The Outsider (2020)

A chilling HBO limited series where a small-town murder investigation collides with a terrifying supernatural force, blurring the line between the rational and the unknowable.

The Outsider - Series Information

  • Original Title: The Outsider
  • First Air Year: 2020
  • Last Air Year: 2020
  • Created by: Richard Price
  • Type: TV Series
  • Genres: Drama, Mystery, Crime
  • Content Rating (US): TV-MA
  • Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode: 60 minutes
  • Number of Seasons: 1
  • Number of Episodes: 10
  • Status: Ended
  • Original Language: English
  • Spoken Languages: English
  • First Air Date: January 12, 2020 (United States - TV-MA), January 12, 2020 (Canada - 18+), January 12, 2020 (United Kingdom - 18), January 12, 2020 (Germany - 16), January 12, 2020 (France - 16), January 12, 2020 (Australia - MA 15+), January 12, 2020 (Brazil - 16), January 12, 2020 (Mexico - C), January 12, 2020 (Italy - VM14), January 12, 2020 (Spain - 16)
  • Networks: HBO
  • Alternative Titles: The Outsider (US)
  • Production Companies: Aggregate Films, Temple Hill Entertainment, MRC, Pieface, Civic Center Media
  • Production Countries: United States of America

The Outsider - Plot

When an insidious supernatural force edges its way into a seemingly straightforward investigation into the gruesome murder of a young boy, it leads a seasoned cop and an unorthodox investigator to question everything they believe in.

The Outsider - Trailer

Watch the official trailer and see the dread unfold:

Fear has many faces.

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The Outsider - Cast & Crew

Creator(s)

  • Richard Price

Main Cast

  • Ben Mendelsohn
  • Cynthia Erivo
  • Bill Camp
  • Jeremy Bobb
  • Julianne Nicholson
  • Marc Menchaca
  • Mare Winningham
  • Paddy Considine
  • Yul Vazquez
  • Derek Cecil

Writers

  • Richard Price

Executive Producers

  • Marty Bowen
  • Richard Price
  • Jason Bateman
  • Andrew Bernstein
  • Michael Costigan

The Outsider - FAQs

Is The Outsider based on a true story?

No, The Outsider is not based on a true story. It is adapted from Stephen King's 2018 novel of the same name. While the series grounds its story in a realistic small-town crime investigation, it incorporates supernatural horror elements drawn entirely from King's fiction.

Who are the main actors in The Outsider?

The Outsider stars Ben Mendelsohn as detective Ralph Anderson and Cynthia Erivo as investigator Holly Gibney. The supporting cast includes Bill Camp, Julianne Nicholson, Marc Menchaca, Mare Winningham, Paddy Considine, Yul Vazquez, Jeremy Bobb, and Derek Cecil.

Where to watch or stream The Outsider?

The Outsider is available to stream on Max (formerly HBO Max). It can also be accessed through the HBO Max Amazon Channel, or purchased digitally on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Fandango At Home. Availability may vary by region.

Is The Outsider worth watching?

The Outsider earned strong critical praise, particularly for Cynthia Erivo's standout performance and its slow-burn tension. Critics lauded its atmospheric dread and confident storytelling. Audiences appreciated its blend of procedural crime drama with supernatural horror, making it a compelling watch for fans of both genres.

What is The Outsider about?

The Outsider follows detective Ralph Anderson as he investigates the brutal murder of a young boy in a small Georgia town. When ironclad evidence points to a local teacher, an equally airtight alibi complicates the case. A supernatural force gradually emerges, forcing Ralph and investigator Holly Gibney to reconsider reality itself.

Will there be a Season 2 of The Outsider?

As of now, The Outsider has not been renewed for a second season. HBO originally developed a Season 2 concept, but the project stalled and was ultimately not greenlit. The series concluded its 10-episode run in 2020 and is currently listed as Ended with no confirmed continuation.

What is the content rating for The Outsider?

The Outsider is rated TV-MA, indicating it is intended for mature audiences only. The series contains graphic violence, disturbing imagery, and adult themes including child murder and supernatural horror. Viewer discretion is strongly advised for younger or sensitive audiences.

Did The Outsider win any awards?

The Outsider received several award nominations, most notably earning Cynthia Erivo a Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actress in a Series. The show was also recognized at the Critics' Choice Television Awards and received Emmy consideration, reflecting its strong critical reception during its 2020 run.

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