Inside Wayward: Netflix’s hit thriller unravels dark secrets

What secrets lie beneath the seemingly perfect town of Tall Pines? Netflix’s latest sensation, Wayward, has stormed the charts, quickly rising to the top three most-watched shows in the US. The show plunges viewers into the chilling world of Tall Pines Academy — a reform school for troubled teens where dark secrets and sinister practices hide behind a veneer of rehabilitation.

Created by Mae Martin and starring Toni Collette, Wayward marks a bold tonal shift, blending horror, mystery, and psychological drama into a gripping narrative. Here is everything you need to know about Wayward – from the plot and cast to reviews and release date. The trailer is at the bottom of the article.
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Wayward – All the key details

What Wayward is about

The quiet town of Tall Pines hides a secret: Tall Pines Academy. On the surface, it appears to be a safe haven for troubled teens. However, beneath this facade lies a web of dark secrets and manipulative practices. The story follows Alex Dempsey, a transgender police officer who moves to Tall Pines with his pregnant wife, Laura, a former student of the academy.

Soon after their arrival, unsettling events begin to unfold. For instance, a student named Riley escapes and reveals disturbing truths about the school. As Alex digs deeper, he uncovers a network of control orchestrated by the enigmatic headmistress, Evelyn Wade (Toni Collette). At the same time, two students, Leila and Abbie, struggle to survive the academy’s oppressive environment. Along the way, they form a bond that helps them confront the hidden horrors around them.

Wayward cast: the main characters

Mae Martin leads the cast as Alex Dempsey, a police officer confronting both personal and professional challenges. Toni Collette delivers a chilling performance as Evelyn Wade, the academy’s charismatic yet sinister leader. Sarah Gadon portrays Laura Redman, Alex’s wife, whose past at the academy resurfaces, complicating their present. Alyvia Alyn Lind and Sydney Topliffe shine as Leila and Abbie, respectively, capturing the vulnerability and resilience of teens trapped in a manipulative system. The supporting cast includes Brandon Jay McLaren, Patrick J. Adams , and Tattiawna Jones.

Is Wayward based on a true story?

Although Wayward is a work of fiction, it is inspired by real-life events in the troubled teen industry. Creator Mae Martin drew from the experiences of a close friend who was sent to a similar institution, endured significant trauma, and eventually escaped. In addition, the series touches on broader issues within the largely unregulated network of youth treatment programs, even incorporating elements from real-life cults like Synanon. Throughout the development of the show, Martin worked closely with their friend to ensure the story remained both authentic and sensitive.

What reviews say about Wayward

Critics have praised Wayward for its gripping performances and tense, atmospheric storytelling. Toni Collette stands out, perfectly capturing her character’s manipulative charm. Mae Martin’s move from comedy to drama has also been well received, with reviewers noting their nuanced portrayal of Alex Dempsey, a character facing both personal and professional challenges. The show’s exploration of systemic abuse, power dynamics, and trauma has struck a chord with audiences, sparking conversations about its real-world relevance.

Where was Wayward filmed?

Wayward was filmed in Ontario, Canada. The choice of location contributed to the show’s eerie atmosphere, with the natural landscapes enhancing the show’s unsettling tone. The production team aimed to create an immersive environment that reflected the fictional town of Tall Pines, utilizing both urban and rural settings to depict the contrasting facets of the community.

When to watchWayward

Available now. Wayward has been streaming on Netflix since September 25, 2025, quickly becoming one of the platform’s most-watched shows with 8.2 million views during its opening weekend. Watch on Netflix.

Watch the trailer

Here’s the trailer to get a first taste.