New Comedy Movies & TV Shows Set to Release in January 2026

The comedy landscape in January 2026 offers a diverse selection of theatrical releases, streaming specials, and returning television favorites. Audiences can expect a mix of long-standing reality competitions, sitcom renewals, and brand-new stand-up performances. Major networks and streaming platforms like Netflix, FOX, and Apple TV+ are set to debut fresh content throughout the month. This lineup provides various options for viewers seeking lighthearted entertainment to start the new year.

‘Kidz Bop Live: The Concert Movie’ (2026)

This film brings the high-energy musical experience to the big screen for a limited engagement starting January 2. It features young performers covering contemporary pop hits with kid-friendly lyrics and choreographed dance routines. The theatrical release aims to capture the atmosphere of the group’s world tour for families. Fans of the franchise can expect a compilation of popular tracks and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the production.

‘I’m Chevy Chase and You’re Not’ (2026)

Premiering on CNN on January 1, this documentary series explores the life and career of the legendary comedic actor. It traces his rise to fame as a breakout star on ‘Saturday Night Live’ and his subsequent success in various film franchises. The series features archival footage and interviews to provide a comprehensive look at his influence on American humor. It examines both the professional triumphs and the personal challenges faced by the iconic performer.

‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ (2009)

The competition series launches its newest season on January 2 on MTV, featuring a fresh group of queens vying for the title. RuPaul returns as the head judge alongside a panel of experts to evaluate the contestants’ charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent. Each episode includes various challenges ranging from acting and sewing to musical performances. The show continues to be a significant cultural platform for drag performance and creative expression.

‘The Masked Singer’ (2019)

This reality competition series returns to FOX on January 7 with a new roster of celebrity contestants hidden behind elaborate costumes. A panel of celebrity detectives attempts to guess the identities of the singers based on vocal clues and performance hints. Each week, the contestant with the fewest votes is unmasked and eliminated from the competition. The show blends musical performances with a high-stakes guessing game that engages audiences nationwide.

‘Hollywood Squares’ (2025)

The modern revival of the classic game show returns to CBS on January 7 with its second season. Two contestants play a game of tic-tac-toe by determining if the answers given by celebrities in a nine-square grid are true or false. The show features a rotating panel of comedians and television personalities who provide humorous and often unpredictable responses. This iteration updates the vintage format for contemporary viewers while retaining its lighthearted competitive spirit.

‘The Ms. Pat Show’ (2021)

The sitcom returns for its latest season on BET+ starting January 7. Based on the real-life experiences of Patricia Williams, the show follows a former convicted felon turned suburban mom. The narrative balances sharp-witted humor with sincere explorations of family dynamics and social issues. The unfiltered approach of ‘The Ms. Pat Show’ to parenting and life remains the central focus of the series.

‘Animal Control’ (2023)

FOX premieres new episodes of this workplace comedy on January 15, following a group of animal control officers. Joel McHale stars as a cynical employee who often finds himself in absurd situations involving both animals and his eccentric colleagues. The show explores the daily challenges and comedic mishaps that occur while patrolling the streets of Seattle. It utilizes a mix of physical comedy and character-driven humor to depict the lives of these local officials.

‘Going Dutch’ (2025)

This comedy series continues its run on FOX starting January 15. The show centers on an arrogant Army colonel who is reassigned to lead a base in the Netherlands after a career setback. He must navigate the cultural differences and the more relaxed military protocols of his new environment. The plot focuses on his attempts to instill discipline in a crew that operates under very different social norms.

‘The Upshaws’ (2021)

The working-class family comedy returns to Netflix with new episodes on January 15. Starring Mike Epps and Wanda Sykes, the series follows the Upshaw family as they navigate life’s ups and downs in Indiana. The story centers on Bennie Upshaw’s efforts to provide for his family while dealing with his sarcastic sister-in-law. ‘The Upshaws’ is known for its multi-camera format and its portrayal of relatable domestic struggles and triumphs.

‘Shrinking’ (2023)

The acclaimed comedy-drama series returns to Apple TV+ on January 28 for its newest installment. Jason Segel stars as a grieving therapist who begins to tell his clients exactly what he thinks, bypassing his professional training. This unconventional approach leads to significant changes in both his life and the lives of those he treats. Harrison Ford also stars as a senior therapist dealing with his own personal and health challenges.

‘Yo Gabba GabbaLand!’ (2024)

The revival of the popular children’s program continues on Apple TV+ starting January 30. The show features a blend of live-action characters, animation, and musical performances designed for a preschool audience. It emphasizes life lessons and social skills through catchy songs and vibrant visual storytelling. Each episode of ‘Yo Gabba GabbaLand’ invites young viewers to explore a colorful world filled with imagination and rhythmic education.

Please share which of these comedy premieres you are most excited to watch in the comments.