Netflix is once again stirring the streaming world with a daring new series that has Virgin River fans buzzing. Madam, now streaming in select regions under the Netflix banner,

brings Virgin River heartthrob Martin Henderson into bold new territory — one that’s as emotional as it is provocative. For viewers accustomed to seeing Henderson as

the kind-hearted Jack Sheridan, this new role in Madam showcases a deeper, more conflicted side of the actor’s range.

But Madam isn’t just about star power. It’s a sharp, heartfelt dramedy that redefines what small-town storytelling can be, blending wit, social commentary, and deeply human emotion into something both daring and deeply relatable.

A Story Rooted in Rebellion and Reinvention

At the heart of Madam is Mack Leigh, portrayed with tremendous heart by Rachel Griffiths. Mack is a woman pushed to her limits — betrayed by her husband, buried under a mountain of debt, and struggling to reclaim control of her life. Instead of collapsing under the weight of her circumstances, she does something no one in her conservative coastal town expects: she opens an ethical brothel.

But this isn’t a scandal-driven story about moral decline. It’s a tale about empowerment, agency, and the redefinition of respectability. Mack’s new business operates under strict rules — consent, safety, and fair treatment above all else. Each episode delves into the logistical and emotional chaos of running such a business, balancing humor with heartfelt moments of vulnerability.

Martin Henderson plays Rob, Mack’s unfaithful husband whose affair sets off the chain reaction that propels the series. His portrayal is complex — far from the reliable Jack Sheridan of Virgin River, Rob is flawed, self-absorbed, and human in the most unsettling ways. Henderson’s performance captures the kind of emotional rawness that makes Madam both relatable and unpredictable.

Where and When Madam Premiered

Madam made its debut in New Zealand on the network Three on July 4, 2024, before expanding its reach to Australian audiences via Channel 9 and 9Now on February 4, 2025. Its initial 10-episode season quickly caught attention for its balance of humor and social commentary, establishing itself as one of the most talked-about local productions of the year.

Now, with Netflix bringing the show to an international stage, Madam is reaching new audiences across the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. While it hasn’t yet landed on Netflix Ireland, fans remain hopeful — especially as word-of-mouth spreads about the show’s surprising depth and heart.

What Makes Madam Stand Out

What sets Madam apart from the usual streaming fare is its tone — unapologetically honest, often funny, and always grounded in real emotion. The series captures the pulse of small-town life, with all its quirks, hypocrisies, and heartwarming moments.

While the premise — a woman running a brothel — might sound risqué, Madam approaches the subject with intelligence and sensitivity. It’s not about shock value but about redefining what empowerment means, especially for women rebuilding their lives after loss and betrayal.

The writing, by Shoshana McCallum and Harry McNaughton, strikes a delicate balance between satire and sincerity. It explores consent, labor rights, stigma, and female agency — all through a lens of humor and humanity.

Rachel Griffiths anchors the cast beautifully, infusing Mack with strength and vulnerability. Around her is a vibrant ensemble, including Rima Te Wiata, Ariāna Osborne, Danielle Cormack, and Robbie Magasiva — each character adding color, chaos, and compassion to the story.

Martin Henderson’s Bold Transformation

For Virgin River fans, seeing Martin Henderson in this new role is both surprising and refreshing. As Jack Sheridan, he’s the dependable romantic lead — a man of integrity and quiet strength. In Madam, however, Henderson flips that image on its head.

His character Rob is the spark that ignites the story’s central conflict — the man whose betrayal forces Mack to reclaim her life. Henderson’s performance dives into a messier emotional terrain, showing audiences a more volatile, vulnerable, and flawed side.

Critics have praised his work for its layered complexity. One reviewer called it “a revelation for fans who only know him as the steadfast bar owner of Virgin River,” noting that Madam allows Henderson to explore “the emotional contradictions of guilt, love, and ego with startling honesty.”

For longtime fans, it’s a must-watch — not just for the performance, but for the fascinating contrast it creates with his Netflix persona in Virgin River.

How Madam Has Been Received

Early reception in New Zealand and Australia has been overwhelmingly positive. Viewers have praised the show’s grounded humor, authentic small-town atmosphere, and thought-provoking storytelling. Critics particularly highlighted its half-hour format, which keeps each episode tight, engaging, and emotionally focused.

Some noted tonal swings — shifting quickly from comedy to heartbreak — but most agreed that this unpredictability was part of its charm. The result? A series that feels alive, authentic, and full of surprises.

Fans also commended the show for its courage in addressing topics like consent, stigma, and personal freedom without preaching or romanticizing them. Instead, Madam uses humor to open conversations that are often left unspoken.

Where to Watch Madam on Netflix

As of October 2025, Madam is available to stream on:

• Netflix UK – Added October 1, 2025
• Netflix Australia – Also available on 9Now for free streaming
• Netflix New Zealand – Promoted via @netflixanz social media

The series consists of 10 episodes, each around 30 minutes long — perfect for weekend bingeing.

At press time, there’s no confirmation of a Netflix Ireland release, but given the show’s growing popularity, an expansion seems likely.

Will There Be a Season 2?

As of October 9, 2025, Madam has not yet been renewed for a second season. However, insiders suggest that Netflix is closely monitoring its international viewership before making a final decision.

If the UK and Australasian streaming numbers remain strong, a Season 2 renewal seems promising — particularly given the show’s cliffhanger ending that left fans desperate for more.

Why Madam Belongs on Your Watchlist

In an era of formulaic streaming shows, Madam feels refreshingly original. It blends sharp humor with emotional realism, all while challenging stereotypes about women, work, and power.

The series doesn’t glamorize sex work — it humanizes it. The brothel, in Mack’s hands, becomes a symbol of control, compassion, and community. Every challenge — from local bureaucracy to moral judgment — becomes a mirror reflecting broader social issues with wit and empathy.

And through it all, Martin Henderson’s presence adds a familiar yet surprising spark. For Virgin River viewers, watching him play against type feels like watching an entirely new side of an old favorite.

Final Verdict

Madam is smart, funny, heartfelt, and unafraid to take risks. It’s the kind of show that sneaks up on you — starting with laughter, ending with reflection, and leaving you wanting more.

With its strong cast, sharp writing, and Martin Henderson’s unexpected performance, Madam marks another win for Netflix’s growing international slate. Whether you’re a Virgin River devotee or just in search of something fresh and fearless, this is one series that deserves your attention.

Key Details:

• Title: Madam
• Based on: Real experiences chronicled by Antonia Murphy
• First Aired: July 4, 2024 (NZ) | February 4, 2025 (AU)
• Now Streaming: Netflix UK, Netflix Australia, Netflix New Zealand
• Episodes: 10 (30 minutes each)
• Main Cast: Rachel Griffiths, Martin Henderson, Rima Te Wiata, Ariāna Osborne, Danielle Cormack, Robbie Magasiva
• Creators: Shoshana McCallum, Harry McNaughton
• Season 2: Not yet announced

Madam proves that sometimes the most provocative stories are also the most human — and with Martin Henderson in the mix, the results are impossible to ignore.