Netflix’s latest YA sensation Finding Her Edge has landed just in time for the Winter Olympics buzz, bringing viewers a perfect blend of competitive sports drama, family dynamics, and heart-fluttering romance. Based on Jennifer Iacopelli’s BookTok phenomenon, this 8-episode series proves that sometimes the journey matters more than the destination.
Finding Her Edge: Series at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | January 22, 2026 |
| Episodes | 8 |
| Genre | YA Drama, Romance, Sports |
| Rating | 3.5/5 ⭐ |
| Showrunner | Jeff Norton (Geek Girl) |
| Lead Cast | Madelyn Keys, Cale Ambrozic, Ollie Atkins |
| Inspiration | Jane Austen’s Persuasion |
The Story: Ice, Ambition, and Fake Dating
Adriana Russo (Madelyn Keys) returns to competitive ice skating after her sister’s career-ending injury, with one mission: save the family ice rink. Paired with arrogant skating prodigy Brayden Elliot (Cale Ambrozic), she enters a fake relationship for publicity while nursing feelings for her ex-partner Freddie (Ollie Atkins). The result? A love triangle sharper than a skate blade.
What Makes It Worth Watching
The series shines brightest in its spectacular skating sequences and family drama. Madelyn Keys delivers a breakout performance, handling both intimate emotional moments and high-stakes competition scenes with impressive range. The supporting cast, particularly Alice Malakhov as rebellious younger sister Maria, brings depth beyond typical YA stereotypes.
While the plot predictably hits every YA romance trope—fake dating, childhood friends, enemies to lovers—it’s the execution that matters. The choreography transitions from studio rehearsals to dazzling performances create visual spectacle that justifies the streaming experience. Think Heartstopper meets Spinning Out with a dash of Austen-inspired romance.
The Family Drama Edge
Beyond the romance, Finding Her Edge explores the pressure cooker environment of a skating legacy family. Father Will Russo (Harmon Walsh), a former world champion, struggles between supporting his daughters and maintaining the family’s competitive reputation. This adds emotional weight that elevates the show above standard teen drama fare.
Perfect Timing for Olympics Fever
Released to coincide with the Winter Olympics 2026 in Milan, the series gives viewers an appreciation for figure skating’s dedication and artistry. It’s Netflix’s answer to sports drama fans left disappointed by Spinning Out’s cancellation.
Should You Watch?
If you loved Ginny & Georgia, Geek Girl, or Heartstopper, Finding Her Edge deserves your weekend binge. It’s comfort viewing with enough emotional stakes to keep you invested until the ambiguous-yet-satisfying finale that hints at a potential second season.
For more Netflix recommendations and entertainment updates, explore our YA drama reviews and sports-themed shows.
