Apple TV
Most Anticipated Streaming Shows of 2026
The streaming landscape is poised for an exciting year in 2026, with highly anticipated shows returning for new seasons and fresh series making their debut. Apple TV+ leads the charge with a diverse lineup of programming, ranging from acclaimed dramas to engaging comedies, all featuring a mix of returning stars and new talent.
Returning Favorites on Apple TV+
Fans of Ted Lasso can rejoice as the beloved series returns for its fourth season, continuing its blend of comedy, drama, and sport. This season, Jason Sudeikis reprises his role as Ted Lasso, alongside returning cast members Hannah Waddingham as Rebecca Welton and Brett Goldstein as Roy Kent. Notably, the new season introduces a women's team, adding an exciting dimension to the storyline. Filming took place in Kansas City, Missouri, and viewers can expect seven new actors to join the ensemble.
Another returning favorite is The Last Thing He Told Me, which has been renewed for a second season. Based on Laura Dave's novel, the series stars Jennifer Garner as Hannah Hall, who navigates an unexpected relationship with her stepdaughter Bailey while searching for her missing husband. The new season, set to premiere on February 20, features Owen after a five-year time jump. David Morse and Augusto Aguilera return, with Judy Greer and Rita Wilson joining the cast. Aisha Tyler, however, will not be returning for this season.
Hijack also makes a comeback with a gripping second season starring Idris Elba. This time, the series involves a tense train hostage crisis, with new episodes starting on January 14. Among the new faces is Christian Näthe, adding further intrigue to the storyline.
New Additions to Apple TV+
Apple TV+ is set to welcome new stars, including Anya Taylor-Joy and Elle Fanning. Taylor-Joy will headline the miniseries Lucky, based on Marissa Stapley's book. The series, which filmed through July, also stars Nicole Kidman and Thaddea Graham, with the first three episodes releasing on April 15. Subsequent episodes will air every Wednesday until May 20.
Elle Fanning joins the Apple TV+ family in a yet-to-be-announced project, further expanding the platform's roster of talent.
The streaming service continues to explore diverse themes with Pluribus, Vince Gilligan's first series since 2015. Starring Rhea Seehorn as Carol Sturka, the series delves into themes of individualism and artificial intelligence.
Ongoing Dramas and New Seasons
Several ongoing dramas are set to return with new seasons. Monarch: Legacy of Monsters, continuing the narrative from the 2014 film, premieres its second season on February 27, with new episodes airing every Friday.
Season three of Tehran, featuring Niv Sultan as Tamar Rabinyan, will premiere on February 27. The new season brings Hugh Laurie into the cast, joining Glenn Close who appeared in the previous season. Meanwhile, Shrinking, starring Jason Segel, is set for its third season premiere on January 28, with Damon Wayans Jr. returning for more comedic exploits.
In Your Friends & Neighbors, season two will return with ten new episodes on April 3, featuring a new addition to the cast, James Marsden. Jonathan Tropper remains the showrunner, ensuring continuity for fans of the series.
Expanding Horizons with New Projects
Apple TV+ continues to expand its horizons with a variety of new projects. Down Cemetery Road, a thriller adaptation of Mick Herron's work, stars Ruth Wilson and Emma Thompson. Smoke, a psychological crime drama inspired by true events and the Firebug podcast, premiered in June 2025 and stars Taron Egerton and Jurnee Smollett.
Another intriguing addition is Dope Thief, directed by Ridley Scott and based on Dennis Tafoya’s novel. The series stars Brian Tyree Henry and Wagner Moura, promising a gripping narrative.
The Murderbot adaptation, based on Martha Wells’ novels, is also set to captivate audiences, continuing the trend of bringing acclaimed literary works to the screen.
With a robust lineup of returning favorites and new ventures, Apple TV+ is gearing up for a dynamic year in 2026, offering a wide array of content to satisfy diverse viewer preferences.