The Hunting Wives changed networks: How the Malin Akerman series went from Starz to Netflix

The Hunting Wives is the latest thriller series on the Netflix roster this year that comes with many expectations. The Malin Akerman and Brittany Snow-starring series is based on the bestselling book of the same name by May Cobb. The thriller series was initially set to release on Starz; however, it ultimately made Netflix its home after the streaming platform bought the U.S. rights to the series.

The series is executive produced by Hightown fame Rebecca Cutter, who has also taken on the roles of writer and showrunner. The Hunting Wives is produced by Lionsgate Television and 3 Arts Entertainment. Erwin Stoff and Cobb are also executive producers of the show. The first season of the series is set to premiere on July 21, 2025, on Netflix.

The series follows the story of Sophie O’Neil (played by Snow), who moves to Texas with her family from Boston and meets the charming socialite Margo Banks (played by Akerman) and her group of eccentric friends. However, things take a drastic turn when Sophie gets entangled in a murder investigation, unveiling secrets and menacing associations.

How The Hunting Wives went from Starz to Netflix

When Starz was part of Lionsgate, The Hunting Wives screen adaptation was picked up in October 2023 with an eight-episode series order. However, after Lionsgate and Starz separated in May 2025, Lionsgate Television acquired the rights for the series, as the studio felt that the show deserved a multi-season run—a far cry from the limited series approach taken by Starz. Meanwhile, Starz has been open to new projects that the network can completely control, including co-productions.

Lionsgate sold the U.S. rights for the series to Netflix and is in the process of looking for international buyers as well. Netflix has a one-year license for the series. Whether the streaming platform will order more seasons remains to be seen.

Along with Akerman and Snow, the series also stars Dermot Mulroney as Jed Banks, Chrissy Metz as Starr, Jaime Ray Newman as Callie, Evan Jonigkeit as Graham O’Neil, Katie Lowes as Jill, and George Ferrier as Brad.

Watch all episodes of The Hunting Wives on Netflix on July 21, 2025.

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