Critically Acclaimed Crime Drama 'Animal Kingdom' Now Free to Stream in UK
A phenomenal crime drama that has been hailed as an absolute masterpiece and even compared favorably to iconic series like The Sopranos is currently available for free streaming in the United Kingdom. The TNT original series Animal Kingdom, which originally debuted in 2016, has garnered a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim for its intense storytelling and complex characters.
Plot and Premise of the Gang Drama
The series revolves around seventeen-year-old Josh J Cody, who moves in with his estranged relatives in Southern California following the tragic death of his mother. He quickly discovers that his new family is far from ordinary; they are a dysfunctional crime family led by his ruthless grandmother Janine Smurf Cody and her violent sons. This gripping narrative explores themes of loyalty, power, and survival within a criminal underworld, captivating audiences with its raw and unfiltered portrayal of organized crime.
Streaming Availability and Recent Popularity Surge
Originally airing on TNT from 2016 to 2022, Animal Kingdom concluded after six successful seasons. Earlier this month, the entire series was added to Netflix, where it spent several weeks in the top ten most-watched shows, introducing the drama to a new legion of fans. Now, there is an additional way to stream all episodes without any cost.
All six seasons of Animal Kingdom are currently available for free on the UKTV streaming service U, formerly known as UKTV Play. Similar to platforms like BBC iPlayer and ITVX, U does not require a paid subscription; however, viewers must register for a free account using an email address to access the content. This move makes the acclaimed series more accessible to a wider audience in the UK.
Fan Reactions and Critical Comparisons
For years, fans and critics have passionately praised Animal Kingdom, often likening it to some of the greatest television shows in history. Enthusiastic viewers have described it as one of the best shows ever created, with many asserting it surpasses even legendary series like The Sopranos, Peaky Blinders, and Breaking Bad.
One fan exclaimed, I absolutely loved Animal Kingdom as it has quickly become one of my all-time favorite shows! Another echoed this sentiment, stating, It's not only one of the best shows currently on TV but it's also just flat out one of the best shows ever created! A third viewer added, Without a doubt, this series is the best TV series about organized crime to date, even better than The Sopranos. These testimonials highlight the show's impact and enduring appeal.
Notable Cast Members and Performances
The series features a talented ensemble cast that brings the gritty world of Animal Kingdom to life. Finn Cole, known for his role as Michael Gray in Peaky Blinders, portrays the young leading man J Cody. He is joined by acclaimed actors such as Ellen Barkin from Ocean's Thirteen, Jake Weary of The Waterfront, Shawn Hatosy from The Pitt, and Ben Robson of Vikings. Their performances have been widely praised for adding depth and intensity to the show's narrative.
As one user summarized, It is absolutely a masterpiece - it keeps you wanting to watch more and more and keeps you on the edge of your seat. 5 stars. With its compelling plot, stellar cast, and newfound accessibility, Animal Kingdom continues to solidify its reputation as a must-watch crime drama for streaming enthusiasts.
