10 HBO Max Original Series That Are So Good You Have to Watch Them Twice

HBO has a knack for crafting shows that stick with you long after the credits roll. Their original series often blend sharp writing, unforgettable characters, and stories that hit hard, making them perfect for multiple viewings.

Whether you’re into gritty crime dramas, heartfelt comedies, or epic fantasies, HBO’s lineup has something that demands a second watch to catch every detail. Here’s our list of 10 HBO original series that are so good you’ll want to dive back in.

The White Lotus (2021-present)

This anthology series throws wealthy vacationers into luxurious resorts, where their messy lives unravel in darkly funny ways. Each season brings a new cast, new location, and a fresh mystery, often with a biting take on privilege and human flaws.

Mike White’s creation keeps you hooked with its sharp humor and shocking twists. The stellar ensemble, from Jennifer Coolidge’s iconic Tanya to Theo James’ smarmy Cameron, makes every scene pop. Rewatching reveals clever foreshadowing and subtle character moments you might miss the first time.

The Last of Us (2023-present)

Set in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a fungal infection, this series follows Joel, a hardened smuggler, and Ellie, a teenage girl, as they navigate dangers and form a deep bond. It’s a faithful adaptation of the beloved video game.

Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey deliver raw, emotional performances that anchor the show’s heart-pounding action. The writing balances hope and despair, with episodes like Bill and Frank’s love story hitting even harder on a rewatch. You’ll spot new details in the world-building that make it worth revisiting.

The Rehearsal (2022-present)

Nathan Fielder’s bizarre yet brilliant show follows him helping ordinary people prepare for big life moments through elaborate, scripted rehearsals. It’s a mix of comedy, documentary, and social experiment that defies easy description.

Fielder’s deadpan humor and knack for uncovering human quirks make this a gem. The layers of meta-commentary and emotional depth reveal themselves more on a second viewing. You’ll catch how Fielder’s own vulnerabilities seep into the absurd setups, making it oddly profound.

Hacks (2021-present)

This comedy follows Deborah Vance, a veteran Las Vegas comedian, and Ava, a young writer, as they clash and grow through their unlikely partnership. Their dynamic drives the show’s humor and heart.

Jean Smart shines as Deborah, blending biting wit with vulnerability, while Hannah Einbinder’s Ava keeps up with sharp banter. Rewatching lets you appreciate the clever dialogue and the slow build of their bond. The show’s take on comedy and ambition feels fresh every time.

The Righteous Gemstones (2019-2025)

This wild comedy dives into the dysfunctional Gemstone family, a clan of televangelists juggling greed, faith, and family drama. Danny McBride leads the charge with his signature chaotic energy.

The ensemble, including John Goodman and Adam DeVine, delivers over-the-top laughs with surprising depth. Rewatching uncovers the show’s sharp satire of megachurches and the subtle growth of its flawed characters. Every episode is packed with quotable lines you’ll want to hear again.

Succession (2018-2023)

This darkly funny drama follows the Roy family, a media dynasty torn apart by power struggles and betrayal. It’s a masterclass in writing, with every line dripping with venom and wit.

The cast, led by Brian Cox and Jeremy Strong, brings layered performances that reveal new shades on rewatch. The intricate plotting and dialogue reward close attention, as you’ll catch sly references and character motivations that hit differently the second time around.

Euphoria (2019-present)

This bold teen drama follows Rue, a recovering addict, and her high school peers navigating love, trauma, and identity. Its raw storytelling and stunning visuals set it apart.

Zendaya’s Emmy-winning performance as Rue is gripping, with supporting roles like Hunter Schafer’s Jules adding depth. Rewatching lets you focus on the show’s cinematic style and hidden details in the characters’ choices. The emotional weight lands even harder on a second go.

The Wire (2002-2008)

This gritty crime drama explores Baltimore’s drug trade, schools, and politics through the eyes of cops, dealers, and citizens. It’s a sprawling story that feels like a novel brought to life.

The ensemble cast, including Dominic West and Idris Elba, delivers nuanced performances. Rewatching reveals how tightly woven the plot is, with early moments echoing in later seasons. You’ll appreciate the show’s realism and complex characters even more the second time.

Chernobyl (2019)

This five-episode miniseries recounts the 1986 nuclear disaster with chilling detail. It follows scientists, workers, and officials racing to contain the catastrophe while uncovering its causes.

Jared Harris and Stellan Skarsgård lead a stellar cast, with every episode packed with tension and heartbreak. A rewatch highlights the meticulous storytelling and haunting visuals, like the glowing reactor. You’ll notice new layers in the human cost and bureaucratic failures.

Watchmen (2019)

Set in an alternate America, this series expands the iconic graphic novel’s world, tackling race, power, and legacy through a superhero lens. It’s a bold, ambitious story that stands on its own.

Regina King’s powerful performance as Angela Abar anchors the show, with intricate plotting that unfolds like a puzzle. Rewatching lets you catch the dense foreshadowing and callbacks to the source material. The mix of action, mystery, and social commentary makes it endlessly rewatchable.

Which HBO series do you keep coming back to, or is there a gem we missed? Drop your thoughts in the comments!