15 Must-Watch TV Shows Releasing in 2026: Your Ultimate Guide
- Joao Nsita
- 1 hour ago
- 8 min read
Introduction
After years of delays, strikes, and production halts, television is finally back in full force. If 2025 was the year of getting back on track, 2026 is the year the industry shifts into high gear. We are looking at a calendar packed with blockbuster franchises, daring original stories, and A-list talent making the leap to the small screen.
From the expansions of the Game of Thrones and Yellowstone universes to the long-awaited return of visionaries like Ryan Murphy and Dan Levy, the upcoming slate is nothing short of spectacular. Trends on TikTok and Pinterest already show massive hype for "Cozy Fantasy" and "Noir Aesthetic," themes that feature heavily in this year's lineup. Whether you are a sci-fi geek, a rom-com lover, or a true-crime addict, 2026 has a new obsession waiting for you.
Here is our definitive, ranked list of the 15 most anticipated shows premiering in 2026.
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15. RJ Decker (ABC)
Genre: Crime Comedy / Mystery Premiere: TBD 2026
Based on Carl Hiaasen's novel Double Whammy, RJ Decker brings the chaotic energy of South Florida to network television. Scott Speedman stars as a disgraced news photographer turned private investigator who gets tangled in a web of eccentric criminals and corrupt officials.
Hiaasen's signature blend of satire and sunshine noir is perfect for fans of Bad Monkey or Burn Notice. It promises to be a fun, fast-paced procedural with a biting edge, exploring the weirdest corners of the Sunshine State.
14. Stuart Fails to Save the Universe (HBO Max)
Genre: Sci-Fi / Comedy Premiere: TBD 2026
In a bold departure from the sitcom format, this The Big Bang Theory spinoff takes Stuart Bloom (Kevin Sussman) on a multiverse adventure. Reunited with Denise, Bert, and Kripke, the gang must fix a reality-breaking mistake Stuart made in his comic book shop.
This serialized sci-fi comedy offers a fresh twist on beloved characters. Expect meta-humor, alternate versions of Sheldon and Penny, and a higher budget than the original multi-cam sitcom ever allowed. It’s geek culture eating itself in the best way possible.
13. Little House On The Prairie (Netflix)
Genre: Historical Drama Premiere: TBD 2026
The classic is back. Netflix’s adaptation of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s books aims to introduce the Ingalls family to a new generation. With Alice Halsey as Laura and Luke Bracey as Pa, the show promises a grounded, character-driven look at frontier life.
This reboot taps into the "Cottagecore" trend dominating Pinterest, offering a cozy yet realistic portrayal of 19th-century survival. Expect beautiful cinematography and tear-jerking family moments that rival This Is Us in a bonnet.
12. Elle (Prime Video)
Genre: Coming-of-Age / Comedy Premiere: TBD 2026
Before she bent-and-snapped her way into Harvard Law, Elle Woods was just a high school girl with big dreams. Produced by Reese Witherspoon, this prequel series explores the formative years of the iconic character, played by newcomer Lexi Minetree.
Set in the 90s, Elle is poised to be a fashion feast, filled with butterfly clips and bright pink outfits. It chronicles how Elle developed her signature confidence and intellect, proving that you can be both serious and sparkly.
11. DTF St. Louis (HBO)
Genre: Dark Comedy / Thriller Premiere: TBD 2026
With a title that grabs your attention and a cast that demands it, DTF St. Louis is HBO's next big dark comedy. Jason Bateman, David Harbour, and Linda Cardellini star in a twisted love triangle that spirals into murder.
Inspired by a New Yorker article about a dentist's murder trial, the show explores the quiet desperation of middle age in the Midwest. Expect sharp dialogue, uncomfortable laughs, and a slow-burn mystery that exposes the rot beneath the suburban lawn.
Stream our rom-coms here for lighter love triangles!
10. Crystal Lake (Peacock)
Genre: Horror / Drama Premiere: TBD 2026
Bryan Fuller (creator of Hannibal) brings his distinct visual style to the Friday the 13th universe. Crystal Lake is a prequel series starring Linda Cardellini as Pamela Voorhees, exploring the tragic events that created one of horror's most iconic slashers.
This isn't just a body count show; it's a psychological drama about a mother's grief and madness. Drawing inspiration from 70s paranoia thrillers, it promises to be scary, sad, and stylish. Horror fans are already buzzing about this fresh take on Camp Crystal Lake.
9. VisionQuest (Disney+)
Genre: Sci-Fi / Superhero Premiere: Late 2026
Paul Bettany returns as the White Vision in this spiritual successor to WandaVision. Helmed by Star Trek: Picard showrunner Terry Matalas, the series follows the android's journey to regain his humanity and memories.
The return of James Spader as Ultron is the headline here. The dynamic between the "father" and "son" promises Shakespearean drama with laser beams. It aims to be more cinematic and serious than recent Marvel offerings, focusing on themes of identity and soul.
8. Blade Runner 2099 (Prime Video)
Genre: Sci-Fi / Cyberpunk Premiere: TBD 2026
Ridley Scott produces this live-action series set 50 years after the events of the last film. Michelle Yeoh stars as Olwen, a replicant nearing the end of her lifespan, who teams up with a young fugitive played by Hunter Schafer.
Visually, this will be the most stunning show of the year. It expands the neon-soaked, rain-drenched world of Blade Runner, exploring new corners of its dystopian future. It tackles heavy philosophical questions about artificial intelligence and what it means to be alive.
7. Big Mistakes (Netflix)
Genre: Crime Comedy Premiere: TBD 2026
Dan Levy creates and stars in his first series since Schitt's Creek. He teams up with Rachel Sennott (Bottoms) to play two incompetent siblings who accidentally get entangled with organized crime.
The premise screams "anxiety comedy." Levy's gift for awkward family dynamics combined with a high-stakes crime plot is a recipe for success. It promises to be hilarious, stressful, and filled with the kind of specific character work that made the Rose family icons.
6. The Testaments (Hulu)
Genre: Dystopian Drama Premiere: April 2026
Based on Margaret Atwood's Booker Prize-winning sequel, The Testaments picks up 15 years after The Handmaid's Tale. Ann Dowd returns as the terrifying Aunt Lydia, who is now a central figure in the crumbling regime of Gilead.
This series shifts the focus to the next generation of women fighting for freedom. It promises to be a tense, political thriller that provides closure to the saga while expanding the world. It’s essential viewing for anyone invested in the fight against Gilead.
5. Love Story (FX)
Genre: Anthology / Romance / Biopic Premiere: February 2026
Ryan Murphy turns his lens on American royalty. The first season of this anthology series focuses on the tragic, glamorous romance of John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette.
Expect high fashion, intense media scrutiny, and a heartbreaking ending. Murphy excels at reframing historical tabloid stories with empathy and style. It will be the watercooler show of the spring, sparking debates about privacy and the price of fame.
4. The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins (NBC)
Genre: Mockumentary / Sports Comedy Premiere: February 23, 2026
NBC is looking for its next The Office, and this might be it. Tracy Morgan stars as a disgraced football legend trying to rehabilitate his image, with Daniel Radcliffe playing the earnest filmmaker documenting the train wreck.
The pairing of Morgan's chaotic energy and Radcliffe's weird, wonderful commitment is genius. With Tina Fey producing, the jokes will be fast and furious. It’s a redemption story that promises to be equal parts heartwarming and absurd.
3. Dutton Ranch (Paramount+)
Genre: Western / Drama Premiere: TBD 2026
The Yellowstone saga continues. With Kevin Costner gone, the focus shifts to the powerhouse duo of Beth Dutton (Kelly Reilly) and Rip Wheeler (Cole Hauser). They are joined by legends Annette Bening and Ed Harris in a battle to save the ranch.
This isn't just a spinoff; it's the next chapter of the most popular show on TV. Expect more cowboy melodrama, stunning Montana vistas, and Beth Dutton destroying her enemies with a single sentence. It’s comfort food for fans of the Taylor Sheridan universe.
2. Spider-Noir (MGM+)
Genre: Superhero / Noir / Mystery Premiere: TBD 2026
Nicolas Cage finally gets to play Spider-Man in live action. Set in 1930s New York, Cage plays an older, grittier Spider-Man Noir who works as a private investigator. Brendan Gleeson joins as the villain in this black-and-white stylized series.
This is a passion project for Cage, and his eccentric energy is perfect for the pulp setting. It promises to be a unique entry in the superhero genre, blending detective tropes with web-slinging action. It’s dark, moody, and undeniably cool.
1. A Knight Of The Seven Kingdoms (HBO)
Genre: Fantasy / Adventure Premiere: January 18, 2026
Taking the top spot is the next Game of Thrones prequel. Based on George R.R. Martin's Dunk and Egg novellas, this show offers a lighter, more intimate look at Westeros. It follows the adventures of a hedge knight, Ser Duncan the Tall, and his squire, the future King Aegon V Targaryen.
Why is it number one? Because it brings the magic of Westeros back to its roots: great characters on a journey. It lacks the dragons and world-ending stakes of House of the Dragon, focusing instead on chivalry, friendship, and the small folk. It’s the "Mandolorian" of the Game of Thrones universe—a smaller story that captures the heart of the franchise.
Conclusion
2026 is shaping up to be a monumental year for television. We are seeing a shift towards established IPs taking bold creative risks—from Nicolas Cage in a noir Spider-Man show to a sitcom version of The Big Bang Theory. There is a palpable excitement for stories that blend nostalgia with fresh perspectives.
Whether you are tuning in for the high-stakes drama of Dutton Ranch or the laughs of Reggie Dinkins, there is something on this list for everyone. So, mark your calendars, update your subscriptions, and get ready to binge.
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FAQs
1. What is the most anticipated show of 2026? A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms is widely considered the most anticipated due to the massive Game of Thrones fanbase and the beloved source material.
2. Is Yellowstone ending? The main Yellowstone series has concluded, but the story continues in the spinoff Dutton Ranch, focusing on Beth and Rip.
3. Will Spider-Noir be in black and white? Yes, reports indicate the series will utilize a black-and-white aesthetic to match the 1930s noir tone.
4. Is The Testaments a direct sequel to The Handmaid's Tale TV show? Yes, it serves as a continuation, bridging the gap between the original series and the events of Atwood's sequel novel.
5. Where can I watch Little House on the Prairie? The new reboot will be available exclusively on Netflix.
6. Is Dan Levy's new show a comedy? Yes, Big Mistakes is described as a crime comedy, similar in tone to Search Party or The Flight Attendant.
7. Who is playing Elle Woods in the prequel? Newcomer Lexi Minetree has been cast as the teenage Elle Woods.
8. Is VisionQuest part of the MCU? Yes, it is a canonical entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, following the events of WandaVision and Agatha All Along.
9. Will the Big Bang Theory cast return for the Stuart spinoff? Kevin Sussman (Stuart), Lauren Lapkus (Denise), and Brian Posehn (Bert) are confirmed, with potential cameos from the original main cast.
10. How can I support independent storytelling? You can support creators by donating to their projects, like That Love Podcast, or simply by sharing their work.
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