Netflix is gearing up for a remarkable year in 2026, building on the success of 2025, which saw the platform break records with hits like KPop Demon Slayers and the conclusion of iconic series such as Stranger Things. As the streaming giant prepares to unveil its new slate, fans and industry experts alike are speculating on what will emerge as the biggest hits of the year.
In 2025, KPop Demon Slayers fundamentally changed Netflix’s metrics for original content, officially surpassing Red Notice to become the most-watched Netflix movie of all time. On the television front, the year marked the end of Stranger Things with a massive series finale, while Squid Game wrapped its story with its third season, and Wednesday continued to captivate audiences with its second season. Additionally, Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein set a new standard for prestige horror on the small screen.
Returning Favorites and New Adventures
The 2026 release schedule is designed to build on this momentum by bringing back some of Netflix’s most beloved series. Fans are eagerly awaiting the return of high-concept science fiction with the second season of 3 Body Problem, alongside the continuation of the live-action Avatar: The Last Airbender. Most significantly, the year will see the official conclusion of The Witcher, as Geralt of Rivia (Liam Hemsworth) embarks on his final journey across the Continent in a massive series finale.
While these returning favorites are expected to secure millions of views, other releases are poised to shatter Netflix’s viewership records. Here are the top ten anticipated hits of 2026:
10. Little Brother
Directed by Matt Spicer, Little Brother is a high-profile comedy featuring John Cena and Eric André. Cena plays a disciplined real estate agent whose life is turned upside down by his eccentric younger brother, portrayed by André. With producers Ruben Fleischer and David Bernad on board, the film targets a broad demographic with its high-stakes sibling rivalry and character-driven humor. Supporting actors Michelle Monaghan and Christopher Meloni add further prestige to the project.
9. Swapped
Skydance Animation continues its partnership with Netflix with Swapped, a vibrant adventure directed by Nathan Greno. Known for his work on Disney’s Tangled, Greno brings a proven track record of family-friendly hits. The film features Michael B. Jordan and Juno Temple as the voices of a woodland creature and a high-flying bird who magically swap bodies. With comedic veterans like Tracy Morgan and Cedric the Entertainer in the supporting cast, Swapped is set to be a major viewership driver for families.
8. Agatha Christie’s Seven Dials
The mystery genre’s enduring popularity is expected to boost the viewership of Agatha Christie’s Seven Dials, a series adaptation from showrunner Chris Chibnall. Known for Broadchurch and Doctor Who, Chibnall brings a modernized perspective to the beloved crime author’s work. The series features a prestigious cast, including Martin Freeman and Helena Bonham Carter, and is likely to maintain a high ranking on Netflix following the success of recent mystery hits like the Knives Out trilogy.
7. Emily in Paris (Season 6)
Following the global engagement of its fifth season, Emily in Paris returns for a sixth season. The romantic journey of Emily Cooper (Lily Collins) remains a critical asset for subscriber retention. Showrunner Darren Star has expanded the setting from Paris to broader European locations, propelling the series to the No. 1 spot in 24 countries. Season 6 is expected to explore a Mediterranean backdrop, maintaining its status as a dependable viewership driver.
Feature Films and Anthologies
6. Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man
The feature-length film Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man serves as the definitive conclusion to the Shelby family saga. Cillian Murphy returns to his iconic role, bolstered by his Oscar win for Oppenheimer. Director Tom Harper has cast high-profile actors Rebecca Ferguson and Barry Keoghan, ensuring the film’s success.
5. Enola Holmes 3
Enola Holmes 3 continues the Holmes family legacy with Millie Bobby Brown reprising her role as the young detective. The film moves the action to Malta, where Enola must solve a new case. Director Philip Barantini promises to maintain the series’ charm and energetic pacing.
4. Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story
The fourth installment of Ryan Murphy’s true-crime anthology, Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story, is poised to dominate the cultural conversation. Ella Beatty stars as Lizzie Borden, with Charlie Hunnam, Rebecca Hall, and Vicky Krieps in supporting roles. The series focuses on its first female subject, ensuring viral engagement.
3. Bridgerton (Season 4)
The fourth season of Bridgerton shifts its focus to Benedict Bridgerton (Luke Thompson) and introduces Yerin Ha as Sophie Baek. The series remains a significant asset for Netflix, with showrunner Jess Brownell promising a visually spectacular narrative. With its massive social media footprint, Bridgerton is a top contender for the biggest television hit of the year.
Expanding Universes and New Franchises
2. Stranger Things: Tales From ’85
The world of Hawkins expands with the animated anthology Stranger Things: Tales From ’85. Set during a freezing winter in 1985, the series follows the original group as they investigate a paranormal mystery. Executive produced by the Duffer Brothers and showrunner Eric Robles, the series captures the nostalgic energy of classic cartoons while maintaining the franchise’s horror elements.
1. Narnia
The most ambitious project on the 2026 Netflix schedule is the start of the Narnia film series, written and directed by Greta Gerwig. This production marks the first adaptation of C.S. Lewis’s fantasy world in 16 years. Gerwig begins the saga with The Magician’s Nephew, featuring a star-studded cast including Daniel Craig, Meryl Streep, and Carey Mulligan. With a significant investment and an exclusive theatrical IMAX release, Narnia is positioned as a historic cinematic event and the frontrunner for the biggest Netflix hit of 2026.
As Netflix continues to innovate and expand its content offerings, these anticipated releases reflect the platform’s strategy to captivate diverse audiences and maintain its position as a leader in the streaming industry.
