Josh Hartnett’s recent career resurgence reaches a new milestone this month as his latest project, the supernatural thriller series Below, prepares for its global debut. Netflix has confirmed that the six-episode limited series will premiere all at once on October 8, 2026, positioning the show as a dark, coastal alternative to the recent wave of atmospheric horror hits.
The series arrives during a prolific window for Hartnett. Just one week prior to the Below premiere, his latest theatrical feature, Verity—in which he stars alongside Anne Hathaway and Dakota Johnson—opened in cinemas on October 2, 2026. This back-to-back release schedule underscores a significant period of activity for the actor, following his roles in high-profile projects like Fight or Flight and Oppenheimer.
Created and executive produced by Jesse McKeown, known for his work on The Umbrella Academy, Below is set in the remote Newfoundland town of Snook’s Arm. The narrative centers on a mysterious sea creature that begins terrorizing the local population. The series combines traditional creature-feature elements with the historical weight of the region, specifically referencing the Canadian government’s resettlement programs and the collapse of the local cod fishery as a backdrop for its unfolding mystery.
While early buzz has seen the series compared to Jaws and Stranger Things for its blend of small-town dynamics and monster-driven tension, it also occupies a specific niche in the current “coastal horror” trend.
Production and Cast Details
The production of Below leaned heavily into its Canadian setting, with filming taking place on location in St. John’s and Snook’s Arm, Newfoundland. Newly released production images from early October showcase the rugged, fog-laden landscapes that define the show’s aesthetic.
Hartnett is joined by a supporting cast well-versed in the genre. Charlie Heaton, a staple of Netflix’s Stranger Things, and Mackenzie Davis (Station Eleven) co-star in the series. Their involvement suggests a focus on character-driven drama amidst the supernatural threat, as the townspeople of Snook’s Arm are forced to confront both the creature from the depths and the isolation of their own community.
Netflix’s decision to release all six episodes simultaneously on October 8 indicates a binge-model strategy designed to capture the attention of horror fans leading into the mid-October season. As Hartnett’s Verity continues its theatrical run, Below provides a more intimate, home-viewing counterpart that leans into the unsettling atmosphere of the North Atlantic.
