'Duster' episode release schedule: When do all the news episodes air?

Duster is the latest high-stakes crime drama to hit Max, and it’s already turning heads. Created by J.J. Abrams and LaToya Morgan, the series premiered on May 15, 2025, and plunges viewers into the gritty American Southwest of the 1970s, a world of vintage muscle cars, dangerous alliances, and moral gray zones. Season 1 has eight episodes in total, dropping weekly every Thursday at 9 p.m. ET.

Duster does not waste any time in presenting itself as your average crime narrative. Sure, there are fast cars, tense moments, and all the excitement you’d expect, but what stands out is how it uses all of that to tell a deeper story. The ‘70s setting isn’t just for style; it feels lived-in, from the dusty backroads to the soundtrack that hits just right. And with new episodes continuing to release through early July, it’s building momentum one week at a time.

Beneath all the action, the show is really about power, identity, and what it means to stand by someone, or not. It’s the kind of story that doesn’t rush but pulls you in little by little. And the characters? They don’t feel like plot devices; they feel like people you could actually encounter, flaws and all. That’s what makes it stick, and why tuning in weekly as each new episode drops keeps things exciting.

---

Duster: Plot and storytelling

Set in 1972, Duster follows Jim Ellis, a getaway driver who’s made a name for himself working for crime boss Ezra Saxton. But his life takes an unexpected turn when he crosses paths with Nina Hayes, the first Black female FBI agent, determined to bring down Saxton’s criminal empire. Nina sees Jim as her way into the heart of the operation, but getting him to switch sides is a whole other challenge. Their dynamic is tense, unpredictable, and exactly what gives the show its edge.

Duster balances high-speed chases and explosive moments with a story that’s really about people – messy, complicated and deeply human. It tackles heavy themes like systemic racism, loyalty, and justice without ever feeling preachy. And all of that plays out against a backdrop that’s as raw and textured as the time period itself.

---

Full season release schedule

Season 1 of Duster features eight episodes, released weekly on Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET. Here’s the full episode rollout:

Episode 1 – Baltimore Changes Everything – May 15, 2025

Episode 2 – May 22, 2025

Episode 3 – May 29, 2025

Episode 4 – June 5, 2025

Episode 5 – June 12, 2025

Episode 6 – June 19, 2025

Episode 7 – June 26, 2025

Episode 8 (Finale) – July 3, 2025

Episode 1 recap:

The premiere sets the tone with Nina Hayes confronting bias within her agency while chasing a career-making case. Her investigation into Saxton leads her to Jim, a conflicted driver who’s just started to question the life he’s built. Their uneasy partnership sparks the central tension for the season: trust, survival, and a shot at redemption.

Where to stream

All episodes of Duster are streaming exclusively on Max. New episodes drop every Thursday evening, and the platform offers different subscription tiers, including ad-free options. Viewers in the U.S. can also access Max through bundled packages with select streaming services, depending on availability.

Early critical reception

So far, the show’s been getting a pretty warm reception. Viewers and critics alike have been drawn to its retro look and the standout performances from the cast. The 1970s setting doesn’t feel like a forced throwback, but gives the story more texture and weight. In addition to the style, it helps set the tone. While Duster is still finding its footing, early reviews suggest it has all the makings of something special if it continues to build on what it has already started.

That said, there’s also been some critique. A few reviews mention uneven pacing and character development that feels rushed in parts. But for many, those are minor bumps in what’s otherwise a stylish and compelling ride.

Final thoughts

Duster mixes all the high-stakes energy of a good crime drama with an emotional core that hits harder than you’d expect. It’s raw, stylish, and always walking a tightrope between chaos and control. The characters aren’t perfect, far from it, and that’s exactly what makes them feel real. If you’re into stories where nothing is black and white, people are forced to make impossible choices and find unexpected allies along the way, then Duster might be something worth diving into.

And with new episodes rolling out weekly, now’s the perfect time to buckle up and follow the ride.