February 12, 2026, 4:36 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
“Stranger Things,” “Bridgerton,” or “Squid Game”–the big Netflix series are well-known. And when a new season is released, success is almost guaranteed. Yet, it’s not uncommon for a new title to make it directly into the charts. Such is the case with the new German series “Unfamiliar.”
“Unfamiliar” Even Outshines “Bridgerton”
“Unfamiliar” is a new German-produced spy series that premiered on Netflix on February 5, 2026. With only six episodes, its scope is quite manageable, featuring many well-known stars such as Samuel Finzi, Susanne Wolff, and Henry Hübchen.
Netflix didn’t launch a major advertising campaign. Nevertheless, the thrilling story has started successfully–according to “FlixPatrol,” “Unfamiliar” has even reached number 1 in the charts in 16 countries. This places the series ahead of long-running hits like “Bridgerton,” “Lincoln Lawyer,” or the currently topical documentary “Jeffrey Epstein: Filthy Rich.”
Curiously, although it’s a German series with actors well-known in Germany, “Unfamiliar” hasn’t reached the top of the charts there. Initially, it only made it to fourth place, but that could still change.
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The Secret to “Unfamiliar’s” Success
It seems many initially overlooked “Unfamiliar.” Even though it premiered a week ago, no professional reviews have been posted on Rotten Tomatoes as of February 12, noon. The press apparently didn’t attend any previews (or they weren’t offered).
At least there are initial impressions and, of course, fan reactions. The latter have given 67 percent positive ratings on the platform–a good, but not outstanding, score.
The series caters to the highly popular niche of spy thrillers, which Netflix already represents well with “Black Doves” or “The Night Agent.” Fans of such content who have already watched the other titles will find fresh material to stream in “Unfamiliar.” According to “Collider,” it’s worth it, as it’s described as a “twisty, gripping series” that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats until the end.
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What “Unfamiliar” Is About
Meret (Susanne Wolff) and Simon Schäfer (Felix Kramer) are not only a married couple but were both once active with the BND (German Federal Intelligence Service). Since their time there, they have operated a so-called Safe House to hide those seeking protection. But then a threat from the past reemerges, and suddenly they are dealing with Russian agents, their former employer, and contract killers. As they fight for survival, they must also keep their own relationship a secret.