Netflix has officially locked in the global release date for its much-anticipated young adult ice-skating drama Finding Her Edge, a coming-of-age series based on the popular novel by Jennifer Iacopelli. Blending romance, sports, family drama, and ambition, the series is shaping up to be one of Netflix’s most exciting teen dramas of early 2026.
The eight-episode first season will premiere worldwide on Netflix on January 22, 2026, giving audiences an emotionally rich story set in the glamorous yet cut-throat world of competitive figure skating. Headlined by Madelyn Keys and Cale Ambrozic, Finding Her Edge promises high-stakes performances both on and off the ice.
Alongside the release date announcement, Netflix has also quietly revealed first-look images, offering fans their first glimpse at the characters, skating sequences, and dramatic tension that will define the series.
Finding Her Edge Netflix Release Date and Episode Details
Netflix has confirmed that Finding Her Edge will debut globally on January 22, 2026. The first season consists of:
- Total Episodes: 8
- Average Runtime: Approximately 44 minutes per episode
- Genre: Young Adult (YA), Drama, Romance, Sports
- Based On: Finding Her Edge by Jennifer Iacopelli
The series was originally announced in January 2025, with the main cast revealed in March 2025. Filming began in mid-February 2025 and wrapped by May 2025, following an efficient production schedule.
Netflix Becomes the Sole Distributor After Canadian Network Shutdown
Initially, Finding Her Edge was planned as a co-distribution project between Netflix and Canada’s Family Channel, which is owned by WildBrain. However, during the summer of 2025, WildBrain confirmed that Family Channel—and three other networks—would permanently shut down after key distribution agreements were terminated.
As of October 2025, the network closure officially took effect, making Netflix the exclusive global distributor of Finding Her Edge. This change ensures a broader international reach and positions the series for stronger global visibility on Netflix’s teen and young adult content slate.
Story Overview: What Is Finding Her Edge About?
Set against the intense backdrop of elite figure skating, Finding Her Edge centers on the Russo sisters, a family once celebrated in the skating world but now struggling to keep their legacy alive.
Adriana Russo’s Journey
At the heart of the story is Adriana Russo, a talented 17-year-old competitive skater determined to reclaim her family’s fading reputation. Adriana is training for the World Championships, a career-defining opportunity that could either secure her future or end her dreams altogether.
To prepare for the competition, Adriana is paired with a new skating partner, Brayden Elliot—a disciplined, ambitious skater with his own emotional walls.
Love, Loss, and Complicated Feelings
While Adriana tries to focus on her partnership with Brayden, unresolved feelings for her former skating partner and first love, Freddie O’Connell, resurface. Their shared history adds emotional complexity, forcing Adriana to confront both her past and her future.
The Fake Relationship Twist
In a desperate attempt to save the family’s financially struggling skating rink, Adriana and Brayden agree to pretend to be a couple off the ice to attract a vital sponsorship deal. What starts as a calculated performance soon begins to blur into reality, challenging their priorities, emotions, and trust.
As the pressure mounts, Adriana must decide what truly matters—winning, love, or staying true to herself.
A Look Inside the Russo Family Dynamic
Beyond romance and competition, Finding Her Edge explores the powerful bond between siblings and the emotional cost of chasing perfection.
- The Russo sisters carry the weight of a once-legendary skating dynasty
- Financial struggles threaten their rink and livelihood
- Family expectations collide with personal dreams
This layered storytelling gives the series emotional depth, making it more than just a sports drama.
Finding Her Edge Cast: Full Character Breakdown
Netflix has assembled a strong ensemble cast led by rising young talent and familiar faces from teen television.
Main Cast
- Madelyn Keys as Adriana Russo
- Cale Ambrozic as Brayden Elliot
- Olly Atkins as Freddie O’Connell
- Alexandra Beaton as Elise Russo
- Harmon Walsh as Will Russo
Supporting Cast
The series also features:
- Meredith Forlenza
- Alice Malakhov
- Niko Ceci
- Millie Davis
- Sean Miko Chen
- Yona Epstein-Roth
- Miley Haik
- Aidan Shaw
- Nicole Volossetski
The diverse ensemble helps bring authenticity to the competitive skating world while appealing to a global teen audience.
Creative Team Behind the Series
Showrunner and Executive Producer
Finding Her Edge is led by Jeff Norton, who serves as showrunner and executive producer. Norton is best known for his work on:
- Netflix’s Geek Girl
- The Small Hand
Norton has described the adaptation as a deeply emotional story about love, sacrifice, dedication, and redemption, inspired by the timeless themes found in Jane Austen-style romances.
Executive Producers
The series is executive produced by:
- Josh Scherba
- Stephanie Betts
- Angela Boudreault (WildBrain)
Angela Boudreault emphasized the show’s female-driven creative leadership and its potential to resonate with teens worldwide.
Directors and Writers
- Directors: Shamim Sarif and Jacqueline Pepall
- Head Writer: Shelley Scarrow
- Additional Writers: Sabrina Sherif, Jeff Norton, Jacqueline Pepall
This experienced creative team ensures a balance of emotional storytelling, visual elegance, and character-driven drama.
Filming Locations and Production Details
Production took place across Ontario, Canada, including:
- Barrie
- Orillia
- Surrounding communities
These locations provided authentic skating environments and visually striking settings that enhance the series’ cinematic quality.
First-Look Images: What Fans Can Expect
Netflix has released several first-look images, teasing:
- Competitive skating performances
- Intimate character moments
- Behind-the-scenes tension between Adriana, Brayden, and Freddie
- The emotional atmosphere inside the Russo family rink
While a trailer has not yet been released, Netflix has confirmed that one will arrive closer to the premiere date.
Why Finding Her Edge Could Be Netflix’s Next Big YA Hit
Finding Her Edge checks all the boxes for a successful Netflix teen drama:
- Strong female lead
- Sports-driven storytelling
- Romance and emotional conflict
- Family struggles and ambition
- Global Netflix distribution
Fans of shows like Ginny & Georgia, Never Have I Ever, and Heartstopper—as well as sports dramas with romantic elements—are likely to connect with the series.
WildBrain and Netflix: A Proven Partnership
The series continues Netflix’s long-standing collaboration with WildBrain, which has previously delivered successful projects such as:
- Degrassi: Next Class
- I Woke Up a Vampire
- Sonic Prime
- Carmen Sandiego
This partnership adds further confidence in the show’s production quality and storytelling appeal.
Final Thoughts: When to Watch Finding Her Edge on Netflix
With its compelling storyline, talented cast, and emotionally rich themes, Finding Her Edge is shaping up to be one of Netflix’s most promising YA dramas of 2026.
Release Date: January 22, 2026
Platform: Netflix (Global)
As anticipation builds, fans can expect a full trailer and additional promotional material in the coming months. Until then, Finding Her Edge remains firmly on the must-watch list for teen drama and romance lovers.
Stay tuned for more updates as Netflix prepares to bring this ice-skating story to audiences around the world.
