The Most Anticipated TV Shows of 2026
The television landscape in 2026 promises a diverse array of returning favorites and highly anticipated new adaptations. Major streaming platforms and traditional networks are preparing to launch major installments of beloved franchises alongside fresh original content. Audiences can look forward to everything from epic fantasy prequels to gritty crime dramas and nostalgic revivals. This year marks a significant moment for the industry as several long running narratives reach their conclusion while new cinematic universes begin to expand.
‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ (2026)
This fantasy series is scheduled to arrive on HBO Max on January 18, 2026. The story is based on the novellas by George R. R. Martin and takes place a century before the events of ‘Game of Thrones’. It chronicles the travels of a knight named Duncan the Tall and his young squire known as Egg. The production highlights the feudal society of Westeros through a smaller and more personal lens than the original series.
‘Steal’ (2026)
The heist thriller ‘Steal’ is set to premiere on Prime Video on January 21, 2026. The plot follows a team of professional thieves who attempt a daring robbery involving high value assets. Filming took place in various international locations to enhance the realism of the global crime narrative. This series emphasizes the strategic planning and high stakes required for such a complex operation.
‘Agatha Christie’s Seven Dials’ (2026)
Netflix will release this adaptation of the classic mystery novel on January 15, 2026. The narrative involves a mysterious secret society and a series of unexplained events that a group of young people must solve. It brings the iconic wit and suspense of Agatha Christie’s work to a modern streaming audience. The production features a talented cast dedicated to honoring the source material through careful period detail.
‘Outlander’ (2014–2026)
The eighth and final season of the historical romance series premieres on Starz on March 6, 2026. This installment concludes the story of Claire and Jamie Fraser as they face the dangers of the American Revolution. The season consists of ten episodes that provide a definitive ending for the time traveling protagonists. It serves as a culmination of the long running adaptation based on the book series by Diana Gabaldon.
‘One Piece’ (2023–2026)
The second season of the live action adaptation of the popular manga series debuts on Netflix on March 10, 2026. Monkey D. Luffy and his crew continue their quest for the ultimate treasure as they enter the perilous Grand Line. The new episodes introduce several beloved characters from the source material and expand the world building of the series. This production has gained significant attention for its visual effects and faithful recreation of the original story.
‘Daredevil: Born Again’ (2025–2026)
Charlie Cox returns as Matt Murdock in the second season of this Marvel Cinematic Universe series on March 4, 2026. The show is available on Disney+ and follows the titular hero as he fights crime in the streets of New York City. This season continues the gritty and grounded approach to the superhero genre while exploring the legal and moral dilemmas of its protagonist. It integrates characters and themes from earlier iterations while forging a new path for the character within the larger franchise.
‘House of the Dragon’ (2022–2026)
The third season of this ‘Game of Thrones’ prequel is expected to premiere on HBO during the summer of 2026. The story continues to document the brutal civil war between the factions of the Targaryen family known as the Dance of the Dragons. New alliances are formed and existing conflicts escalate as the battle for the Iron Throne intensifies. The production maintains its focus on political intrigue and large scale dragon battles to drive the narrative forward.
‘Bridgerton’ (2020–2026)
The first part of the fourth season of this romantic period drama premieres on Netflix on January 29, 2026. This installment focuses on the romantic pursuits of another member of the Bridgerton family within London’s high society. The series is known for its lavish costumes and modern interpretations of historical social dynamics. Fans can expect new social scandals and elaborate balls as the central characters search for love.
‘Bridgerton’ (2020–2026)
Netflix will release the second part of the fourth season on February 26, 2026. These remaining episodes resolve the central romantic conflicts and social tensions established in the first half of the season. The story continues to explore themes of family loyalty and the pressures of societal expectations in the Regency era. This split release strategy allows the streaming platform to sustain viewer interest over several weeks.
‘Euphoria’ (2019–2026)
The highly anticipated third season of this drama is slated to release on HBO in April 2026. This new chapter moves the characters away from their high school lives via a significant jump forward in time. The narrative maintains its focus on the complexities of young adulthood and the challenges of personal growth. Production resumed after several delays to bring the long awaited continuation of the story to fruition.
‘The Night Manager’ (2016–2026)
The second season of this espionage thriller arrives on Prime Video on January 11, 2026. Tom Hiddleston reprises his role as Jonathan Pine as he is drawn back into the world of international arms dealing. The story explores the ongoing consequences of his previous undercover work and the emergence of new global threats. This return comes a decade after the original miniseries and expands the scope of the intelligence operations featured in the show.
‘Industry’ (2020–2026)
The fourth season of this corporate drama is scheduled for a January 11, 2026 release on HBO Max. The characters continue to navigate the high pressure environment of the banking industry while facing new economic challenges. This season focuses on the evolution of the main ensemble as they gain more power and responsibility within their firm. It remains a critical look at the personal sacrifices made in the pursuit of wealth and status.
‘The Pitt’ (2025–2026)
The second season of this medical drama is set to debut on HBO Max on January 8, 2026. The series explores the intense work lives of staff members in an urban hospital emergency room. Noah Wyle leads the cast through various medical emergencies and interpersonal conflicts. This installment aims to build on the established character relationships and introduce new professional hurdles for the medical team.
‘His & Hers’ (2026)
This new series premieres on January 8, 2026 though the specific streaming platform is yet to be confirmed. The story is an adaptation of a psychological thriller novel that features a dual perspective narrative. It investigates a complex crime through the eyes of two different characters with conflicting viewpoints. The production emphasizes the tension and unreliable nature of the information provided by the protagonists.
‘Ponies’ (2026)
Peacock will launch this original series on January 15, 2026. The narrative focuses on the personal and professional lives of characters within a specific social setting. It is designed to be a character driven drama that explores themes of friendship and ambition. This project is part of the streaming service’s effort to expand its catalog of original scripted content.
‘Star Trek: Starfleet Academy’ (2026)
This new addition to the ‘Star Trek’ franchise is set to premiere on Paramount+ on January 15, 2026. The series follows a new class of cadets as they undergo training to become officers in the United Federation of Planets. It focuses on the challenges of youth and the responsibilities of leadership within a diverse intergalactic environment. The show aims to attract a younger audience while maintaining the core values of the long running science fiction saga.
‘The Beauty’ (2026)
This series premieres on FX and Hulu on January 16, 2026. The story is based on a comic book series where a sexually transmitted disease makes people beautiful but eventually kills them. It explores the societal consequences of an obsession with physical appearance and the ethical dilemmas of the cure. The production features a blend of horror and social commentary to create a unique narrative experience.
‘Wonder Man’ (2026)
Marvel Studios will release this series on Disney+ starting January 27, 2026. The show introduces Simon Williams who is an actor and stuntman endowed with superpowers. It serves as a satirical look at the entertainment industry within the context of the superhero world. The project stars Yahya Abdul Mateen II in the title role and is part of the ongoing expansion of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
‘Memory of a Killer’ (2026)
This crime thriller is scheduled for a January 25, 2026 release on a platform that will be announced soon. The plot follows an aging assassin who discovers he is suffering from memory loss while completing a final job. This condition forces him to question his past actions and the people he has worked for throughout his career. The narrative combines elements of action with a psychological study of a man facing his own mortality.
‘Strip Law’ (2026)
The series ‘Strip Law’ is expected to debut on February 20, 2026 on a platform yet to be revealed. The show combines the procedural elements of a legal drama with the unique setting of a gentleman’s club. It explores the legal challenges and personal stories of the individuals who work within and patronize the establishment. This production aims to offer a different perspective on the intersection of law and entertainment.
‘The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins’ (2026)
This dramedy is set to premiere on February 23, 2026 on a platform to be determined. The story follows the life of a man who experiences a sudden downfall before attempting to rebuild his reputation. It focuses on themes of resilience and the humor found in difficult life transitions. The series features an ensemble cast that portrays the various people who influence the protagonist’s journey toward redemption.
‘Margo’s Got Money Troubles’ (2026)
The series premieres on April 15, 2026 on a platform that is currently being finalized. The plot centers on a young woman who turns to an unconventional method of earning money after facing financial hardship. It explores the modern digital economy and the personal consequences of public attention. The show combines elements of comedy and drama to tell a story about survival in the current age.
‘Widow’s Bay’ (2026)
This mystery drama is slated for an April 29, 2026 release on a platform to be announced. The narrative is set in a small coastal town where a series of disappearances haunts the local community. It follows a determined investigator who uncovers long buried secrets while searching for the truth. The series utilizes its atmospheric setting to enhance the sense of suspense and isolation.
‘Scrubs’ (2001–2026)
The beloved medical comedy returns with a revival series on ABC on February 25, 2026. This new iteration brings back several original cast members as they mentor a new generation of doctors. The show maintains the signature blend of humor and heart that made the original series a success. It explores the changes in the medical profession over the past two decades through the eyes of familiar characters.
‘Young Sherlock’ (2026)
This new take on the iconic detective arrives on Prime Video in 2026. The series focuses on the early life of Sherlock Holmes as he begins to develop his legendary investigative skills. It explores his formative years and the events that shaped him into the world’s most famous consultant. The production is directed by Guy Ritchie and aims to provide a fresh perspective on the character’s origin story.
Share which of these upcoming series you are most excited to watch in the comments.