The latest season of the divisive Netflix series Emily in Paris has achieved a remarkable feat, soaring to the number one most-watched spot on the platform's TV charts. This comes despite the show, starring Lily Collins, being widely panned by both critics and viewers, with many admitting they engage in 'hate-watching'.
The Phenomenon of 'Hate-Watching'
Season five, which premiered in December 2025, sees marketing executive Emily Cooper relocate from Paris to Rome to expand her agency, Savior. The plot continues to follow her tumultuous professional and personal life, including strained friendships and a complicated love life. Despite its popularity, the series has been labelled 'garbage' and 'terrible' by a significant portion of its audience.
Evidence of this 'hate-watch' trend is rampant on social media. One viewer, Bananafrancesca, wrote on X: 'The thing about #EmilyinParis is that I hate every choice every character makes and yet I continue to watch it every season.' Another user, Alexhaobao, commented: 'I am happy to report that the new season of Emily in Paris is just as garbage as it’s always been. Obsessed.'
Critical Reception vs. Audience Figures
The critical response has been mixed. On the review aggregator Popcornmeter, season five holds a 75% rating from critics, but this plummets to a mere 41% approval from fans. Publications have been scathing; The London Evening Standard noted that even a new cast member like Minnie Driver couldn't 'save this terrible show from itself,' while Slant Magazine criticised its 'money-hungry motives.'
In contrast, Metro's own review offered a more charitable four-star verdict, suggesting the show leaves viewers 'feeling optimistic, charmed and ready for more.' This dichotomy between critical disdain and strong viewing figures underscores the show's unique position as a 'guilty pleasure' for millions.
What's Next for Emily?
The season concluded with a cliffhanger, as Gabriel (Lucas Bravo) accepted a job in Greece and sent Emily a postcard invitation. Creator Darren Star has teased to Deadline that he hopes Emily will 'say yes,' hinting that the pair will 'stay in each other’s lives.' As of now, Netflix has not officially renewed the show for a sixth season.
All five seasons of Emily in Paris are currently available to stream on Netflix. The series' continued success, driven by a potent mix of devotion and derision, proves that in the modern streaming era, even a show people love to hate can become a chart-topping phenomenon.
