Is 'White Collar' the New 'Suits'? Matt Bomer's Hit Series on Netflix

Is White Collar the Next Suits Matt Bomers USA Network Show Returns to Netflix

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Eight months after the release of Suits on Netflix, another popular show from USA Network, White Collar, is now available on the streaming platform. If White Collar follows in the footsteps of Suits, it is likely to become a fan favorite in no time.

White Collar, which made its return to Netflix on Monday, April 1, tells the story of Neal Caffrey, a charming con artist played by Matt Bomer. After escaping from prison to be with his girlfriend, Neal is caught once again. However, instead of going back to prison, he joins a work-release program and becomes a consultant for FBI Agent Peter Burke, played by Tim DeKay, as they work together to bring down white collar criminals.

The show White Collar aired for six seasons from 2009 to 2014, running alongside Suits which had a nine-season run. Both shows were part of USA Network’s “Blue Sky” era, known for having well-developed main characters in procedural storylines. In Suits, Harvey is the experienced leader and Mike is the talented newcomer who lacks proper qualifications. Conversely, White Collar features Neal as the seasoned veteran and Peter as the charming protege whose credentials are often doubted.

While Suits had the added appeal of Meghan Markle, White Collar boasts a cast that includes familiar faces from beloved series. This includes Willie Garson from Sex and the City, Hilarie Burton Morgan from One Tree Hill, and Tiffani Thiessen from Saved by the Bell.

Matt Bomer and Hilarie Burton on the set of 'White Collar' in 2011.

Matt Bomer and Hilarie Burton on the set of ‘White Collar’ in 2011. Bobby Bank/WireImage

White Collar follows a crime of the week format similar to Suits, with overarching storylines focusing on the main characters. Peter, a married and dedicated law enforcement officer, contrasts with Neal, who constantly straddles the line between upholding the law and living a life of crime. The cases are entertaining, but it's the characters that truly captivate viewers over six seasons and potentially contribute to impressive Netflix viewership numbers.

Suits made a significant impact on Netflix viewership upon its addition to the platform in July. In 2023, it became the most streamed show, accumulating a total of 57.7 billion minutes watched on both Netflix and Peacock (53.1 billion minutes were from Netflix alone). The show also broke a record for the highest weekly viewership of an acquired series, with 3.88 billion minutes watched during the week of July 17.

The Suits stars have come together for Super Bowl commercials and are working on a spinoff called Suits: LA. Meanwhile, the White Collar cast is not just interested in a spinoff, they are eager to reunite.

Matt Bomer and Tim DeKay film 'White Collar'

Bomer shared with TVLine in November 2023 that there have been discussions about a potential project. He mentioned that the talks are serious and ongoing. While there are still details that need to be worked out, there is a definite plan in motion. The outcome remains to be seen.

The actor shared that creator Jeff Eastin has found a way to pay tribute to Garson in the potential reunion project following his passing in September 2021 due to cancer.

Bomer mentioned that his initial thought was honoring Garson, but he believes Eastin's idea not only celebrates Garson's contributions to the show but also pays homage to him as a person. He emphasized that he would only consider being part of the reunion if it effectively achieves this goal. Bomer sees it as a way for Garson to continue being a part of the show, even after his passing.

Bomer still cherishes his time on the show, expressing his love and loyalty for it. He announced the show's arrival on Netflix through an Instagram post on Sunday, March 31, calling it a surreal and magical ending to a dream come true experience.

Now, all six seasons of White Collar can be streamed on Netflix.

Editor's P/S:

The arrival of "White Collar" on Netflix has sparked excitement among fans of the beloved series and procedural dramas. With its engaging characters, captivating storylines, and talented cast, the show is poised to become a popular addition to the streaming platform. The intriguing dynamic between Neal Caffrey, the charming con artist, and Peter Burke, the dedicated FBI agent, promises a captivating blend of crime-solving and character development.

The potential reunion project mentioned in the article adds an additional layer of anticipation for fans. The cast's eagerness to reunite and the creator's plans to honor the late Willie Garson are heartwarming and suggest that the potential project could be a meaningful tribute to both the character and the actor. The ongoing discussions and Bomer's commitment to ensuring that the project appropriately acknowledges Garson's legacy demonstrate the deep affection and respect the cast and crew have for their former colleague.