Reviewers from various platforms highlight the show's strengths and weaknesses:
Critics from IGN and Metacritic agree that Spader's performance alone makes the show worth watching, even during weaker episodes. The Blacklist - Season 1
Season 1 of The Blacklist is widely considered the show's strongest, blending a high-stakes "villain-of-the-week" procedural format with a deep, overarching mystery. It currently holds an on Rotten Tomatoes . The Verdict The Blacklist - Season 1
The season thrives on constant questions: Is Red Elizabeth’s father? Who is the FBI mole? What is Tom Keen’s true objective?. What Fans & Critics Say The Blacklist - Season 1
James Spader is the undeniable star, delivering a "riveting" and "immaculate" performance as the charismatic yet amoral Raymond Reddington.