Netflix to Debut 'Unchosen' in April
Based on the real-life experiences of former cult members, Unchosen is a reminder that no one is immune to the promise of safety and comfort – even when those promises are lies.
When most Americans think of cultish Christian fundamentalism, the first things that come to mind tend to be American: Southern Baptist revivals, Anabaptist Christian communities like the Mennonites, or the Branch Davidians. But the entire foundation of America was initially built on Protestant groups like the Puritans, which were founded in Europe and the U.K.
Hardline Christian sects still exist across the pond today, with those that could be classified as cults numbering in the thousands. The most recent to make headlines was the "Jesus Fellowship Church," better known as "The Jesus Army." This is all to say that, at first glance, most would look at Unchosen (originally titled Out of the Dust) and assume, from the images, that it was set somewhere in America. The entire cast is British, but it's pretty common to have a plethora of U.K. actors starring in an American series, especially ones that aim to be "prestige." (Around here, we call them "Undercover Brits.")
But in Unchosen, that's not the case. Based on the real-life experiences of former cult members, the six-part series is a reminder that when the world goes through periods of upheaval, like it is doing now, no one is immune to the promise of safety and comfort – even when those promises are lies.
Here's the series' synopsis.
“Rosie lives with her husband Adam and daughter in a cloistered Christian sect. The fateful arrival of escaped prisoner Sam into her life, reveals the reality and restraints of her world; perhaps this hidden religious community doesn’t have her best interests at heart. And, as the cracks begin to appear in her marriage, Sam presents as her saviour. But with his dark criminal past, where does the greatest danger lie – with the cult or with Sam?”
Molly Windsor (Traces) stars as Rosie, with Asa Butterfield (Sex Education) as her husband, Adam, and Fra Fee (Prime Target) as escaped convict, Sam. The series also features Christopher Eccleston (Doctor Who) and Siobhan Finneran (Happy Valley) as Mr. and Mrs. Phillips. Supporting cast includes Alexa Davies (COBRA), Aston McAuley (The Personal History of David Copperfield), Darren Strange (Ted Lasso), Rory Wilmot (Harry Potter), and newcomer Olivia Pickering.
Julie Gearey (Secret Diary of a Call Girl) created and wrote the show, with Phillipa Langdale (The Capture) and Jim Loach (Criminal Record) directing and Nick Pitt producing. Executive producers include Geary, Iona Vrolyk, and Myar Craig-Brown.
All episodes of Unchosen will debut on Netflix on Tuesday, April 21, 2026.
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