Netflix subscribers across the United Kingdom are flocking to a captivating new teen drama series that has rapidly ascended the streaming platform's popularity charts. Finding Her Edge, an eight-episode Canadian production that debuted on January 22, 2026, has swiftly secured its position as the fifth most-watched series in the UK, captivating audiences with its blend of competitive ice skating, family drama, and romantic tension.
A Compelling Adaptation with Olympic Ambitions
The series is adapted from Jennifer Iacopelli's novel of the same name, which itself draws loose inspiration from Jane Austen's classic Persuasion. It follows the story of Adriana Russo, portrayed by Madelyn Keys, a former figure skating prodigy who returns to the sport two years after the tragic death of her gold-medallist mother. Faced with the opportunity to uphold her family's Olympic legacy and rescue their financially precarious ice rink, Adriana seizes the chance to compete once more.
Unlikely Partnerships and Complicated Dynamics
Her quest for a skating partner leads her to an unlikely and initially unwelcome alliance with Brayden Elliot, the arrogant yet talented bad boy of ice dancing, played by Cale Ambrozic. The narrative complexity deepens with the arrival of Adriana's former ice-dancing partner and ex-boyfriend, Freddie O'Connell, brought to life by Olly Atkins. He returns with a cohort of Canadian Olympic hopefuls to train at the Russo family rink, accompanied by his new partner, setting the stage for intense personal and professional conflicts.
The series' official synopsis hints at the ensuing drama: 'At first, Freddie seems ready to forgive and forget — perhaps even rekindle something — until he sees her skate with Brayden. Because, despite the vitriol Adriana and Brayden spew at each other, their chemistry on the ice is undeniable.' It poses the central question: Can Adriana navigate the cutthroat world of competitive ice dancing, or will romantic entanglements derail her Olympic aspirations?
Critical Acclaim and Audience Reception
Finding Her Edge has garnered impressive critical praise, achieving a flawless 100% rating on the review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes. Critics have highlighted its engaging narrative and character depth. Pop Culture Planet noted in its review: 'Finding Her Edge is at its best when it leans into Adriana and Brayden’s connection, the Russo sisterhood, and the magic on the ice. There are surprising standout performances... that have me eager to see what they tackle next.'
Solzy at the Movies described the series as delivering 'a binge-worthy viewing experience,' while Collider remarked it offers 'easy-to-watch, aimless fun' for those seeking a young adult drama. Viewer feedback has been equally enthusiastic, with one audience member, Anna, commenting: 'Honestly, Finding Her Edge surprised me in the best way. It’s easy to watch but also really meaningful, and the characters feel genuine rather than overdone. The story pulls you in quickly, and by the end you actually want more.'
Behind the Scenes and Special Appearances
The adaptation was helmed by writers Jeff Norton, known for Geek Girl, and Shelley Scarrow of Degrassi: The Next Generation fame. Scarrow emphasised the series' layered nature, stating: 'On one level, our show is a soapy YA drama. But I set out to make it much more than that; [it’s] a layered family drama about a fractured family finding their path back together.' She elaborated on the protagonist's journey, noting Adriana shoulders immense responsibility in saving her mother's legacy, navigating new pressures both on and off the ice.
The production boasts notable cameos, including appearances from five-time Canadian figure skating champions Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier. British champions Lilah Fear and Lewis Gibson lend their voices as television commentators within the series. Additionally, the original author, Jennifer Iacopelli, makes a brief cameo as a librarian in the penultimate episode, adding a touch of authenticity for fans of the source material.
A Promising Start to 2026's Streaming Landscape
With its compelling mix of athletic ambition, familial duty, and romantic intrigue, Finding Her Edge has clearly resonated with UK audiences, marking a strong entry into Netflix's 2026 catalogue. As viewer Meenah aptly summarised: 'This show is a perfect way to open up 2026 with a dramatic bang! The plot is genuinely entertaining, and I love how the characters speak of the magic of ice skating!' The series is now available for streaming in its entirety on Netflix, offering a binge-worthy escape into the high-stakes world of competitive ice dancing.
