5 Must-Watch TV Shows for 2026 So Far

Our entertainment expert breaks down the best new and returning series to stream this year

Mar. 28, 2026 at 6:05am

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With the year already a quarter over, our entertainment expert Malcolm McMillan has identified the 5 best TV shows of 2026 so far. The list includes a Marvel superhero series, a comedy about a famous novelist, a 'Game of Thrones' prequel, a high-stakes medical drama, and a financial thriller - all streaming on major platforms like Disney+, HBO Max, and more.

Why it matters

These 5 shows represent the cream of the crop in television so far this year, with several already generating major Emmy buzz. The diverse range of genres and streaming platforms showcases the depth and quality of the current TV landscape, providing viewers with must-see entertainment options across multiple genres.

The details

The shows on the list include 'Wonder Man', a Marvel series about a struggling actor with superpowers; 'Rooster', a comedy about a best-selling novelist who gets roped into a teaching gig; 'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms', a 'Game of Thrones' prequel series; 'The Pitt', a high-stakes medical drama set in a Pittsburgh trauma center; and 'Industry', a financial thriller about a new hedge fund shaking up the London banking world.

  • The 2026 TV season is already a quarter over.
  • The shows on the list have all premiered new seasons in the first few months of 2026.

The players

Malcolm McMillan

An entertainment expert who has been covering the latest in streaming shows and movies for Tom's Guide since 2023.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II

The star of the Marvel series 'Wonder Man'.

Steve Carell

The lead actor in the comedy series 'Rooster'.

Peter Claffey

The star of the 'Game of Thrones' prequel series 'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms'.

Noah Wyle

The lead actor in the medical drama series 'The Pitt'.

Myha'la Herrold

The star of the financial thriller series 'Industry'.

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What they’re saying

“Despite this being a Marvel show, the superpowers that Simon has are almost secondary to the show's story. In my 'Wonder Man' review, I posited that this show doesn't even need the Marvel element to work; it's really a story about a burgeoning friendship that is torn apart by a shocking betrayal, and how the people involved ultimately put the pieces back together.”

— Malcolm McMillan, Entertainment Expert

“The pedigree of the writing and acting talent makes this comedy special. 'Scrubs' and 'Ted Lasso' (and so many more incredible comedy shows) creator Bill Lawrence is the creative mind behind the show, and he hasn't lost a step.”

— Malcolm McMillan, Entertainment Expert

“This show is 'ER' meets '24,' and that has proven across 27 episodes (to date) to be a recipe for success. Season 1 was my best show of 2025 and cleaned up at the Emmys last year, and I expect season 2 to be the favorite for Outstanding Drama Series once again this year.”

— Malcolm McMillan, Entertainment Expert

“Back in 2024, I declared 'Industry' season 3 the best show on HBO. Then it took a year off and 'The Pitt' stole its crown. Now, it's back and going head-to-head with the reigning Emmy winner, and having watched all of season 4, I think this thriller has the edge.”

— Malcolm McMillan, Entertainment Expert

What’s next

The shows on this list will continue to generate buzz and awards season attention as the year progresses. Fans will be eagerly awaiting news on renewals, Emmy nominations, and any updates on future seasons.

The takeaway

This diverse lineup of must-watch TV shows in 2026 demonstrates the incredible depth and quality of the current streaming landscape. From superhero dramas to prestige comedies to gripping medical thrillers, there is something for every type of viewer to enjoy across the major streaming platforms.