Landman beats Squid Game and Virgin River; tops first streaming chart in 2025: Reports

While the South Korean sensation Squid Game Season 2 shattered viewership records, it was ultimately Landman on Paramount+ that claimed the crown as the most-watched streaming show from December 30 to January 5.

Netflix dropped Squid Game Season 2 on December 26, closing the year with a gripping blend of suspense and violence.

Netflix timed the release of Squid Game Season 2 perfectly, tapping into post-Christmas downtime. Fans eagerly dove back into the intense world of deadly games, leading to record-breaking numbers in its opening days. The holiday season gave viewers plenty of time to binge-watch.

Season 1 of Squid Game also made a strong comeback, landing in ninth place on the charts. It’s a testament to the show’s staying power that even three years later, it’s still pulling in new and returning fans.

Despite Squid Game’s dominance, it was Paramount+’s Landman that claimed the top spot for the week. The show, created by the genius behind Yellowstone, Taylor Sheridan, struck a chord with viewers, proving that compelling storytelling can steal the spotlight from even the biggest hits.

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Other Netflix's top performers

Netflix didn’t just rely on Squid Game to dominate the charts. Five other titles made it to the Top 10, showcasing the platform’s range and ability to appeal to diverse audiences.

Missing You

This mystery thriller about a detective searching for answers after her fiancé reappears on a dating app over a decade after disappearing grabbed viewers’ attention with its unique premise.

Carry On

A Christmas-travel-themed thriller, Carry On brought just the right mix of suspense and holiday charm to keep audiences hooked.

Virgin River: Season 6

Fans of this long-running drama flocked to the latest season, released just before the holidays. The series has consistently delivered heartfelt stories, and this season was no different.

The Six Triple Eight

Written and directed by Tyler Perry, this film tells the incredible true story of an all-Black, all-female battalion that overcame immense challenges during World War II. Its historical significance resonated with viewers.

Dune: Part Two

Returning to the charts after months, Dune: Part Two proved its blockbuster appeal once again as it hit Netflix’s library.

Streaming success wasn’t confined to Netflix and Paramount+. Amazon Prime Video’s Beast Games, helmed by YouTube sensation Mr. Beast, became a major holiday hit with its massive budget and high-stakes competition.

Wicked’s Holiday Surge

The VOD release of Wicked gave it a significant boost. Despite still being in theaters, many chose the comfort of their homes to enjoy this magical blockbuster.

On traditional TV, networks battled it out with New Year’s Eve specials. ABC’s “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest” took the top spot, while CBS and CNN followed closely behind with their festive broadcasts.

So, why did Landman win the week?

Timing and genre likely played a role. While Squid Game offers intense, sometimes overwhelming suspense, Landman’s grounded storytelling provides a refreshing alternative for viewers heading into the new year.

Sheridan has built a reputation for delivering grounded, character-driven dramas, and Landman is no exception. Its relatable themes and gripping plot made it a must-watch, securing its place as the most-streamed show to kick off 2025.

The first streaming chart of 2025 highlights how varied audience preferences have become. From heart-pounding thrillers like Squid Game to relatable dramas like Landman, there’s truly something for everyone in the streaming world.

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