‘Stranger Things’ Still Tops Netflix’s Weekly Most-Watched Shows List

Netflix subscribers in the United States prioritized high-stakes drama and major franchise returns during the week spanning December 29, 2025, to January 4, 2026. The viewership data highlights a significant interest in the conclusion of long-running series and the debut of new thrillers. Comedy specials and live-action sports entertainment also secured prominent positions within the top rankings. This diverse viewing pattern reflects the platform’s focus on varied content categories to ring in the new year.

‘Stranger Things’ (2016–2025)

In the fourth installment of the ‘Stranger Things’ franchise, a new supernatural threat named Vecna emerges from the Upside Down to terrorize the town of Hawkins. The main group of friends is separated across different locations, including California and a high-security Russian prison. This season explores the origins of Eleven’s powers and the dark history of the Hawkins National Laboratory. The episodes are notably longer than previous seasons and delve deeper into psychological horror themes.

‘Stranger Things’ (2016–2025)

Set during the summer of 1985, the third season of ‘Stranger Things’ centers on the opening of the Starcourt Mall and the hidden threats beneath its foundation. The Mind Flayer returns in a new physical form, utilizing residents of Hawkins to build its terrifying power. Eleven and Mike navigate their burgeoning relationship while the group works to uncover a secret Soviet operation. The season culminates in a massive battle at the mall that permanently changes the lives of the core characters.

‘Raw: 2025 – December 29, 2025’ (1993)

This specific episode of ‘WWE Raw’ marks a significant era for the wrestling program as it continues its high-profile broadcasting run on Netflix. The installment features high-stakes matches and storyline developments leading into the major sports entertainment events of the new year. Fans tuned in to see prominent superstars compete in the ring and deliver promos to further their ongoing athletic feuds. The transition to the streaming platform has allowed for a global reach for this long-standing weekly program.

‘Stranger Things’ (2016–2025)

In the second season of ‘Stranger Things’, Will Byers struggles with the lingering effects of his time in the Upside Down as a larger shadow looms over the town. A new character named Max joins the group, and Dustin discovers a mysterious creature he names Dart. Eleven lives in hiding with Chief Hopper while she attempts to learn more about her past and her biological mother. The season focuses on the closing of the gate and the introduction of the Mind Flayer as the primary antagonist.

‘Ricky Gervais: Mortality’ (2025)

The stand-up special ‘Ricky Gervais: Mortality’ features the comedian reflecting on the inevitable end of life and the various absurdities of the human condition. Gervais utilizes his signature dark humor to discuss topics such as aging, legacy, and modern societal expectations. The performance was recorded during his global tour before arriving on the streaming platform for a worldwide audience. It follows his previous successful specials, continuing his long-term partnership with the service for unfiltered comedic content.

‘Emily in Paris’ (2020–2025)

The fifth season of ‘Emily in Paris’ continues the adventures of Emily Cooper as she navigates her complicated career and romantic life in the French capital. After the dramatic events of the previous season, Emily finds herself balancing new professional responsibilities with her feelings for Gabriel and Alfie. The show continues to showcase the fashion and scenery of Paris while introducing several new supporting characters to the mix. Viewers tuned in to see the resolution of the various cliffhangers regarding Emily’s future in the competitive marketing world.

‘Dave Chappelle: The Unstoppable…’ (2025)

In this latest comedy special, ‘Dave Chappelle: The Unstoppable Force’ returns to the stage to share observations on culture, fame, and current events. The set showcases the comedian’s storytelling ability and the provocative humor that has defined his career for several decades. Chappelle addresses various social issues with a mix of satire and personal anecdotes. The special arrived as part of a high-profile collaboration between the performer and the streaming giant.

‘Stranger Things’ (2016–2025)

The debut season of ‘Stranger Things’ introduces the mysterious disappearance of Will Byers and the appearance of a young girl with telekinetic powers. Set in 1983 Indiana, the story follows Mike, Dustin, and Lucas as they search for their missing friend. They eventually uncover a government conspiracy involving a parallel dimension known as the Upside Down. This season established the show’s 1980s aesthetic and its heavy homage to classic science fiction and horror films of that era.

‘Run Away’ (2026)

Based on the novel by Harlan Coben, ‘Run Away’ follows a father’s desperate search for his estranged daughter who has vanished into a dangerous underworld. The protagonist, Simon, finds himself embroiled in a criminal conspiracy as he uncovers dark secrets about his own family. Each episode reveals new layers of the mystery, leading to a series of unexpected twists and revelations. The adaptation stars a cast of established television actors and maintains the suspenseful tone typical of Coben’s literary work.

‘Stranger Things’ (2016–2025)

The final season of ‘Stranger Things 5’ brings the battle against the Upside Down to its ultimate conclusion for the residents of Hawkins. Following the rift opened at the end of the previous installment, the town is transformed into a literal battlefield between dimensions. The core group of protagonists must unite to defeat Vecna once and for all and save their world from total destruction. This installment concludes the major character arcs that began nearly a decade prior in the show’s premiere episode.

Tell us which of these trending Netflix hits you have finished binging in the comments.