Netflix Viewers Are Binge-Watching Kevin Bacon’s Dark Crime Thriller Until 6AM — And Some Can’t Stop Watching

A crime thriller that ended nearly a decade ago is drawing fresh attention from Netflix viewers, with some admitting they have stayed awake until the early hours because they could not bring themselves to stop watching. The series is The Following, the psychological thriller starring Kevin Bacon that originally aired on Fox from 2013 to 2015.

The show has resurfaced in online recommendations, where viewers have been sharing their experiences of watching episode after episode. One fan even rated it 10/10 after admitting they had to force themselves to go to bed at 6am.

The renewed interest began after a TikTok user named Robert asked people to recommend a Netflix series so gripping that it would keep him watching until 3am. The post quickly attracted suggestions, with The Following among the titles viewers singled out.

One recommendation came with a particularly enthusiastic endorsement: “The Following, had to make myself go to bed at 6am could not stop watching! A 10/10.”

Others also suggested the series, although not everyone was equally satisfied with its conclusion. One viewer agreed that it was worth watching but said the ending left them disappointed.

The mixed reactions highlight the show’s appeal and its potential to divide viewers. Its disturbing premise and escalating suspense have kept some fans glued to the screen, even as opinions differ over how successfully the story wraps up.

What Is The Following About?

Created by Kevin Williamson, The Following is an American psychological crime thriller that ran for three seasons between 2013 and 2015. During its run, the series received three awards and 14 nominations.

The story centres on Ryan Hardy, a former FBI agent played by Kevin Bacon, who is drawn back into a dangerous case when notorious serial killer Joe Carroll, portrayed by James Purefoy, escapes from prison.

Hardy soon discovers that Carroll is far more dangerous than a lone murderer. During his time as a teacher and while behind bars, Carroll built a network of devoted followers who share his disturbing interests. Together, they form a cult of killers willing to commit violent crimes in pursuit of his plans.

One of Carroll’s closest allies is Emma Hill, played by Valorie Curry, who becomes a key figure in his growing network.

The threat intensifies when Carroll’s son, Joey Matthews, portrayed by Kyle Catlett, is kidnapped by members of the group. As Hardy and his FBI colleagues investigate, they uncover the wider scheme behind the abduction.

Carroll’s ambitions extend beyond escaping custody. He also wants to reunite with his former wife, Claire Matthews, played by Natalie Zea, while continuing to manipulate Hardy and those around him.

What begins as a manhunt develops into a broader investigation into a dangerous network whose members can carry out Carroll’s orders even when he is nowhere near the crime scene.

Across its three-season run, The Following builds tension around Hardy’s attempts to predict Carroll’s next move while confronting the killer’s growing influence.

The investigation becomes increasingly complicated as the FBI tries to understand the cult, track down its members and prevent further violence. Carroll’s ability to manipulate others turns the pursuit into a psychological battle as much as a conventional criminal investigation.

The series also explores the consequences of Hardy’s past encounters with Carroll, making their rivalry central to the unfolding drama.

Its cast includes Shawn Ashmore as FBI agent Mike Weston, alongside Jessica Stroup, Annie Parisse and other performers who help bring the investigation and its surrounding network of characters to life.

Although the show concluded in 2015, its dark premise continues to attract viewers searching for a crime thriller with a disturbing central mystery.

Where Can You Watch The Following?

According to the original report, The Following is available to stream on Netflix with a subscription. UK viewers can also check Channel 5, where the series has been offered free with advertising, while Amazon Prime provides another option for streaming.

For those who prefer to purchase rather than stream, individual episodes reportedly start at £2.49, while complete seasons start at £19.99. Digital downloads and box sets have also been available through the Apple TV Store and Sky Store.

Availability and prices can change, so viewers should check each service’s current catalogue before deciding where to watch.

With three seasons to explore, The Following offers plenty of material for anyone looking for a suspense-filled crime drama. The reactions from fans suggest that its combination of a relentless FBI investigation, a manipulative serial killer and a network of dangerous followers can make it difficult to stop after just one episode.

If you decide to start watching late at night, you might want to leave yourself enough time for more than one instalment.