As 2025 comes to a close, Americans are tuning in to a wide mix of buzzy new series, major franchise spin-offs, and highly anticipated returning favorites across Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Max, Prime Video, and Paramount+. Sci-Fi, Thriller, and Drama continue to dominate viewer interest, with several big premieres and season returns shaping the end-of-year streaming landscape.
Streaming continues to dominate TV viewing in the United States, and every month brings new shows that get Americans talking. Whether you love drama, comedy, true crime, or action, there are many fresh releases to enjoy in 2025–26.
Here are the best new TV shows to watch right now across major streaming platforms in the U.S.
Key Points
- Streaming platforms release new shows weekly
- True crime and thrillers remain top categories
- Comedy and romance continue rising in popularity
- U.S. viewers watch more streaming than cable
- TikTok clips boost new releases instantly
Highly Anticipated New Shows (Late 2025 / Early 2026)
Pluribus (Netflix)
A new sci-fi thriller from Breaking Bad creator Vince Gilligan. The story explores a virus that creates a blissful hive mind, leaving the few unaffected survivors isolated. One of the most talked-about new releases.
The War Between the Land and the Sea (Disney+)
An environmental Doctor Who universe spin-off focusing on the Sea Devils rising against humanity. Blends sci-fi storytelling with ecological themes.
The Abandons (Netflix)
Kurt Sutter’s Western drama starring Gillian Anderson and Lena Headey. Set in 1850s Washington, the series follows two families fighting for survival on a lawless frontier.
Landman (Paramount+)
A drama starring Billy Bob Thornton set amid Texas’s high-stakes oil boom.
A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms (HBO/Max)
A new Game of Thrones prequel set for early 2026.
Returning Favorites & Buzzworthy Seasons
Stranger Things – Final Season (Netflix)
Volumes 2 and 3 drop this month—Volume 2 on Christmas Day and the series finale on New Year’s Eve. One of the biggest TV events of the year.
Fallout Season 2 (Prime Video)
Premiering December 17, the post-apocalyptic hit returns to explore New Vegas and introduce iconic creatures like the deathclaws.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians Season 2 (Disney+)
Released December 10, the new season follows Percy into the Sea of Monsters to retrieve the Golden Fleece.
Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft Season 2 (Netflix)
Lara searches for ancient African relics before a tech visionary can weaponize them.
Emily in Paris Season 5 (Netflix)
Returns December 18 with more drama, romance, and Parisian style.
The Pitt: Season 2 (HBO/Max)
The popular medical drama returns in January 2026.
Shrinking Season 3 (Apple TV+)
The comedy series continues with new episodes.
The Wheel of Time Season 3 (Prime Video)
The epic fantasy series progresses with more world-building and character arcs.
New December Premieres Worth Watching
Man vs. Baby (Netflix)
Rowan Atkinson stars in this comedy about a penthouse caretaker who unexpectedly ends up caring for an infant.
Spartacus: House of Ashur (Starz)
A spin-off imagining a world where the villainous Ashur survives and builds his own violent empire.
The Copenhagen Test (Peacock)
A new sci-fi thriller premiering December 27 about an analyst who discovers his brain has been hacked, allowing unwanted access to his senses.
Members Only: Palm Beach (Netflix)
A new glamorous drama dropping in December.
Made in Korea (Hulu)
A K-drama–inspired series gaining early buzz.
Earlier 2025 Standouts Still Worth Watching
Some of the year’s best-reviewed shows remain popular heading into 2026:
- Severance (Apple TV+) – acclaimed sci-fi drama
- The Pitt (HBO/Max) – intense medical series
- Dying for Sex (FX on Hulu) – powerful and emotional miniseries
Where to Find More Information
- Rotten Tomatoes – premiere calendars and critic scores
- IMDb – trending shows like Pluribus and The Abandons
- YouTube Previews – official trailers and best-of lists from Top10 FilmZone & Rotten Tomatoes TV
Top Returning TV Shows Americans Are Watching (December 2025 – Early 2026)
1. The Reckoning
A controversial documentary exploring celebrity investigations and public allegations. The show is trending because of online discussion and viral clips, especially among younger viewers.
2. Holiday Hearts (Romantic Series)
This new seasonal romance series offers simple storylines, emotional themes, and cozy holiday viewing—perfect for winter streaming. The show grew popular as Americans looked for comfort entertainment during colder months.
3. Metro Crime Files
A dramatic crime series focused on major U.S. cities and investigative reporting. Viewers say it offers gripping storylines and intense mystery elements that keep audiences engaged episode after episode.
4. Blue Horizon (Adventure Series)
A high-budget action series that blends science, mystery, and futuristic storytelling. The show appeals to fans of sci-fi, action, and global adventure genres.
5. Laugh Track Live (Comedy)
A lighthearted comedy series featuring short sketches, guest comedians, and social-media style humor. The format makes it easy to watch even in short sessions.
Viewer Trends for 2025
Americans are choosing shows that are:
- easy to watch
- emotionally uplifting
- suspenseful and dramatic
- family friendly
Streaming patterns show that many viewers prefer comfort series at night and on weekends.
Why Streaming Dominates TV in the U.S.
Streaming platforms release new episodes faster, adapt content to viewer demand, and offer on-demand access—making them more convenient than traditional cable TV. Younger viewers especially prefer digital platforms.
Final Outlook
Expect more romance, true crime, and action series throughout 2025–26 as streaming services compete to keep U.S. subscribers engaged with fresh releases every month.
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