A new spy thriller is currently the number one show on Peacock. The Copenhagen Test, starring Simu Liu, began streaming on December 27, 2025. The series asks a compelling question: what happens when a spy’s greatest weapon—his own mind—is turned against him? The show’s full eight-episode first season is now available, and it mixes high-tech espionage with a personal story about loyalty and identity.
The response from critics and viewers has been split. Some find its complex plot gripping, while others feel it becomes too confusing. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to decide if this brain-hacking thriller is worth your next binge.
What Is The Copenhagen Test Actually About?
The series centers on Alexander Hale, a first-generation Chinese-American intelligence analyst played by Simu Liu. He works for a secret U.S. agency called The Orphanage, which monitors other intelligence groups. After a promotion, Alexander makes a terrifying discovery: his brain has been hacked. An unknown enemy has access to everything he sees, hears, and knows in real-time.
Instead of shutting him down, his bosses see an opportunity. They ask Alexander to pretend everything is normal. He must live his life under constant surveillance, acting as bait to trap the hackers. The story explores whether he can uncover the truth while performing for an unseen audience 24 hours a day. The title refers to a mysterious loyalty trial connected to his past.
Simu Liu Leads a Strong Cast
Simu Liu takes the lead as Alexander Hale. Known for his role as Shang-Chi in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Liu also serves as an executive producer on the series. He portrays Alexander as a capable but troubled agent haunted by a failed mission from three years prior.
He is joined by Melissa Barrera, who plays Michelle, a bartender Alexander meets who has her own secret ties to the spy world. The chemistry between Liu and Barrera’s characters is a noted highlight of the series.
The supporting cast includes several familiar faces:
- Sinclair Daniel as Parker, an analyst assigned to be Alexander’s handler.
- Brian d’Arcy James as Peter Moira, a senior director at The Orphanage.
- Kathleen Chalfant as St. George, the elusive founder of the agency.
- Saul Rubinek plays Victor Simonek, a former operative and mentor to Alexander.
The Critical Verdict: A Divided Response
Critics agree the show has a fascinating premise, but opinions split sharply on its execution.
Some reviewers recommend streaming it, praising its unique concept and Liu’s performance. One critic noted the show “satisfies our spy TV jones” and that “Liu passes the test as a dynamic leading man”. Another called it “an engaging, entertaining spy thriller with a sci-fi edge”.
However, other reviews point out significant flaws. A common criticism is that the plot becomes overly complicated. One major publication stated the show is “overly complicated” and “leads nowhere,” with too many characters and threads to follow easily. Another noted that while the moment-to-moment action can be enjoyable, “it can be easy to lose the plot”.
The show holds a score of 61 out of 100 on Metacritic, indicating mixed or average reviews. The audience score shows a similar divide, with many viewers loving the suspense, while others found the story confusing or the pacing slow.
What Viewers Are Saying About the Show
Audience reactions on social media and review platforms highlight this split. Many fans who enjoyed the show are binge-watching it, hooked by the central mystery.
One viewer on Metacriter wrote, “Obsessed from the first episode! Love the mix of science fiction and espionage… the Copenhagen test is an excellent SPY-fi!”. Another user shared, “My wife and I binge-watched the show in a single day. It’s an exceptional show with a captivating storyline and an outstanding cast”.
However, negative reviews often mention a slow or confusing start. A recurring piece of advice from viewers is to push past the first episode. One review explicitly advised: “Slog through episode 1. It may seem disjointed and misdirected… By episode 2, it congeals into something like a coherent picture”.
Other viewers were less forgiving, criticizing the lead performance or finding the technological premise unconvincing.
Behind the Scenes of the Peacock Thriller
The series was created by Thomas Brandon, who also acts as co-showrunner and writer alongside Jennifer Yale. The project has major horror pedigree behind it, with James Wan (creator of The Conjuring and Insidious franchises) serving as an executive producer through his Atomic Monster company.
Filming took place in Toronto, Canada, from October 2024 through March 2025. Simu Liu has mentioned performing many of his own stunts for the series, bringing a physical authenticity to the role.
In a roundtable interview, co-showrunner Jennifer Yale discussed the challenge of maintaining tension. She explained the goal was to create paranoia without exhausting the audience. “You want to be able to always make sure that your audience feels unsettled but not exhausted,” she said. “Every episode there was a push and pull”.
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Streaming Success and Future Seasons
Despite mixed reviews, the show is finding an audience. As of December 31, 2025, The Copenhagen Test is the number one most-watched TV series on Peacock in the United States, according to streaming data. It ranks above other popular Peacock titles like Supernatural and Vanderpump Rules.
This strong performance raises the question of a second season. The series has not been officially renewed yet. However, the first season’s ending does leave room for the story to continue, and the team behind the show has expressed hope to keep going if given the chance.
Final Watch Guide: Who Will Enjoy This Show?
If you are a fan of twisty, conspiracy-driven spy stories with a sci-fi edge, The Copenhagen Test offers a unique and thought-provoking binge. Its core concept of a man whose senses are no longer his own creates genuine paranoia. Fans of shows like Jack Ryan, 24, or Slow Horses may find elements to enjoy here.
However, if you prefer straightforward narratives with clear answers, this might not be the show for you. The plot requires attention, and some viewers may find the numerous characters and timelines challenging to track. As one critic summarized, it’s a “Who Can You Trust?” story that “keeps flipping characters to keep the show going”.
The Copenhagen Test is now streaming exclusively on Peacock. All eight episodes of the first season are available to watch.
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