Watch Online: Rooks (2026)

Rooks (2026): A Post-War Thriller Coming to Russian Television

In April 2026, Russian television will premiere Rooks, a gripping war and politics drama that combines Cold War intrigue with a personal vendetta spanning decades. This eight-episode series brings together acclaimed Russian actors and filmmakers to explore a dark chapter of post-war history, where a seasoned police captain must confront a dangerous Nazi fugitive hiding in plain sight. If you're looking to watch this compelling new series online, here's everything you need to know about the release date, cast, and where to find it.

Plot Summary: Murder, Deception, and Hidden Vengeance

Set in 1947 Leningrad, Rooks follows Police Captain Alexander Ratnikov as he investigates a series of brutal murders plaguing the Soviet city. His investigation leads him to Pavel Vedernikov, a technologist at a local fish farm—but Vedernikov harbors a sinister secret. In reality, he is Gunther Seiler, a former deputy head of the Nazi concentration camp for children "Grachi." Seiler has meticulously constructed a Soviet identity as cover while hunting for his family's valuable art collection, believed lost during World War II. As Seiler's desperation grows, his body count rises. For Ratnikov, apprehending this Nazi criminal represents more than justice—it's his only lead to discovering the truth about his own daughter, who vanished during the war. The series explores themes of deception, redemption, and the long shadow cast by history.

Release Date & Episode Information

Rooks premieres on April 2, 2026. The series comprises one complete season with 8 episodes, giving viewers a substantial narrative arc to follow. The show has been greenlit as a returning series, meaning there is potential for future seasons depending on viewership and critical reception.

Full Cast & Crew

The ensemble cast includes acclaimed Russian actors: Artyom Tkachenko, Aleksey Makarov, Aleksey Serebryakov, Evgeniya Dmitrieva, Daria Balabanova, and Mikhail Evlanov. The series is created and directed by Ilya Maximov, known for his sophisticated approach to historical drama.

Production Details:

• Networks: REN TV, Wink
• Production Studios: REN TV, Wink, Pimanov and Partners
• Country of Origin: Russia
• Genre: War & Politics
• Format: Television Series

Where to Watch Rooks Online

Streaming availability for Rooks will be confirmed closer to the April 2026 premiere date. The series is expected to be available on its primary networks—REN TV and the Wink streaming platform—with potential for international distribution announcements in the coming months. Bookmark this page for updates on streaming options in your region.

Why You Should Watch Rooks

If you enjoy sophisticated historical dramas that blend mystery, political intrigue, and personal stakes, Rooks offers compelling storytelling set against the backdrop of post-war Soviet history. The series combines the tension of a police procedural with the moral complexity of war crimes, creating a narrative that explores how the past refuses to stay buried. With a talented cast and experienced director, this is one of 2026's most anticipated Russian television releases.

Stay tuned for streaming availability updates and additional details as the premiere date approaches.

This page contains informational content about the television series Rooks. SignalFeed does not host or distribute any copyrighted material.