Martin appear to hint that the season finale, which ended with troubled teenager Abbie (Sydney Topliffe) departing from Tall Pines, isn't the conclusion of the story.
During a conversation with TV Insider, the performer and creator commented: "Hopefully [everything is] tied up enough that it's satisfying to watch as a series."
However, they also hinted: "I was told it was a miniseries, but there's definitely more story to tell, I think. We left all those characters in crisis, basically."
Collette, whose character Evelyn was left catatonic at the end of season one, agreed, saying the series is "endlessly intriguing" and there are "so many places it could go, for sure".
Alyvia Alyn Lind, the actress behind Leila, who chose to stay in Tall Pines, confirmed in a Decider interview that she "would love to come back", noting the cast is "ready".
Martin didn't discuss any plans for Wayward season two in their recent interview with Deadline, but certainly showed enthusiasm for the role of Alex that could suggest they'll be eager to return for more.
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"I have perpetual imposter syndrome about acting, but I really fell in love with it making this show and getting to work with Toni Collette, Sarah Gadon and the cast," they remembered.
"I gave myself licence to really go for it. It was really fun to get out some aggression and to play that character with all his flaws."
Have you already binged Wayward or are you waiting for the perfect moment to begin this gripping cult mystery in the lead-up to Halloween?
Wayward is available to stream on Netflix.