Netflix’s hit drama, Sweet Magnolias, returned with its fifth season on Thursday. Viewers have been racing through the new ten-part series, with many binge-watching the entire season in just one day.

The heartwarming drama continues to follow the inseparable trio of childhood best friends, Maddie Townsend (JoAnna Garcia Swisher), Dana Sue Sulivan (Brooke Elliott) and Helen Decatur (Heather Headley), as they navigate the complexities of career, romance, and family life in the fictional South Carolina town of Serenity.

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The Magnolias head to New York in season five

This witty and emotional celebration of female friendship is the ultimate comfort watch. If you loved the romantic twists and tight-knit community feel of shows like Virgin River or Firefly Lane, Sweet Magnolias is one to put on your watchlist.

Keep reading to find out what viewers are saying about season five so far…

What’s the verdict from viewers?

Fans are already raving about the new season on social media, with many binge-watching all ten episodes in just one day.

Heaping praise on the drama, one person penned: “Oh my goodness best season ever!!!! Fabulous writing, acting and team work by all! We must get another season to see more of this fabulous town!!” while another hailed the show as “magnificent,” adding: “It just melts my heart”.

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JoAnna Garcia Swisher as Maddie, Brooke Elliott as Dana Sue in Sweet Magnolias

A third viewer called for a sixth season, writing: “I finished season 5. I’m ready for season 6 now please and thank you!!!”

What to expect from Sweet Magnolias season 5

Picking up six months after Maddie lands a new publishing role in New York City, the fifth season sees the trio reunite for a girls’ weekend in the Big Apple.

Elsewhere, Helen prepares for her much-anticipated wedding to Erik, while Dana Sue and Ronnie navigate some marital turbulence.

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Maddie Townsend was offered a job in New York in season four

Showrunner and executive producer Sheryl J. Anderson told Tudum: “We are thrilled to let the Magnolias take Manhattan.

“Not only is this adventure huge fun, it’s also an opportunity to explore the facets of their relationships in a new context. While it’s crucial to have true friends in day-to-day life, it’s priceless to have them supporting you when you leap out of your comfort zone,” she added.

Big change to season five

One big change to the new season is the absence of Carson Rowland, who plays Maddie’s son Ty.

Showrunner Sheryl J. Anderson previously confirmed to US Weekly that Carson opted not to return to the show.

“In his leaving, we wanted to make the best of the situation and look at what happens when people leave the people they love to chase a dream,” Sheryl told the publication.

Sweet Magnolias is available to stream on Netflix now.