A powerful and emotionally charged drama is once again capturing the attention of Netflix subscribers across the UK. The ten-part limited series Maid is being fervently recommended online, with fans describing it as one of the saddest and most essential shows available to stream.
A Story of Resilience and Struggle
Released on Netflix in 2021, Maid features a star-making turn from actor Margaret Qualley. She portrays Alex, a single mother who flees an abusive relationship with her young daughter. To secure a future, Alex takes a job as a housecleaner, battling poverty, unstable housing, and a complex benefits system while clinging to her aspiration of becoming a writer.
The cast includes Nick Robinson as her ex-partner, Sean. The series was created by Molly Smith Metzler, a writer known for work on Shameless and Orange is the New Black. Metzler adapted the show from the memoir by author Stephanie Land, grounding its harrowing narrative in real-world experience.
Critical Acclaim and Audience Adoration
The show was an instant hit, soaring up Netflix's most-watched charts and earning significant critical praise. It received three Primetime Emmy Award nominations, including Outstanding Lead Actress for Qualley, and Writing for Metzler.
On the review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes, Maid holds an impressive 94% score from critics, whose consensus calls it "undeniably powerful." This acclaim is mirrored by viewers, who have recently reignited conversations about the series on social media, particularly those seeking dramas with conclusive and satisfying endings.
What Viewers Are Saying
Fan reactions highlight the show's profound emotional impact. One viewer declared it "one of the saddest things I've watched in a while," while another insisted, "I feel like everyone should watch Maid." Praise has been heaped on Qualley's performance, described as "Emmy-deserving" and "incredible."
Further endorsements call it "the best series I've seen in a LONG time" and a "masterpiece," with particular commendation for its portrayal of a mother-daughter bond. The resurgence in its popularity underscores its lasting resonance with audiences.
Maid is available to stream in full on Netflix. For viewers in the UK, access to Netflix is also available through bundled offers such as Sky Stream, which includes a subscription in its TV plans.
