If you’re into true crime, twisted love stories, or just want a gripping limited series with powerhouse performances, HBO Max’s Love & Death just dropped on Netflix—and it’s the talk of the streaming world right now. This seven-episode drama, based on a real-life Texas murder case from the 1970s, is now available to binge on Netflix in the US starting December 1, 2025.
What Is Love & Death All About?
Love & Death tells the story of Candy Montgomery (Elizabeth Olsen), a seemingly perfect churchgoing housewife whose life spirals out of control after she begins an affair with her neighbor, Allan Gore (Jesse Plemons). The series dives deep into the affair, the emotional fallout, and the shocking moment when Candy ends up killing Allan’s wife, Betty Gore (Lily Rabe), in self-defense during a violent confrontation. The drama doesn’t just focus on the murder; it explores the messy web of love, jealousy, and small-town secrets that led to the crime.
Why Is Love & Death a Must-See?
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True Crime with a Twist: The series is based on real events and has already earned a Primetime Emmy nomination, making it one of the most talked-about true crime dramas of the year.
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Elizabeth Olsen’s Performance: Olsen delivers a chilling, nuanced portrayal of Candy Montgomery that’s both relatable and unsettling, earning praise from critics and audiences alike.
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David E. Kelley’s Writing: The show is written by David E. Kelley (Big Little Lies, The Lincoln Lawyer), known for his sharp dialogue and layered storytelling.
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Stellar Cast: Jesse Plemons, Lily Rabe, and Patrick Fugit round out a cast that brings the complex relationships and moral dilemmas to life.
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Critical Acclaim: Reviews highlight the show’s gripping narrative and period-accurate setting, with some calling it “the perfect metaphor for marriage itself”.
What You Need to Know Before Watching
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The series is rated TV-MA and is best suited for mature audiences due to its graphic content and mature themes.
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It’s a limited series, so you can binge all seven episodes in a weekend.
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The show is co-exclusive, meaning it will be available on both Netflix and HBO Max for a limited time—so don’t miss it.
Final Verdict
If you’re a fan of true crime, character-driven dramas, or just want to see Elizabeth Olsen in one of her most intense roles yet, Love & Death is a must-watch. With its gripping plot, stellar cast, and real-life roots, it’s the kind of show that will keep you hooked from start to finish.
