Apple TV’s Polarizing 8-Part Mystery Crime Series Is An Instant Streaming Hit

The streaming service’s new drama, Imperfect Women, has grown into an overnight streaming sensation, despite its divisive critical reception. After a woman is murdered, a trio of friends — Mary (Elisabeth Moss), Eleanor (Kerry Washington), and Nancy (Kate Mara) — are tested in their loyalty to each other as the crime drama unearths devastating secrets.

Now, FlixPatrol reports that, one day after its premiere on the platform, Imperfect Women is a streaming hit on Apple TV. According to data from March 19, 2026, the psychological thriller is Number 3 worldwide on the streaming service. This includes Number 1 in eight countries: Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Botswana, Namibia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Swaziland, Uganda, and Zimbabwe.

It’s also placed high in other countries around the world, including Number 2 in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. The show has plenty of draws to it, especially thanks to its lead actors. This marks Moss’ first TV role since The Handmaid’s Tale ended, alongside Washington’s first since her comedy-drama Unprisoned was cancelled in 2024.

However, its success is an antithesis to its critical reception. Reviews for Imperfect Women have been mixed, with the show currently holding a not-so-perfect 53% on Rotten Tomatoes based on 19 reviews as of writing. Critics are split on the show: some praise its twisted narrative, while others found the premise over-dramatic and uninteresting.

As of writing, only the first two episodes of the drama have been released on Apple TV. However, these have been enough to draw a global audience in, enticing with its mystery and familiar central cast. Other Imperfect Women cast members include Joel Kinnaman, Corey Stoll, Wilson Bethel, Keith Carradine, Sandrine Holt, and Leslie Odom Jr.

Even though the series hasn’t earned high marks from all critics, the mixed reception emphasizes how some viewers will enjoy it, while others won’t. Mileage may vary on how the TV show’s central murder mystery appeals to a wider audience. However, the show has, as of writing, proven itself successful despite its critical reception.

With six episodes left before the series comes to a close, Imperfect Women could retain a top spot on Apple TV‘s charts for some time. While it’s competing against a viewership juggernaut in the form of Monarch: Legacy of Monsters, its success provides a good balancing act with a grounded, twist-riddled tale all about murder and subterfuge.

New episodes of Imperfect Women air Wednesdays on Apple TV.