Introduction
Start your 2026 watchlist with these top new Netflix shows confirmed or expected to debut next year, featuring star-studded casts, intriguing storylines, and a variety of genres from drama to sci-fi and thrillers. This early guide highlights the most anticipated new and returning English-language Netflix series for 2026. If you’re interested in films, be sure to check out our previously published article on anticipated Netflix movies for 2026. Here, we focus solely on the confirmed or expected Netflix 2026 series set to captivate audiences worldwide.
The Altruists
Overview: Dive into this gripping crime drama exploring the FTX collapse, revealing themes of ambition, financial scandal, and idealism turned crime. Filmed in Vancouver from July to November 2025, The Altruists brings a sharp portrayal of the downfall of a modern-day financial empire.
Cast Highlights: The series stars Julia Garner as Caroline Ellison and Anthony Boyle as Sam Bankman-Fried, supported by a talented ensemble cast.
Production: Produced by Higher Ground Productions and Vox Media, The Altruists promises a powerful narrative that examines the human elements behind a notorious scandal.
The Undertow
Overview: This UK drama focuses on a woman’s life upended by the return of her husband’s estranged twin, a tense and emotional journey set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Scottish Highlands. Jamie Dornan takes on dual roles as twins Adam and Lee Walsh.
Supporting Cast: Mackenzie Davis, Gary Lewis, Iain De Caestecker, and Claire Brown enrich the complex narrative.
Production: Created by Complete Fiction and wiip, the series’ release is undated with a potential shift from 2025 to 2026.
Man on Fire
Overview: An intense 8-part adaptation inspired by A.J. Quinnell’s novel and the iconic 2004 film, Man on Fire follows an ex-mercenary on a quest for vengeance while protecting a friend’s daughter.
Filming Locations: The series boasts international filming across Mexico, Brazil, and Italy, creating a rich and diverse setting.
Cast: Starring Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Billie Boullet, Alice Braga, Scoot McNairy, and Bobby Cannavale, the series faces the exciting challenge of meeting the high expectations set by the original movie.
East of Eden
Overview: This limited series adapts John Steinbeck’s classic novel, exploring a vivid family saga of trauma, love, and betrayal within a rich historical context.
Production: Filming in New Zealand from October 2024 to March 2025, the series is helmed by Zoe Kazan as showrunner and writer, with Jeb Stuart serving as executive producer.
Cast: Featuring Florence Pugh as Cathy Ames, alongside Christopher Abbott, Mike Faist, Joseph Zada, Ciarán Hinds, and Tracy Letts, East of Eden promises a captivating dramatic experience.
Thumblite
Overview: Silicon Valley meets thriller in Thumblite, a tech-centric drama centered on corporate crisis and espionage.
Creative Minds: Created, showrun, and directed by Scott Z. Burns, with executive producers including Rosamund Pike, Scott Galloway, and Michael Ellenberg.
Cast & Tone: Rosamund Pike stars as Estelle Donald, the incoming CEO of tech giant Deinde. The series blends the political intrigue of House of Cards, the high stakes of Billions, and the tension of Michael Clayton.
Production Status: While no confirmed start date is set, the show aims for a Fall 2025 launch.
The Boroughs
Overview: Set in a retirement community teeming with otherworldly creatures, The Boroughs is a sci-fi series featuring an ensemble of unlikely heroes in a Stranger Things-esque world.
Producers: Executive produced by The Duffer Brothers of Stranger Things fame.
Cast: Stars Bill Pullman and Geena Davis, with filming underway late 2024 at Netflix’s Albuquerque production hub.
Trinity
Overview: Following BBC’s Bodyguard, Trinity is a political thriller delving into conspiracy and power, centered on a female naval officer entwined with the Secretary of Defense amid escalating intrigue.
Production: Filming occurs July to October 2025, targeting a Summer 2026 release. The showrunner and creator is Jed Mercurio.
Cast: Features Richard Madden, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Marcia Gay Harden, JD Pardo, and Kirk Acevedo.
Stranger Things: Tales from ’85
Overview: This animated series picks up between Stranger Things seasons 2 and 3, expanding the timeline and universe with fan-favorite characters.
Art Style: A unique blend of animation inspired by Arcane and Jurassic World, revealed with excitement at the Annecy Film Festival.
The series faces the challenge of continuing the legacy following the explosive finale of Stranger Things season 5, and fans are eager to dive back in.
Legends
Overview: A UK crime drama inspired by true stories, Legends chronicles British Customs officers infiltrating drug gangs, navigating undercover operations filled with moral dilemmas and high stakes.
Production: Filming completed mid-2025 in the UK.
Cast: Led by Aml Ameen, Jasmine Blackborow, Tom Burke, Steve Coogan, Johnny Harris, and Tom Hughes.
The Kennedys of Boston
Overview: This prestige biopic series traces JFK’s early life and political ascent, based on Fredrik Logevall’s JFK: Coming of Age in the American Century.
Production: Filming commences January 2026 in London, with Eric Roth as creator and writer, and Sam Shaw as showrunner.
Executive Producers: Peter Chernin, Jenno Topping, Eric Roth, Sam Shaw, and Anya Epstein.
Cast: To be announced, with high expectations for post-2026 release and awards potential.
Closing Thoughts
While this list highlights many standout Netflix 2026 series, countless more exciting shows are on the horizon. Which new Netflix shows 2026 are you most looking forward to? Share your thoughts and start building your watchlist now. Explore our full 2026 Netflix series preview calendar for the definitive guide to all upcoming releases.
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