Series
Winter TV Preview for 2025-2026: Upcoming Shows and Highlights
This winter marks the conclusion of the beloved series "Stranger Things" while also welcoming a variety of returning and new shows that promise to captivate audiences. With an array of genres and exciting storylines, the 2025-2026 winter TV season is brimming with entertainment options.
Returning Favorites and Series Conclusions
The winter TV schedule sees the return of several popular series. "Industry" enters its fourth season, continuing its exploration of the high-stakes world of international finance. "Bridgerton" returns for its fourth season, with new episodes scheduled for January 29 and February 26 on Netflix, promising more of its signature romance and drama.
Fans of the dystopian series "Fallout" can anticipate its second season on Prime Video, debuting on December 16. "Dark Winds," another fan-favorite, is also making a comeback, although specific release dates are yet to be announced.
After years of thrilling mysteries, "Stranger Things" will conclude its journey this winter with its fifth and final season on Netflix. Additionally, "Heated Rivalry" continues its run on HBO Max, keeping viewers engaged with its complex storytelling.
New Premieres and Spin-offs
This season introduces several new shows, each bringing something unique to the table. "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms," a prequel to "Game of Thrones," will premiere on January 18 on HBO, offering fans a return to the world of Westeros. Meanwhile, "Star Trek: Starfleet Academy" will launch on January 15 on Paramount+, focusing on the next generation of Starfleet officers and featuring Rebecca Quinn in a leading role.
Disney+ is set to debut "Wonder Man," adding to its growing lineup of Marvel series. Additionally, "The Abandons," releasing on December 4 on Netflix, promises to deliver a thrilling new narrative.
Other noteworthy new releases include "Tinsel Town" on November 28, featuring Kiefer Sutherland as Bradley Mack, a washed-up action star, and "Champagne Problems" on November 19, directed by Mark Steven Johnson and starring Minka Kelly and Tom Wozniczka.
Seasonal Specials and Holiday Highlights
The holiday season brings a selection of festive specials and themed programming. "A Chuck E. Cheese Christmas," releasing on November 27, follows a pizza mouse on a heartwarming holiday mission. "Family Guy" will deliver a Christmas special on November 28, offering a parody of traditional Hallmark festive movies.
Other holiday-themed releases include "Jingle Bell Heist" on November 26, directed by Michael Fimognari, and "My Secret Santa," debuting on December 3, starring Ryan Eggold and Tia Mowry under the direction of Mike Rohl.
Michelle Pfeiffer stars in "Oh. What. Fun," set to release on December 3, adding a touch of star power to the holiday lineup.
Upcoming Drama and Action Series
For those seeking drama and action, winter 2025-2026 offers a range of options. "The Housemaid," directed by Paul Feig and starring Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried, will premiere on December 19. "Percy Jackson and the Olympians" returns for its second season on December 10 on Disney+, continuing the adventures of its titular hero.
Crime drama enthusiasts can look forward to the fourth season of "Will Trent" on January 3, 2025, on ABC, with Rodriguez returning as the director. "The Rookie" also makes a return with its eighth season, premiering on January 6 on ABC.
In January 2026, "A Thousand Blows" will release its second season, featuring Stephen Graham. "Dead Man's Wire" and "Primate" are also set to debut on January 9, with "28 Years Later: The Bone Temple" following on January 16.
"Shetland" continues its long-running success with its tenth season, starting January 1, 2026, while "The Pitt" returns for a second season on January 8 on HBO Max.
With such a diverse array of content, from returning favorites to highly anticipated new series, the winter TV season of 2025-2026 is set to offer something for every viewer. Whether it's the conclusion of beloved series, the excitement of new adventures, or the warmth of holiday specials, audiences can look forward to an engaging winter of television.