Stephen King’s Chapelwaite has risen to streaming prominence in July 2025, gaining significant attention years after its original release. Originally met with criticism for its pacing and stretched narrative, the period drama now ranks third on MGM+’s Top 10 chart in the United States, benefiting from renewed interest sparked by the success of King’s The Institute.
The series, based on King’s short story Jerusalem’s Lot, initially struggled to capture viewers and critics alike. However, the current momentum reflects a growing enthusiasm among horror fans rediscovering King’s adaptations across streaming platforms, marking a noteworthy rebound for Chapelwaite.
Initial Reception of Chapelwaite and What Set It Back
Chapelwaite, adapted from the 1978 short story Jerusalem’s Lot and developed by Peter and Jason Filardi, debuted in 2021 with high expectations but quickly fell short. Critics and audiences pointed out the slow pacing and an overly extended ten-episode format, which diluted the original story’s intensity and left viewers disengaged.
The series earned a low 60% rating on Rotten Tomatoes as reviewers complained it was burdened with excessive eerie atmosphere but lacked clear direction. Attempts to expand a concise story into a lengthy saga resulted in moments where the narrative stalled, contributing to disappointing reception.
Despite this, Chapelwaite persisted and has now found a fresh audience, suggesting that initial criticism did not mark the end of its appeal.
How The Institute’s Popularity Boosted Chapelwaite’s Viewership
After The Institute, another Stephen King adaptation, reached the number one spot on MGM+, viewers’ curiosity about King’s universe led to increased interest in related series. The Institute, which follows a gifted teen abducted by a secretive organization exploiting psychic children, sparked enthusiasm that extended beyond its own episodes.
With only three of eight episodes released, The Institute’s rising viewership caused fans to seek out other King-based content, allowing Chapelwaite to benefit from this renewed focus. This resurgence highlights the interconnected success of King adaptations on major streaming platforms.
Chapelwaite’s Storyline and Its Star Power
Starring Oscar winner Adrien Brody as Captain Charles Boone, Chapelwaite centers on a family haunted by loss and dark secrets in a haunted 19th-century setting. The show’s blend of horror, mystery, and period drama offers a distinct atmosphere backed by strong performances, which have helped it maintain a dedicated following despite earlier criticisms.
Though MGM+ originally planned a second season, it was later canceled. However, the recent surge in viewership may influence the studio to reconsider continuing the story, demonstrating how shifting audience interests can impact future production decisions.
Renewed Hope and Future Outlook for Chapelwaite
Chapelwaite’s newfound streaming success illustrates how persistence and audience trends can revive a show’s standing long after an underwhelming debut. This case underscores the power of Stephen King’s brand in attracting viewers and how one hit series like The Institute can influence viewership patterns across related titles.
As Chapelwaite climbs the charts and continues to intrigue viewers, industry watchers will likely monitor if MGM+ decides to revive the series. For fans of King’s chilling tales, this resurgence offers an opportunity to explore one of the author’s lesser-known adaptations with the attention it deserves.
Both Chapelwaite and The Institute remain available for streaming on MGM+ for audiences eager to experience Stephen King’s diverse horror storytelling.
