Here Are the Best TV Shows to Stream this Weekend on HBO Max, Including ‘Primal’

HBO Max continues to expand its library with a diverse selection of programming available for streaming this weekend. The current lineup includes highly anticipated prequels, returning medical dramas, and popular animated series from various genres. From the high-fantasy landscapes of Westeros to the gritty reality of competitive street racing, there is a wide range of content for viewers to explore. These selections represent the most current trending and high-viewership titles on the platform today.

‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ (2026)

This new addition to the ‘Game of Thrones’ universe is scheduled to premiere on HBO Max on January 18, 2026. Set approximately ninety years before the events of the original series, the story focuses on the travels of Ser Duncan the Tall and his young squire, Egg. The narrative explores a period in Westeros history where the Targaryen dynasty still holds the Iron Throne at the height of its power. This adaptation is based on the popular ‘Tales of Dunk and Egg’ novellas written by George R.R. Martin.

‘The Pitt’ (2025–)

The medical drama ‘The Pitt’ premiered its first season on January 9, 2025, and quickly established a dedicated audience. Following its initial success, the second season arrived for streaming on January 8, 2026, to further explore the challenges of the American healthcare system. Starring Noah Wyle, the series provides a realistic look at the intense daily operations of a modern hospital in Pittsburgh. It emphasizes the personal and professional lives of frontline workers as they navigate complex medical cases and systemic obstacles.

‘Street Outlaws: No Prep Kings’ (2018)

Originally debuting in 2018, ‘Street Outlaws: No Prep Kings’ is listed as coming to the platform this week to satisfy fans of automotive competition. The series showcases the high-stakes world of underground street racing where tracks have not been professionally prepared for traction. Drivers must rely on their technical engineering skills and precise car tuning to manage raw power on raw surfaces. Each episode highlights the intense rivalries and mechanical challenges faced by racing teams from across the United States.

‘Primal’ (2019)

The animated series ‘Primal’ first premiered in 2019 and remains a featured title in the weekly HBO Max lineup. Created by Genndy Tartakovsky, the show depicts the survival story of a caveman and a Tyrannosaurus who form an unlikely bond in a prehistoric world. The narrative is driven primarily by visual storytelling and atmospheric sound design rather than spoken dialogue. Its critical success is often attributed to its striking art style and the emotional depth of its wordless character interactions.

‘IT: Welcome to Derry’ (2025)

Premiering in 2025, ‘IT: Welcome to Derry’ is currently featured as a major highlight in the platform’s trending coverage. The series serves as a prequel to the recent cinematic adaptations of Stephen King’s novel, exploring the dark history of the titular Maine town. It investigates the origins of the recurring evil entity that haunts the community every twenty-seven years and the events that preceded the films. The narrative provides additional depth to the established horror mythology through new characters and historical lore.

‘Task’ (2025)

The 2025 series ‘Task’ has recently appeared on the most-watched lists for the streaming service due to its gripping narrative. This crime drama centers on a specialized police unit tasked with solving high-profile and intricate criminal investigations in an urban setting. It explores the moral and professional challenges faced by detectives who must navigate complex social and political dynamics to achieve justice. The show’s rise in popularity reflects a growing interest in gritty, character-driven procedural dramas on the platform.

‘Peacemaker’ (2022–)

This series launched in 2022 and continues to be one of the most popular and trending titles on the service. ‘Peacemaker’ features John Cena as a protagonist who believes in achieving peace at any cost, regardless of the violence required to maintain it. Following the events of the DC Extended Universe films, the character joins a mysterious black-ops squad to eliminate threats to national security. The show is recognized for its unique combination of dark comedy, intense action sequences, and character development.

‘Adventure Time: Fionna & Cake’ (2023–)

Debuting in 2023, ‘Adventure Time: Fionna & Cake’ is currently featured on the platform’s recent trending lists. The series serves as a spin-off to the beloved ‘Adventure Time’ franchise, following the multiversal adventures of Fionna the Human and Cake the Cat. Alongside Simon Petrikov, the characters confront existential threats while exploring themes of identity and personal growth. It offers a more mature perspective on the established lore while maintaining the whimsical art style of the original series.

‘Smiling Friends’ (2020–)

Since its 2020 debut, ‘Smiling Friends’ has remained a constant presence on the platform’s viewership charts. The series follows the employees of a small company dedicated to bringing happiness to the residents of a bizarre and often surreal world. Main characters Charlie and Pim encounter a variety of eccentric figures while attempting to solve their often dark or nonsensical problems. The show is highly regarded for its unconventional storytelling and its distinct blend of various animation styles.

’90 Day Fiancé: The Other Way’ (2019–)

This reality series began its run in 2019 and continues to be a prominent title on the trending list this week. ’90 Day Fiancé: The Other Way’ follows American citizens who move to foreign countries to live with their partners, reversing the premise of the original series. The show documents the cultural, legal, and personal obstacles that arise during the process of international relocation and marriage. It remains a popular installment in the wider franchise due to its focus on the complexities of expatriate life.

Share which of these series you plan to binge-watch first in the comments.