‘The Body’ creator says new series applies ‘the intensity and ritual of religion to girlhood’

Netflix's new series 'The Body' premieres on November 11, 2026, with all eight episodes available at once. Created by Quinn Shephard, who previously worked on 'Under the Bridge' and directed four episodes, the show follows the Lions dance team at a Catholic high school in 2004. The story begins on Halloween night when an initiation ritual involving new recruit Grace Franklin takes a terrifying turn, leading to prophetic visions and mass hysteria in their town.

The ensemble cast includes Kristina Bogic as Anya Butler, one of the popular captains who secretly struggles with romantic feelings for her co-captain and best friend Elise Zakaria, played by Sara Boustany. Geena Meszaros stars as Lisbeth Anderson, a newcomer from West Virginia whose religious beliefs were shaken by her father's passing. Sofia Wylie, known for 'High School Musical: The Musical: The Series,' and Gabby Windey, winner of 'The Traitors' Season 3, play prominent roles, with Windey portraying the team's coach. Nnamdi Asomugha appears as Father Samuel Franklin, a priest in the show's Catholic setting, while Jackson Kelly plays Leo Anderson, Lisbeth's brother, and Shirley Chen plays Maddie Delaney.

Shephard told Entertainment Weekly she was interested in "applying the intensity and ritual of religion to girlhood," exploring faith and the power of belief. The series juggles girlhood, friendship, sexuality, belonging, faith, and dance routines, with the cast completing an eight-week dance bootcamp. The 2004 setting presented challenges, as Shephard noted, "You know who never learned how to type on the keypad? The entire cast of the show." Bogic said audition notes requested Anya feel like a leader but "don't lean into mean girl bitchy," and she aimed to give the character warmth and unpredictability. Meszaros described Lisbeth as searching for community after her father's death, finding it in the dance team.

Critical reception varies. The Hollywood Reporter's review states the "Catholic Schoolgirl Horror-Drama-Satire Leaves Much to Be Desired" despite "Modest Blessings," while Polygon calls it a "Near-Perfect 8-Episode Binge" and a "Carrie Meets Mean Girls" thriller.