Apple TV

Anticipated Apple TV Shows Set for 2026 Release

Apple TV is gearing up for an exciting lineup of shows set to premiere in 2026, with several fan-favorite series returning and new projects debuting. This year's slate promises a diverse range of genres and star-studded casts, ensuring a captivating viewing experience for audiences worldwide.

Returning Favorites and New Seasons

Among the most anticipated series is the return of Ted Lasso for its fourth season. The beloved comedy-drama, which has captured a global audience with its heartwarming narrative, will continue to follow the journey of the titular character, Ted Lasso, played by Jason Sudeikis. This season, viewers can expect the introduction of a women's team, bringing fresh dynamics to the storyline. Filming took place in Kansas City, Missouri, and fans will be delighted to see the return of Hannah Waddingham as Rebecca Welton and Brett Goldstein as Roy Kent, alongside seven new actors joining the cast.

Hijack, starring Idris Elba, will also be back with its second season, shifting the action from the skies to a train hostage crisis. The new season premieres on January 14, with new episodes released every Friday. Christian Näthe is among the new cast members joining the series.

Monarch: Legacy of Monsters, continuing the saga from the 2014 film, will premiere its second season on February 27. It promises to delve deeper into the monster universe, thrilling fans with its epic storytelling.

Another returning series is Tehran, with its third season set to premiere on February 27. This season sees the addition of Hugh Laurie to the cast, joining returning actors like Niv Sultan, who reprises her role as Tamar Rabinyan. The show continues to deliver high-stakes espionage drama, keeping audiences at the edge of their seats.

New Additions to the Apple TV Lineup

Notable new entries in the 2026 lineup include Lucky, a miniseries based on Marissa Stapley's book, starring Anya Taylor-Joy. The series wrapped filming in July and features Nicole Kidman and Thaddea Graham. The first three episodes will release on April 15, with subsequent episodes airing every Wednesday until May 20.

Additionally, Your Friends & Neighbors returns for a second season on April 3, offering 10 new episodes. James Marsden joins the cast, with Jonathan Tropper serving as the showrunner, promising a continuation of the engaging narrative that captivated audiences in the first season.

Award-Winning Series and New Developments

Among the critically acclaimed series returning is The Last Thing He Told Me, based on Laura Dave's novel. Season 2 will start on February 20, featuring Jennifer Garner as Hannah Hall. The storyline explores Hannah's unexpected relationship with her stepdaughter Bailey as they search for Hannah's missing husband, Owen. This season picks up five years after the events of the first season. The returning cast includes David Morse and Augusto Aguilera, with new additions Judy Greer and Rita Wilson. However, Aisha Tyler will not be returning for this season.

Drops of God, inspired by a manga series, made waves by winning the International Emmy Award for Best Drama Series in 2024. Its second season is set to release on January 21, continuing to explore the intricate world of wine and family legacy.

Record-Breaking Releases and Future Prospects

The much-talked-about drama series Pluribus set a new global drama series launch record, surpassing the viewership of Severance season two. It became the most popular series in the US, UK, Canada, and Brazil. The first season, consisting of nine episodes, will conclude with its season finale on December 26. A second season is already in development, indicating the show's strong reception and Apple TV's commitment to delivering high-quality content.

With such a robust lineup, Apple TV's 2026 offerings are poised to captivate a wide range of viewers, maintaining its position as a significant player in the streaming industry. As these series roll out, audiences can look forward to a year filled with compelling stories and exceptional performances.

Note: Diary of a Wimpy Kid is available on Disney+, not Apple TV.