Musim
Episod
Pelayan pemain
Pengikut

Pengikut

20137
DramaKejahatan
Diterbitkan
21 Jan 2013
Negara
Amerika Syarikat
Produksi
Outerbanks Entertainment
Pembunuh berantai terkenal Joe Carroll, setelah dinyatakan bersalah atas pembunuhan 14 pelajar perempuan di kampus universiti Virginia tempat dia mengajar sastra, melarikan diri dari penjara mati. FBI memanggil bekas agen Ryan Hardy untuk berkonsultasi mengenai kes ini, kerana dia yang bertanggungjawab dalam penangkapannya Carroll pada 2003. Ryan, bekerja rapat dengan pasukan FBI, termasuk Mike Weston dan Pakar FBI Debra Parker, menyusun rangkaian pembunuhan yang semakin berkembang yang diatur oleh Carroll yang licik.

About

Quick guide

Former FBI agent Ryan Hardy returns to hunt escaped serial killer Joe Carroll. A tense chase unfolds across three seasons.

Set in 2013, The Following follows Ryan Hardy, a former FBI agent pulled back into service after the escape of notorious serial killer Joe Carroll. The series blends crime drama with psychological thriller elements, as Hardy navigates a network of cult‑affiliated killers while the FBI tightens its net. With a strong ensemble cast that includes Kevin Bacon, James Purefoy, and Natalie Zea, the show examines obsession, morality, and the cost of vengeance. Over three seasons and 45 episodes, the series delves into the complexities of crime, the human mind, and the relentless pursuit of justice.

What to know

  • 3 seasons, 45 episodes
  • Runtime 41–45 minutes per episode
  • Main cast includes Kevin Bacon, James Purefoy, Natalie Zea
  • Set in New York, Virginia, and Maryland
  • Serial‑killer cult dynamics and FBI investigation
  • Graphic violence and psychological themes
  • Available on Netflix

Watch if

If you enjoy tightly woven crime dramas that pair psychological suspense with a relentless cat‑and‑mouse chase, The Following offers a compelling mix of complex characters and moral ambiguity.

Skip if

Skip if you prefer lighter thrillers, or are sensitive to graphic violence and intense psychological drama. The series contains mature content, gore, and a dark tone that may not suit all viewers.

crime violencedark tonedialogue heavyinvestigation heavypsychological elementssome goresuspensefulmature themes
Premise Overview
Set in 2013, The Following follows Ryan Hardy, a former FBI agent pulled back into service after the escape of notorious serial killer Joe Carroll. The series blends crime drama with psychological thriller elements, as Hardy navigates a network of cult‑affiliated killers while the FBI tightens its net. With a strong ensemble cast that includes Kevin Bacon, James Purefoy, and Natalie Zea, the show examines obsession, morality, and the cost of vengeance.
Key Characters Spotlight
Ryan Hardy, played by Kevin Bacon, is haunted by past failures and seeks redemption. James Purefoy’s Joe Carroll is a charismatic cult leader with a literary background. Supporting figures include Natalie Zea as Claire Matthews, the ex‑wife, and Annie Parisse as Debra Parker, the tough FBI agent. Shawn Ashmore’s Mike Weston provides youthful vigor and a bridge to the new generation of detectives.
Production & Filming
The series was produced by Outerbanks Entertainment and Warner Bros. Television, with filming primarily in New York City and occasional scenes in Virginia and Maryland. Each 41–45 minute episode was shot on a single‑camera setup, delivering a cinematic feel. Kevin Williamson’s direction emphasizes dialogue‑heavy scenes and a fast‑paced narrative structure.
Themes & Tone
The show tackles dark crime, psychological manipulation, and moral ambiguity. Graphic violence and some gore are used to heighten realism. The tone is intense and suspenseful, with a focus on character development and the psychological toll of hunting killers.
Episode Structure
Each season contains 15 episodes, following a tightly plotted arc that escalates stakes with each installment. The pacing shifts from investigative groundwork to climactic confrontations, balancing procedural elements with serial‑killer lore.
Where to Watch
All three seasons are currently available for streaming on Netflix, allowing viewers to binge the complete series. The platform provides subtitles and multiple audio options for a global audience.

FAQ

40 Q&A
How many seasons does The Following have?
The Following has three seasons.
Is The Following based on a true story?
The Following is not based on a true story.
Does Ryan Hardy get closure?
Ryan Hardy finds some peace but not complete closure.
What are the motivations of Ryan Hardy?
Ryan Hardy is driven by a desire to stop Joe Carroll and protect others.
What happens to Ryan Hardy at the end of the series?
Ryan Hardy survives the events of the series.
What is the twist in the first season?
The twist in the first season is that there are more killers working with Joe Carroll than initially thought.
When did The Following premiere?
The Following premiered on January 21, 2013.
What is the role of Claire Matthews in the series?
Claire Matthews is Ryan Hardy's former lover and a target of Joe Carroll.
What happens to Joe Carroll at the end of the series?
Joe Carroll dies at the end of the series.
What is the premise of The Following?
The Following is about an FBI agent hunting a serial killer who has followers.
Who is Paul Thornton?
Paul Thornton is a character who is part of Joe Carroll's cult.
What is the significance of Edgar Allan Poe in the show?
Edgar Allan Poe's writings inspire Joe Carroll's actions and the cult's themes.
Who are the recurring antagonists?
Joe Carroll and his followers are the main recurring antagonists.
Who is Emma Hill?
Emma Hill is a devoted follower and killer in Joe Carroll's cult.
What is the fate of Claire Matthews?
Claire Matthews is targeted and her fate is uncertain for a time but she ultimately survives.
Where can I watch The Following?
The Following is available on streaming services like Max.
How does Joe Carroll communicate with his followers?
Joe Carroll communicates through coded messages and his writings.
What is the fate of other prominent followers?
The fates of other followers vary, with many being captured or killed.
Does Joe Carroll achieve his ultimate goal?
Joe Carroll does not achieve his ultimate goal.
Who is Jacob Wells?
Jacob Wells is a character who is part of Joe Carroll's cult.
When did The Following end?
The Following ended on April 18, 2015.
What are the motivations of Joe Carroll?
Joe Carroll is motivated by a desire for fame and to create a legacy through murder.
Who are the main characters in The Following?
The main characters are Ryan Hardy and Joe Carroll.
What happens to Emma Hill?
Emma Hill is killed.
What is the relationship between Ryan Hardy and Joe Carroll?
Ryan Hardy is the FBI agent who caught Joe Carroll, and they have a complex, adversarial relationship.
What is the overall message of The Following?
The show explores how charismatic evil can spread like a virus, even after a killer is caught. It shows how one person's actions can inspire others to commit similar crimes. It also looks at the obsession people have with dark figures.
Who directed the pilot episode?
The pilot episode of 'The Following' was directed by Marcos Siega.
What other shows has James Purefoy been in?
James Purefoy has been in many other shows, including 'Rome,' 'The Following,' 'Altered Carbon,' 'Hap and Leonard,' and 'The Nevers.'
What other shows has Kevin Bacon been in?
Kevin Bacon has been in many TV shows and movies. He is known for 'Footloose,' 'Apollo 13,' and the TV series 'City on a Hill.' He also starred in 'The Following.'
What awards did The Following receive or get nominated for?
The show received some nominations, including for a People's Choice Award in 2014. It was nominated for Favorite Network Dramatic Series.
How did the show's ratings evolve over its run?
The show started with strong ratings. However, the viewership generally declined over its three seasons.
What are the fan theories about the show?
Fans have theorized about the true motives of some characters and the deeper meaning behind the cult's actions. Some theories suggest hidden connections between characters or that certain events were not as they appeared.
What is the age rating for The Following?
The Following is rated TV-14. This means it is intended for viewers aged 14 and older due to mature content.
What is the significance of the raven symbol?
The raven symbol in 'The Following' is used by the cult followers. It represents their connection to the cult leader, Joe Carroll, and their shared dark ideology.
What was the filming location for The Following?
The TV series 'The Following' was primarily filmed in and around New York City. This included locations in Connecticut as well.
What are the strengths of The Following?
The show's strengths include its suspenseful plot and the performances of its lead actors, particularly James Purefoy as the villain. It was effective at creating a sense of dread and mystery.
Are there any spin-offs or related media?
There are no official spin-offs or related media for 'The Following.' The story concluded with the series' cancellation.
What are the common criticisms of The Following?
Common criticisms include the show becoming overly reliant on shock value and plot contrivances. Some viewers found the story illogical or too violent as it progressed.
Is The Following suitable for all audiences?
No, 'The Following' is not suitable for all audiences. It contains violence, disturbing themes, and mature content, making it appropriate for viewers aged 14 and older.
Who is the creator of The Following?
The creator of 'The Following' is Kevin Williamson. He is also known for creating 'Dawson's Creek' and writing the 'Scream' movies.

Pelakon

Kevin Bacon
Kevin Bacon
Ryan Hardy
James Purefoy
James Purefoy
Joe Carroll
Shawn Ashmore
Shawn Ashmore
Mike Weston
Jessica Stroup
Jessica Stroup
Max Hardy
Sam Underwood
Sam Underwood
Mark Gray
Zuleikha Robinson
Zuleikha Robinson
Gwen
Gregg Henry
Gregg Henry
Dr. Arthur Strauss