All the TV Shows Coming to HBO Max in October 2025

October brings a fresh wave of TV shows to HBO Max, packed with everything from reality family dramas and animated adventures to true crime chills and international thrillers. Whether you’re into heartwarming family stories like the polygamous life in ‘Sister Wives’ or the quirky animations of ‘Smiling Friends’, there’s something to dive into during these crisp fall evenings. This lineup spans genres, offering laughs, scares, and thoughtful explorations of culture and survival.

From survival challenges in ‘Largados e Pelados Brasil’ to supernatural investigations in ‘Expedition X’, the month highlights diverse narratives that pull you into worlds both familiar and far-flung. With premieres rolling out weekly, it’s the perfect time to settle in with popcorn and discover new favorites that blend education, entertainment, and edge-of-your-seat suspense.

‘Good Cop/Bad Cop’ (2025)

Siblings Lou Hickman and Henry Hickman, detectives in the small town of Eden Vale, tackle quirky cases with limited resources while mending their strained relationship under their father, the police chief. Created by John Quaintance, the comedic procedural premiered on February 19, 2025, on The CW and Stan in Australia, blending humor with crime-solving. Leighton Meester stars as the veteran detective Lou, with Luke Cook as her awkward brother Henry, emphasizing their clashing styles.

Clancy Brown plays the authoritative chief, supported by Devon Terrell, adding layers to the family dynamics. Directors like Trent O’Donnell handle episodes, such as the pilot ‘Peace in the Valley’, where a heist turns murder. Writers, led by Quaintance, craft witty dialogues and procedural twists, drawing from small-town charm and sibling rivalry for engaging narratives.

‘Eva Longoria: Searching for Spain’ (2025)

Eva Longoria embarks on a gastronomic pilgrimage across Spain, exploring cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and San Sebastian to connect with her Mexican-American heritage through culture, food, and people. The eight-episode series, produced by CNN Original Series, delves into regional flavors from Basque Country’s innovative cuisine to Galicia’s wild landscapes. Premiering on April 27, 2025, it features interactions with chefs like Ferran Adrià and Victor Arguinzoniz.

Longoria hosts and executive produces, with guests like Lucia Freitas highlighting culinary mastery. Directors capture vibrant settings, from Andalusia’s tapas to Asturias’s seafood traditions. Writers frame the narrative around personal ancestry, blending travelogue with heartfelt discoveries of Spain’s diverse heritage.

‘My Happy Place’ (2025)

A rotating cast of celebrity hosts, including Alan Cumming, Taraji P. Henson, Simu Liu, and Billy Porter, revisits locations tied to their personal histories, sharing intimate stories and memories that shaped their lives. The unscripted travel series emphasizes emotional journeys through diverse destinations, offering glimpses into the hosts’ formative experiences. Produced for a 2025 premiere, it combines heartfelt narratives with scenic explorations.

Each host guides episodes, drawing from their backgrounds for authentic reflections. Directors focus on intimate cinematography, while writers curate prompts to elicit vulnerable anecdotes. The format highlights universal themes of growth and nostalgia across varied cultural lenses.

‘Krypto Saves the Day!’ (2025)

Superman’s super-powered dog Krypto embarks on chaotic, everyday rescues in Metropolis, blending heroic feats with canine mischief like chasing pigeons or saving school buses. Developed by Ryan Kramer as a tie-in to the 2025 ‘Superman’ reboot, the animated shorts from Warner Bros. Animation and DC Studios premiered on August 8, 2025, with episodes like ‘School Bus Scuffle’. Voice cast includes non-speaking cameos by Clark Kent.

Producers Michael Baum and Kramer oversee the zany, family-friendly adventures, emphasizing Krypto’s Kryptonian abilities in lighthearted chaos. Directors like David Gemmill handle quick-paced action, while writers craft comedic misadventures without deep plots, focusing on fun and mischief.

‘The Friday the 13th Murders’ (2025)

Investigators revisit real tragedies linked to Friday the 13th dates, uncovering disturbing truths through in-depth accounts and expert insights on the world’s most feared day. The documentary series explores historical cases tied to the ominous calendar date, revealing patterns of misfortune and crime. Premiering on October 2, 2025, it draws from true events without fictional elements.

Narrators and experts like forensic analysts provide context, with no central cast beyond interviewees. Directors compile archival footage and reenactments, while writers structure episodes around chronological events and psychological analyses of superstition’s impact.

‘The Real Murders on Elm Street’ (2024)

The series examines murder investigations occurring on Elm Streets across America, highlighting how ordinary suburban settings turn horrific through quadruple homicides, torture, and revenge. Each episode details cases like the Gustafson murders or attacks involving hidden intruders, using police archives and witness accounts. Premiering in 2024 on Investigation Discovery, it connects real crimes to the iconic street name.

Featuring detectives and family members in interviews, with actors like Adam Chisnall in dramatizations. Directors weave timelines, while writers emphasize investigative breakthroughs and community fallout from these shocking events.

‘Mysteries of the Abandoned’ (2017)

Explorers delve into deserted engineering marvels worldwide, uncovering why sites like sea forts, ghost towns, and marooned structures became ruins through historical analysis and on-site visits. Hosted by experts like Rob Bell, the series revisits projects for untold secrets and rebirth efforts. Debuting in 2017 on Science Channel, it spans global locations with dramatic narratives.

Recurring specialists Kasper Michaels and Dominic Selwood provide insights, alongside guest historians. Directors capture eerie visuals, while writers blend engineering facts with mystery-driven storytelling for engaging explorations.

‘Where We Call Home’ (2020)

Homeowners and designers share stories of transforming commercial properties and unconventional spaces, like abandoned factories, historic churches, and railway stations, into personalized modern residences across North America. The HGTV series highlights creative renovations that blend functionality with unique character, from a 65,000-square-foot Geneva, New York factory turned family loft to a San Antonio art-filled retreat merging historic and contemporary elements.

Episodes feature diverse locations, such as a Kauai home incorporating a salvaged school bus and treehouse amid Hawaii’s landscapes. Debuting in 2020, it emphasizes innovative design solutions and the emotional ties people build with their reimagined spaces.

‘Smiling Friends’ (2020)

Employees at Smiling Friends Inc., including optimistic Pim Pimling and cynical Charlie Dompler, tackle bizarre client requests to spread happiness in a surreal world. Created by Zach Hadel and Michael Cusack for Adult Swim, the adult animated series premiered on April 1, 2020, with episodes like ‘The Smiling Friends Go to Brazil!’. Voice cast features Cusack as Pim and Hadel as Charlie.

Supporting voices include Marc M. as Mr. Boss and recurring guests like Tom Fulp. Directors handle the chaotic animation, while writers craft absurd plots blending dark humor and heartfelt moments.

‘Alex vs America’ (2022)

Iron Chef Alex Guarnaschelli faces off against regional chefs in cooking battles, where challengers select ingredients and times to exploit her weaknesses for cash prizes. Hosted by Eric Adjepong, the Food Network series premiered in 2022, emphasizing blind tastings and diverse cuisines like eggs or rice dishes.

Judges like Jet Tila and Claudette Zepeda evaluate rounds, with competitors from states like California and Kansas. Directors capture high-stakes kitchen action, while writers structure competitive formats without scripted outcomes.

‘Baylen Out Loud’ (2025)

TikTok star Baylen Dupree navigates independence with Tourette syndrome, supported by her family of parents, five siblings, and fiancé Colin Dooley, an Air Force member. The TLC reality series premiered on January 13, 2025, covering events like Tic Con and her engagement on September 9, 2024.

Dupree leads as herself, with Dooley and siblings like Julie and Allen providing context. Directors film daily challenges, while writers frame episodes around her vocal tics and pursuit of autonomy.

‘VGLY’ (2023)

In the cutthroat Latin urban music scene, aspiring artists face survival struggles, betrayals, and ambitions in a gritty tale of grit and talent. Created by Marcos Bucay, Alejandro Castro Cisneros, Gabriela Remirez de Estenoz, Santiago Espejo, and Jorge Tijerina for Max, it premiered on May 25, 2023.

Benny Emmanuel voices the lead Vgly, with Crystal Lopez as Esther and Sasha González in supporting roles. Directors highlight raw performances, while head writer Jorge Tijerina crafts dramatic arcs of fame and fallout.

‘Lu & the Bally Bunch’ (2023)

Little ladybird Lu starts preschool with friends Barnaby, Biba, Declan, Elodie, and Gus, exploring friendships through play, music, and big emotions in a colorful bug world. Created, written, and directed by Nicky Phelan for Cartoonito, it debuted on March 17, 2023, in New Zealand.

Voices include Freya McLaughlin as Lu, Joy Tú Clarke as Biba, and Marcus Power as Declan. The series features songs and lessons on sharing, with Phelan’s animation emphasizing heartfelt, slice-of-life adventures.

‘Bugs Bunny Builders’ (2022)

The Looney Builders team, led by Bugs Bunny, tackles wacky construction jobs in Looneyburg using vehicles and teamwork, learning lessons along the way. Produced by Warner Bros. Animation for Cartoonito, it premiered on July 25, 2022, with Eric Bauza voicing Bugs and Chandni Parekh as Lola.

Supporting cast includes Bob Bergen as Porky and Keith Ferguson as Daffy. Directors like those from the team focus on preschool-friendly humor, while writers integrate moral tales into chaotic builds.

‘Bering Sea Gold’ (2012)

Dredgers in Nome, Alaska’s Norton Sound chase gold in shallow waters, battling harsh conditions and equipment woes for seasonal hauls. Produced by Original Productions for Discovery Channel since January 2012, it follows captains like Shawn Pomrenke and Emily Riedel.

Crew includes Kris Kelly and Mike Rowe as narrator. Directors capture icy dives, while writers narrate the high-stakes pursuits and interpersonal dramas.

‘Impractical Jokers’ (2011)

Lifelong friends Q, Sal, Murr, and Joe challenge each other with outrageous hidden-camera dares, punishing the loser with embarrassing tasks. Created by the Tenderloins for truTV, it premiered on December 15, 2011, with over 10 seasons of improv comedy.

The quartet stars as themselves, with producers like Casey Jost. Directors film public antics, while writers devise escalating punishments without scripts.

‘The Chair Company’ (2025)

William Ronald Trosper uncovers a vast conspiracy after an embarrassing office mishap, spiraling into absurd corporate intrigue. Created by Tim Robinson and Zach Kanin for HBO, it premieres on October 12, 2025, with eight weekly episodes directed by Andrew DeYoung and Aaron Schimberg.

Robinson stars as Trosper, joined by Lake Bell as Barb Trosper, Sophia Lillis, Will Price, Joseph Tudisco, and Lou Diamond Phillips. Executive producers include Adam McKay and Todd Schulman, blending sketch comedy with thriller elements.

‘Graveyard Carz’ (2012)

At Mark Worman’s Oregon shop, technicians restore rusted 1960s-1970s Mopar muscle cars, adhering to the motto “It’s Mopar or No Car” through meticulous bodywork and engine rebuilds. Produced by The Division since 2011 on MotorTrend, it features pranks amid restorations.

Cast includes Worman, Royal Yoakum, Will Scott, and Allysa Rose. Directors capture shop antics, while writers frame comedic storylines around authentic repairs.

‘Mother, May I Murder?’ (2023)

True stories reveal how maternal bonds twist into conspiracies of greed, revenge, and cruelty, leading to manipulation and murder across America. The Investigation Discovery series premiered in 2023, using eyewitness accounts and archives for seven shocking cases.

Experts like Anna C. Salter and Howard Safir provide analysis, with dramatizations featuring actors. Directors compile timelines, while writers highlight psychological descent in family betrayals.

‘7 Little Johnstons’ (2015)

The Johnston family, all with achondroplasia dwarfism, pursues everyday American dreams with parents Trent and Amber raising five kids under 16. Premiering on January 6, 2015, on TLC, it documents relocations, school, and milestones since 2013.

The family stars as themselves: Trent, Amber, Jonah, Elizabeth, and others. Directors film unscripted life, emphasizing resilience and normalcy.

‘Beach Cottage Chronicles’ (2022)

Host Pia Malatesta tours North America’s scenic waterfront cottages, revealing designs, architecture, and owners’ intimate stories of joy and transformation. The Magnolia Network miniseries premiered in 2022, covering spots from Malibu to Quebec.

Guests share personal histories, with directors like Emmanuel Moran capturing serene visuals. Writers curate narratives blending heritage and renovations.

‘Mr Mikami’s Classroom’ (2025)

Tokyo University graduate Takashi Mikami joins the Ministry of Education to overhaul Japan’s system but confronts bureaucratic realities and authority clashes. Based on Roba Shimori’s work, it premiered on January 19, 2025, on TV Asahi.

Tôri Matsuzaka stars as Mikami, with Riho Yoshioka, Daiken Okudaira, and Aju Makita. Directors like Yôhei Miyazaki helm episodes, while Shimori writes reform-driven plots.

‘The Thaw’ (2022)

Detective Katarzyna Zawieja probes a young woman’s murder and missing newborn on the Odra River, battling personal grief from her husband’s death. Created by Marta Szymanek for HBO Europe, it premiered on April 1, 2022.

Katarzyna Wajda leads as Zawieja, with Bartlomiej Kotschedoff and Juliusz Chrzastowski. Director Xawery Żuławski and writer Szymanek craft tense investigations.

‘Light of My Lion’ (2024)

Brothers Hiroto and Michito Komori, the latter with autism, shelter mysterious boy Lion, disrupting their routine and unearthing family secrets. Premiering on TBS in 2024, it explores bonds and hidden pasts.

Yûya Yagira as Hiroto, Ryôta Bandô as Michito, and Tasuku Satô as Lion star. Directors handle emotional arcs, with writers focusing on quiet revelations.

‘Who Saw the Peacock Dance in the Jungle?’ (2025)

After ex-cop father Komugi’s Christmas Eve murder, she deciphers a conspiratorial letter with lawyer help, unveiling dark truths. Adapted from Asami Rito’s manga by TV Asahi, it premiered on January 23, 2025.

Madeleine Marie as Komugi leads, with directors like Takahiro Aoyama. Writers Rito and team build mystery through Tokyo settings and interpersonal tensions.

‘Grand Maison Tokyo’ (2019)

Disgraced chef Natsuki Obana and determined Rinko Hayami open a Tokyo restaurant chasing three Michelin stars, shadowed by past scandals. Ayuko Tsukahara directs the TBS series, premiering October 20, 2019.

Takuya Kimura as Obana, Kyôka Suzuki as Hayami, and Aki Asakura star. Writers emphasize culinary rivalries and redemption arcs.

‘True Beauty’ (2024)

High schooler Im Ju-kyung masters makeup to hide insecurities, rising to popularity while navigating romance and self-acceptance. Based on Yaongyi’s webtoon, tvN’s 2020-2021 series saw a 2024 revival.

Moon Ga-young as Ju-kyung, Cha Eun-woo, and Hwang In-youp lead. Director Kim Sang-hyeop and writers craft coming-of-age rom-com plots.

‘Ignite’ (2025)

Rookie lawyer Ryo Uzaki, driven by his father’s accident death, pursues justice recklessly in a web of mysteries and investigations. Premiering April 18, 2025, on TV Asahi, it blends action and law drama.

Shôtarô Mamiya as Uzaki, Moka Kamishiraishi star. Directors Fujii Michihito and Hara Hiroto helm episodes, with writers exploring hidden pasts.

‘Vivant’ (2023)

Yusuke Nogi traces a $90M overpayment to Balka, unraveling a global terror-financed vortex after a desert betrayal. Katsuo Fukuzawa writes and directs the TBS series, premiering July 16, 2023.

Masato Sakai as Nogi, Fumi Nikaidô, and Hiroshi Abe lead. Producers craft international intrigue with twists.

‘Until I Destroy My Husband’s Family’ (2024)

Minori Kisaragi plots revenge on cheating husband Yudai and lover Riko after discovering their scheme for her inheritance. Adapted from Mana Akaishi’s manga by TV Aichi, it premiered July 8, 2024.

Marika Matsumoto as Minori, Terunosuke Takezai as Yudai star. Directors Jin Ueda and Takehito Muroi guide thriller arcs.

‘Holmes Family Rescue’ (2022)

Contractor Mike Holmes and kids Michael Jr. and Sherry rescue homeowners from botched renos, fixing hazards like electrical issues. HGTV’s series premiered December 4, 2021.

The Holmes family stars, with guests like Katie Hunt. Directors capture transformations, focusing on expertise.

‘Expedition X’ (2020)

Josh Gates dispatches Phil Torres and Heather Amaro to probe supernatural encounters, cryptids, and UFOs in remote locales. Discovery’s spin-off from ‘Expedition Unknown’ premiered February 12, 2020.

Gates hosts, with Torres and Amaro investigating. Directors document eerie fieldwork and analyses.

‘Teen Titans Go!’ (2013)

Superhero roommates Robin, Cyborg, Starfire, Raven, and Beast Boy balance crime-fighting with silly teen antics in Jump City. Developed by Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic for Cartoon Network, it premiered April 23, 2013.

Voices: Scott Menville as Robin, Greg Cipes as Beast Boy. Directors like Horvath infuse comedy into action.

‘IT: Welcome to Derry’ (2025)

In 1960s Derry, Maine, residents face Pennywise’s terror leading to the 1980s Losers’ Club events, expanding Stephen King’s lore. HBO’s prequel series, developed by Andy and Barbara Muschietti, premieres October 26, 2025.

Bill Skarsgård reprises Pennywise, with Jovan Adepo and Taylour Paige. Writers Jason Fuchs and Brad Kane craft horror origins.

‘Naked and Afraid Brazil’ (2021)

Strangers pair up naked for 21-day survival in Brazil’s wilds, building shelters and foraging while forming bonds. Discovery+’s Brazilian ‘Naked and Afraid’ adaptation premiered November 9, 2021.

Hosts Fernando Monezzi and Taís Teixeira guide participants like Erika Rodrigues. Directors film harsh challenges.

‘American Monster’ (2016)

Dramatizations and home videos expose ordinary people hiding monstrous secrets, leading to crimes through interviews and archives. Investigation Discovery’s series premiered May 2022.

Narrator Robert Firth, with actors in reenactments. Directors blend docs and drama for chilling reveals.

‘Survival of the Beast’ (2025)

Adventurer Max Djenohan mimics animal survival tactics, like elephant water-finding, in extreme habitats worldwide. Animal Planet’s series premiered May 3, 2025.

Djenohan hosts, directed by Rob Sixsmith. Writers highlight zoological insights through immersive trials.

‘Jonathan Ross: Haunted Homecoming’ (2024)

TV host Jonathan Ross revisits East End childhood haunts, probing ghostly histories at sites like Victorian schools and inns. Premiering December 20, 2024, on Discovery+.

Ross leads, with investigators Kate Cherrell and Ian Lawman. Director Chris Amess captures paranormal hunts.

‘House Hunters’ (1999)

Buyers tour three homes with agents, weighing features before choosing amid emotional highs. HGTV’s long-running series premiered in 1999, narrated by Andromeda Dunker.

Real estate agents and couples star per episode. Directors film hunts, emphasizing decisions.

What show from this October lineup are you most excited to binge, and why not share your pick in the comments below?