Netflix viewers are declaring themselves “completely hooked” on the medical drama The Resident, with many admitting they weren’t prepared for the emotional toll of its deeply human storytelling. The long-running series, spanning six seasons and 107 episodes, has found a powerful second life on the streaming platform, quickly climbing watchlists and dominating late-night binges since its addition in late 2025.

Originally airing on Fox from 2018 to 2023, The Resident follows the staff of Chastain Park Memorial Hospital as they navigate life-and-death decisions, corporate greed, and personal demons. Matt Czuchry stars as brilliant but arrogant senior resident Conrad Hawkins, mentoring idealistic intern Devon Pravesh (Manish Dayal) while clashing with hospital bureaucracy. Emily VanCamp shines as nurse practitioner Nic Nevin, Conrad’s love interest, with Bruce Greenwood, Malcolm-Jamal Warner, and Jane Leeves rounding out the core ensemble.

What sets The Resident apart from typical hospital shows is its unflinching blend of high-stakes medicine with raw emotional depth. Episodes tackle real-world issues — opioid crises, for-profit healthcare, medical racism — while delivering heartbreaking patient stories that leave viewers in tears. “I started casually and ended up sobbing at 3am,” one Netflix reviewer wrote. “The characters feel like family by the end.”

The show’s second life on Netflix has been phenomenal. Within weeks of arrival, it surged into the global Top 10, with completion rates rivaling prestige dramas. Fans praise the addictive pacing: “One episode and you’re hooked — six seasons fly by.” Many warn newcomers: “Keep tissues close. It’s not just medicine — it’s life.”

Czuchry’s Conrad evolves from cocky mentor to vulnerable father, while VanCamp’s Nic anchors the heart (her Season 4 storyline remains a tearjerker fans still discuss). Dayal’s Devon grapples with ethics, and Greenwood’s Dr. Bell undergoes one of TV’s best redemption arcs.

Creator Amy Holden Jones crafted a series that balances adrenaline with empathy, earning praise for realism — medical advisors ensured accuracy while avoiding glorification. Critics gave it 88% on Rotten Tomatoes, calling it “smart, emotional television.”

For many, The Resident hits differently in 2026: post-pandemic viewers connect deeply with stories of healthcare workers’ sacrifices. “It makes fiction feel small,” one fan said. “These characters go through hell to save lives — and you feel every bit.”

As binge-watchers race through seasons, the emotional commitment grows. “I wasn’t prepared,” another admitted. “It’s addictive, heartbreaking, and beautiful.”

Now dominating Netflix conversations, The Resident proves some shows only get better with time — an experience that stays with you long after the final heartbeat.

All six seasons available now on Netflix — but proceed with tissues.