Netflix subscribers will have to say goodbye to the critically acclaimed supernatural drama ‘Evil’ as all three seasons prepare to leave the streaming platform on December 31, 2025. The departure also confirms that the show’s fourth and final season will not be making its way to Netflix.
The supernatural thriller, which originally aired on CBS before transitioning to Paramount+, has found a dedicated following on Netflix despite its complex streaming journey. Created by the talented duo Robert and Michelle King, ‘Evil’ masterfully blends psychological drama with supernatural elements, creating a viewing experience that has captivated audiences across multiple platforms.
A Stellar Cast Investigating the Unexplained
The series showcases an exceptional ensemble led by Katja Herbers, Mike Colter, and Aasif Mandvi. This unlikely trio forms the heart of the show as they investigate alleged miracles, hauntings, and demonic phenomena. Herbers delivers a compelling performance as Kristen Bouchard, a forensic psychologist who approaches mysteries through the lens of science and logic.
Colter brings depth to his role as David Acosta, a priest-in-training whose investigations are guided by faith and spiritual conviction. Meanwhile, Mandvi provides the perfect counterbalance as Ben Shakir, the tech-savvy contractor who approaches supernatural claims with healthy skepticism, often uncovering the technological explanations behind seemingly inexplicable events.
The show’s antagonist, Leland Townsend, portrayed with chilling precision by Michael Emerson, has become one of television’s most unsettling villains. Emerson’s portrayal of the manipulative psychologist who seems to derive pleasure from corrupting others has earned widespread critical acclaim.
A Complex Streaming History
This marks the second time ‘Evil’ will be departing Netflix, highlighting the increasingly complex nature of streaming rights in today’s entertainment landscape. The series first arrived on Netflix in October 2020 as part of an experimental partnership between the streaming giant and CBS. This collaboration aimed to boost broadcast ratings by making select CBS content available on Netflix for limited periods.
The first season’s initial Netflix run lasted exactly one year before being removed in 2021. Following this departure, the series found its permanent home on Paramount+, which served as the exclusive streaming destination for seasons two through four until August 2024.
Netflix managed to reacquire the rights to seasons one and two in April 2024, with the third season joining the platform in December of the same year.
Hope for Revival Falls Short
Following the series’ return to Netflix, cast members and production crew expressed optimism about a potential revival. Many hoped that ‘Evil’ might experience a phenomenon similar to ‘Manifest,’ where overwhelming Netflix viewership led to an unexpected season renewal after the show’s initial cancellation.
Unfortunately, the viewing numbers, while respectable, didn’t reach the explosive levels needed for such a revival. According to Netflix Engagement Reports, the series accumulated 14.3 million views between early 2024 and June 2025. The first season peaked as the 664th most popular title on Netflix during the first half of 2024.
Viewership Breakdown by Season
The viewing data reveals interesting patterns in audience engagement across the different seasons:
- Season 1: 6.8 million total views, with strongest performance in early 2024
- Season 2: 5.4 million total views, showing consistent audience retention
- Season 3: 2.1 million total views, reflecting its later addition to the platform
While these numbers represent solid performance for a US-only release, they fell short of the astronomical figures that convinced Netflix to revive ‘Manifest.’
Where to Continue Watching
Fans need not despair about losing access to the series entirely. All four seasons of ‘Evil,’ including the recently concluded final season, remain available on Paramount+. The streaming service has been the show’s primary home since season two and appears committed to maintaining the complete series in its catalog.
Paramount+ offers subscribers the complete ‘Evil’ experience, allowing both newcomers and longtime fans to explore the full narrative arc from beginning to end. This comprehensive availability makes it the ideal destination for those looking to experience the show’s evolution from broadcast television to streaming-exclusive content.
A Bittersweet Farewell
The departure of ‘Evil’ from Netflix represents more than just another title leaving a streaming platform. It symbolizes the end of what could have been a remarkable comeback story. The series, which consistently delivered high-quality storytelling and exceptional performances throughout its four-season run, deserved the kind of widespread recognition that might have led to additional seasons.
As December 31st approaches, Netflix subscribers have a limited window to catch up with this exceptional series. Whether you’re drawn to its supernatural elements, psychological complexity, or simply excellent character development, ‘Evil’ offers a viewing experience that stands apart in today’s crowded television landscape.
The show’s departure also serves as a reminder of the fluid nature of streaming content, where beloved series can appear and disappear based on licensing agreements and corporate strategies rather than artistic merit or fan devotion.
